Zwilling J. A. Henckels AG is a German knife-maker based in Solingen, Germany. It is one of the largest and oldest manufacturers of kitchen knives for domestic and professional use, having been founded in June 1731 by Peter Henckels. The brand's namesake was Johann Abraham Henckels (1771–1850), who renamed the brand after himself under his leadership. J.A. Henckels is one of the leading manufacturers of chef's knives.
Henckels knives are manufactured in several ways. A large selection of the knife range are forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel, which is cold-hardened to improve stain resistance. Most of Zwilling's knives are manufactured in Solingen, Germany, while some, including Henckels branded knives are made in Spain and China.
