As the name suggests, a bushcraft knife is a knife mainly used for outdoor functions. When preparing for a camp in the wilderness, a bushcraft knife is a must among other tools to complete your survival kit.
Your bushcraft knife always needs to be sharp to serve you in activities like skinning, cutting, slicing, etc
Frequent sharpening is not a difficult and expensive job. It also needs no expensive or special instruments or materials.
Knives are an important survival tool that you can carry along with you. Since the dawn of time, a bushcraft knife has been used as a survival tool in the wilderness.
Different Types Of Knife Sharpeners
A knife loses validity without sharpening tools. Knife sharpening tools easily bring a dull or blunt knife back to its shape. Below are the types of sharpeners that will smoothen the process for you:
Using sandpaper to sharpen your dull knife is an inexpensive and successful way too. To make the process more convenient, try adding the sandpaper to an old mouse pad.
When using this method, Use medium-grit sandpaper, probably about 800, till you work it up to fine-grit sandpaper. This approach can also be used to put final touches on your blade after you sharpen it with a whetstone.
Whetstone or Sharpening Stone
Perhaps the most common knife sharpening tool used is the whetstone. Whetstones usually come in a rectangular block made from ceramic or natural sharpening stones.
Whetstones work on an incredibly dull knife to efficiently extract unwanted material from the blade. The best part about this knife sharpener is that it fits well with other steel items like razors and scissors as well.
Electric Knife Sharpeners
Electric knife sharpeners usually come in a rectangular box shape, with three slots to position the blade of the knife in. Because of its quick operation, it is easy to use an electric sharpener.
However, the disadvantage of using this knife sharpening tool is that you have less control over the knife, and compared to the other tools, it’s a little bulky. In addition, electric sharpeners work with kitchen knives more accurately than hunting, survival, or tactical knives.
A handheld sharpener quickly and easily sharpens a dull knife back to its original, flawless cutting shape much like an electric sharpener.
Handheld sharpeners, however, have a small slot for sticking the blade of a knife in. The positive thing about the knife sharpening tool is its compact size, which makes it easy to bring everywhere you go.
Serrated Knife Sharpener
This knife sharpening method is designed primarily for the sharpening of knives with serrated edges. For most traditional sharpeners, it will be difficult to sharpen serrated knives, because they can damage the serrated blades.
It’s really different to sharpen a straight blade by sharpening a serrated knife. For optimum effectiveness, each serration needs to be individually sharpened and this is what your serrated knife sharpener will do.
Whereas the name says ‘sharpening steel’, this is simply a misnomer because this tool just hones the knife’s tip.
With that, sharpening steels only have to be used to retain the knife but not to sharpen an already rusty one. The steel is long and narrow.
A knife hone also works for sharpening steels. This knife sharpening method hones the knife’s tip, as the name implies, but it can’t sharpen a dull knife.
Knife hones are made of stone or steel. They work by scraping tiny quantities of material to sharpen it off the blade.
So, How Do you Sharpen Your Knife?
With so many various methods available to get the job done, simplicity conquers all. The aim when sharpening a knife is simply to sharpen the knife.
This is achieved by scraping metal from a dull blade tip. Blades are getting dull due to the metal rolling over at a micro-level. When we sharpen the blade, we strip the rolled metal leaving a good crisp edge behind it.
These step by step tips will equip you with the knowledge and skills that will truly restore your knife’s sharpness in the simplest way possible:
Look for a flat or even surface that doesn’t get affected by exposure to oil. If you are outside a chopping board is best.
With the coarse facing up, put the stone on the surface. Apply oil on the stone
With the coarse side facing up, put the stone on the surface. Apply oil on it (stone)
To achieve the right bevel angle, eliminate the metal from the bevels of the knife to create a clear edge. A bevel is the part of the blade that points down to the cutting edges.
For a knife with a flat bevel, lay the knife flat on the surface or stone and turn it slightly to the cutting edge, to get the right bevel angle.
While applying pressure with your fingertips, push the bushcraft knife away from the sharpening block.
Push the knife through the sharpening stone as you push the knife forward, to cover the knife’s entire length.
Boost the handle of the knife towards the knife’s tip to maintain its contact with the sharpening tool.
Continue to push the bushcraft knife across the sharpening stone while maintaining full bevel contact.
As the metal is extracted from the bevel, noticeable scratches or polished areas may begin to appear. An appropriate technique will reveal the metal will be extracted from the whole bevel. If you don’t see this, then change the angle as required.
The metal should be separated from the bevel equally and fully.
Rotate the cutting edge against your side to sharpen the other side of the bevel
Now repeat tips 5, 6, 7, and 8 for that side too.
When the metal is extracted from the bevel a thin metal foil is produced where the bevels meet. This will be moved as the sharpening cycle interchanges from the effect of your effort. This is called a burr. By running your thumb through the bevel, you’ll feel it on the ridges.
In the mid-1990s the term “tactical knife” was put together to describe the appearance of a knife with some characteristics. A tactical knife is a knife intended for use in serious circumstances, with one or more military or martial features. The terms “tactical knife” and “fighting- knife” are often used interchangeably in common usage. Though, the tactical knife is primarily intended to serve as a utility tool, not a weapon.
Brief History About Tactical Knives
The first tactical knife to be issued by the Marine Corps in the 90s was a bayonet. They, later on, issued the tanto blade, Benchmade knife after experiencing a drawback and impracticality with the bayonet. Since then, it was the kick-off of the tactical knife. Now they finally had a portable and flexible tool that only needed one hand to operate. Militaries in the U.S. and German received similar folding knives and fixed blade knives amidst World War II.
The tactical knife became popular amongst troops. Within a short while, manufacturers emerged with primary interests of using the knife for game hunting rather than warfare. A variety of companies crafted a wide array of tactical knives formerly famous as hunting knives. Today, companies will tend to market a utility knife, fighting knife or tactical knife with no specific distinction between the tools. For that reason, it is always up to the consumer to be conversant about the qualities and variants of various knife styles and brands.
What To Consider When Buying A Tactical Knife
When searching for the type of knife, you want to decide whether you need a specific knife as part of your EDC for hunting reasons or a general knife for self-defense purposes. so it is necessary to define the type of knife depending on the activities you plan to conduct
This will help to narrow down which types of knives may be suitable for your desires:
This option is often misunderstood. A switchblade knife is literally a knife, where a forcing mechanism or spring action opens the blade. Although this type of knife has a terrible reputation since it is lightweight and simple to use it can be a useful tool to have on hand.
A supported open knife can be a folding knife, switchblade, or even a knife with a butterfly. An aided-to- the open knife is a knife where the blade is not immediately ready to use and needs some sort of force to reach the blade. When taking a look at this aspect, make sure that if you need that feature, the assisted open can be done using one hand.
Compared with the traditional folding knife, a fixed blade knife is stronger and bigger in both thickness and weight. As part of the arrangement, a fixed blade does not fold in and is typically covered with a sheath. This category will vary in size from medium to large blades. In this category, there are also many knives that are built with specific goals in mind, particularly for survival purposes. For example, this category of knives may have choices such as gut hook knife, skinners, and regular use camping knives that are capable of cutting anything from animals to paracord for gutting and skinning purposes.
A kind of knife where the knife is a single piece of metal, where the blade is spread out through the handle. This is among the fanciest knife types and the best lasting as it is made from high-quality metal, and because it will never become loose or fall off as opposed to knives with a separately attached handle and blade.
A folding knife is simply a small pocket knife, which can be folded away. Folding knives are among the most flexible choices available on the market because of their ability to be single-bladed, dual bladed, smooth, or tightened and come in a wide range of sizes that still fit into your bag. Of course, several types of multi-tools are called folding knives, for example, the Swiss Army knife, so the classification is a very broad one.
The handle matter is just as critical as the blade itself. In this field, there are a number of things to remember. For beginners, you want to test whether or not the handle is hollow. The knife’s backside is called a pommel. Although many knives are advertised as having hollow pommels as again since they are lightweight, this can be a drawback. Most people use the knife handle as a sort of hammering tool.
So if you normally use your knife that way, you definitely want to go for a solid handle for your satisfaction. In general, weight is significant when looking at a handle. If you want a lighter knife, a hollow handle might be perfectly appropriate for you but a heavier knife is preferred by many people. The grip fit is another aspect to look at regarding the handle. There are many components to the grip. The first is the form and contour of the handle as a whole. Any knife of high quality will have a slightly contoured grip area to direct the fingers where to grip them.
This is vital as it enables you to become confident and able to use it without any damages or screw-ups. This finger contour may also have thumb-studs elevated to more support With the grip getting stronger. The material used for the handle is another way to look at grip. Any handle of materials based on rubber should’ve just slightly textured surfaces with tiny bumps to give the tool a better grip. With a thicker knife handle, you do get more control over the knife’s movement. Having a heavier handle can also be helpful, as a sturdy blade requires a sturdier handle.
Blade Size / Form
The size of the blade is important for many reasons. If you go for a broader knife, you will need to get a concealed carry permit in certain states. Also, the size of the blade is important when considering the tasks with the knife that you plan to perform. Whereas many people seem to believe that bigger or larger is often better, when speaking of blades, it is not valid. If you need to move the knife into tight spaces to cut a pinch of a rope or chain, a large blade will place you at a huge disadvantage than a small or medium-sized blade. Most people believe the wider the blade, the deeper the blade can cut. Although this may be valid in some cases, The extent at which the blade may cut is dependent on the metal’s sharpness and consistency, not the blade’s size itself.
In regards to shape, options include smooth or serrated edge choices which are commonly seen. Serrated is a decent choice for cutting tougher materials that just need a little extra strength and can work as a saw-like tool, but a seamless blade is still an appropriate flexible alternative for a variety of applications. The trick is to accept the blade point as a determining factor. The endpoint should be a solid straight dot or drop point. Although an angled or and round tip may look nice, this kind of blade point is less than suitable for use with the blade in real life. more to that, a double-edged blade might be useful for certain purposes, but mostly, It is needless to bring equipment every day. Many people would forget that they have a double blade and unintentionally cut themselves on the blade tip, so just skip this option unless you have a particular application for a double-bladed knife.
The final factor to look at when purchasing a tactical knife is the materials issue. Although there are alternatives made of titanium, steel is the most widespread and reliable choice for any weapon. Naturally, steel is the toughest metal in the world and over time it won’t crack, rust, or get warped. Many high-quality knives are coated in an additional PVD coating for added durability and strength, which allows them to last much longer and in great shape.
While you search for a knife, choosing something other than steel for the blade makes no sense. The handle could be made from different materials like specially treated rubbers or even the same metals as that of the blade. Investing in quality over affordability is critical for this item because you want it to last a long time.
How To Care For Your Tactical Knife
Endeavor to clean and wipe your tactical knife with a dry towel after use. Always keep your knife in use to avoid rusting. Seek to avoid/limit the use of alkaline substances like acids, soap, sour fruits, and salted products on your knife. These substances can cause rapid harm to the locking parts of the knife, the gaskets in the aluminum alloy frame. Standard sharpening wheels can be used to sharpen the blades. For a saw blade, you’ll need to use a special blade sharpener to avoid chipping. Wipe your knife dry before storage, and keep it in a dry spot.
Benefits Of A Tactical Knife.
Anyone from a contractor, a craftsman, a military man, a wood-worker or even an outdoor man can make a lot of use of a tactical knife. Below are some of the benefits :
A tactical pocket-knife isn’t a tool until it’s time to become one. From other people on the street or in the wild, from wildlife, and more-bringing one of these can support you in cases where non-violence is not effective. You can only use it as a challenge, and it will do its job.
There ‘s certainly no better tool than a pocket knife to carry along on a camping or hiking trip. You won’t like getting in a machete or a big survival knife that you can’t fit in your backpack eventually. Instead, you want something that fits in your pockets or luggage, but still, be useful when it’s needed.
Preparing and handling food
This sounds dangerous, but a tactical knife goes a long way in the kitchen by acting as a folk,spoon and knife.
A tactical knife can help cut anything from wire,wood,paper and much more. It makes the experience safe and effortless
A tactical pocket knife can act as a workshop. Its ability to make clean and neat cuts makes it worth it.
The ability of a pocket knife to trim down and tear clothes easily is special, especially useful to people in the fashion or retail industries. You’re not going to have to use some bigger or more risky tool. Instead, you can do it all with a pocket knife and prevent any danger.
Right from cutting separate a dog from a stuck leach to cutting through a stuck seat belt during the rescue. A tactical knife is a lifesaver
If you can’t find a pair of scissors or razor, a tactical knife can do the shaving just perfect
Honing other Knives
The spine of this knife can be used to hone other knives just like honing steel. Awesome huh?
Being one of the aggressively upcoming hobbies, knife throwing can be fine with a perfect tactical pocket- knife.
A tactical knife made of stainless steel can never wear out or rust. It lasts for a lifetime regardless of whether it touches water or fluid.
The other benefits include:
Versatility and Portability
Cleaning beneath fingernails
Grab yourself one and enjoy the benefits
You don’t know when a knife in the pocket could end up being useful to you. So don’t hesitate to get one. Having a tactical knife, especially a pocket knife is always easier. You don’t want to be caught unawares.
Whatever the intent or requirement you’ll be giving it, carrying one will never be a bad option. So get yourself now. What are you waiting for?
Both the Federal and State Governments are responsible for regulating knife laws in the United States. If you choose to go for a knife you can take anywhere and everywhere; you should opt for one that looks useful and harmless. Otherwise, you might have to go through the knife laws of the state or municipality you live in or want to visit.
The Federal government establishes those that border around knife ownership and use while other laws bordering around knife use are state regulations. Consequently, the knife use laws range from state to state.
Since knife laws in the US do not require you carrying knives for criminal intent to be flagged illegal, you have to get a full grasp of the knife laws that govern each state.
Knives illegal by state
Here, there is a freedom of purchase and ownership of many and different kinds of knives. Most legal restrictions apply to only Bowie knives. These knives are large, hilted, and single-edged. All similar knives or instruments thought to be legally identical – by the court – with Bowie knives are also deemed illegal in the state.
In Alaska, knives have frequent usage in hunting, fishing, and many other outdoor industries. Hence, knife owners in the state benefit from a favorable set of knife laws. Alaska gives municipalities room to pass knife regulating laws only if the enacted rules have semblance with State laws.
So, cities and towns can decide on where and when knife sales are or not permitted. For the most part, most of these town residents hold rights to ownership of several kinds of knives, including gravity knives and switchblades.
There are no knife restrictions in Arizona. The state laws allow anyone 21 years and older to own and carry any knife. There are no blade length restrictions either too.
It is one of the most knife-friendliest states across the US. However, local and municipal governments still hold rights to regulating laws bordering around knife length.
There are a host of restrictions to owning and carrying knives in California. Daggers, dirks, ballistic knives, and stilettos are highly prohibited. Only concealed carry is allowed for big knives.
You can carry around knives in public and private colleges but not with a length more than 2.5″.
Colorado falls between both divides of knife-restrictive and knife-friendly. In the state, some knife types such as switchblades and gravity knives are illegal irrespective of their lengths. Asides from this, all other knives are considered legal. That said, laws concerning possession of knives such as balisong and identical types aren’t clear cut.
Although ownership and possession of knives – including dangerous and exotic types – are entirely legal and can be carried or displayed on the owner’s property, strict laws are guiding carrying knives in public places.
Characteristics of the knife, including blade lengths, define the legality of blades, rather than whether they are revealed or concealed.
The knife rules of the state are well-stated and clear cut. Considering that Delaware is a coastal area, knife laws allow for the legal ownership, possession, and carrying off many knife types both in and around the home. Possession and carrying of gravity knives and switchblades are, however, illegal even when in the owner’s home or property. While concealed carrying is highly limited, knife owners enjoy open carry rights.
Residents can only carry large knives concealed after obtaining a deadly weapons permit.
The knife laws of the state allow a considerable amount of concealed carrying legal up to the level of court interpretation. There is room to conceal-carry knives like multitools and box cutters because of their use as working tools.
Most laws are knife-friendly. The only exception is ballistic knives, which are banned from possession and carrying.
It is a welcoming state for knife owners as there are only a few restrictions and very natural laws surrounding knife ownership and possessions.
Its knife legislations allow for the possession and carrying of whatever knife types, whether open or concealed even up to 5″. However, possession or use of larger knives usually requires a permit.
Its laws exist in the grey areas between knife-carrying rights and knife laws. Pocket knives, as well as other single blades, are legal to carry or possess irrespective of the blade length.
Open or concealed carry of others like gravity knives, switchblades, balisongs, and ballistic knives are illegal. There is a glaring omission of laws surrounding possession or carrying of a double-edged diver’s knife.
Knife ownership in Idaho is unlimited. Hence, people can buy, sell, or possess whatever kind of blade type they choose to have. There is room for open carrying of almost all knife types to save for in public places like prisons, schools, and some government buildings.
Restrictions are more ruling on concealed knives. The maximum blade lengths are 4″ and 2.5″ for smaller knives such as pocket knives when on school property.
Knife laws in Illinois aren’t as clear as what obtains in most other states. What is considered in most legal arguments is the intent, as well as length and construction features.
The laws were arguably put this way to reduce crimes relating to gang-related stabbings in Chicago.
Blades over 3″ are considered illegal when carried with the intent of injuring or killing a person. It is also unlawful if they are used to affect an individual’s wellbeing.
Indiana’s knife laws might not be as knife-friendly as those of Georgia or Alaska. Still, they are just free enough to allow ample freedom of possession and carrying of different knife types. Most knife types, including dangerous ones like switchblades not approved in other states, are legal here.
That said, municipalities like SouthBend and Westfield maintain their band on carrying knives in public places like parks.
The knife laws in Iowa are mostly favorable to knife owners and enthusiasts. The only exception is ballistic knives for which possession or carrying is banned even in the owner’s home or property.
Asides this knife type, individuals, can own or carry whatever knife type at home. For public carrying, there are no restrictions regarding open carry asides ballistic knives.
For concealed carrying, however, there are layers of legality to be observed first.
It is a very knife-friendly state. Almost all knife types, including long blade lengths like those in swords and machetes, are allowed. Possession and carrying of open or concealed knife type of virtually any blade length are also legal.
The state even permits ex-cons to possess and carry any knife type too.
The restrictions of the state on concealed carrying is vague. It is friendly for individuals who do not have any issues with ownership and open carry. However, it might prove more problematic for individuals to prefer concealed carrying.
Its knife laws permit ownership of almost all types of knives. Nearly all of its restrictions border around ownership and carrying of switchblades. Peace officers are the only exception to the rule. They can carry switchblades only if the use is as a rescue knife.
Individuals are allowed to carry a wide range of knife types in Maine openly. There are; however, restrictions guiding concealed carrying.
Some are outrightly banned. The banned ones include switchblades, gravity knives, and other automatic knives.
The legality of knife ownership and carrying in the state is dependent upon both intent and knife type. There is freedom to own or carry Ballistic knives and other knife types outrightly banned in most other parts of the country.
Although its laws on ownership aren’t strict, they come down heavy on individuals who choose to use their knives outside the home. Some knives are considered illegal to manufactured or sold in Massachusetts. That said, individuals can still own them.
Individuals can own several knife types in Michigan, save for few exceptions. The exceptions include switchblades, gravity knives, and other automatic knives. Interestingly, ownership of balisongs is legal.
Almost all knife types are legal in Minnesota. The exceptions are switchblades and metal knuckles. The intent is also up for legal arguments as far as knife ownership, and carrying is concerned. Some knives may be considered dangerous and hence, illegal depending on specific circumstances.
The state is mostly free and accommodating to knife owners. However, it places some restrictions on concealing broad blade types. There are restrictions to ownership by minors and ex-cons.
Residents can own almost all knife types, with switchblades the only exception. They are mostly illegal to possess, buy or sell, save for ones 3″ or shorter.
Switchblades, like in most other states, are illegal in Montana. However, there is room for recognized blade collectors to have them under specific laws.
Concealed carrying of knives is limited to only blades of 4″ or less. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule in certain areas within the state.
For the most part, concealed carrying according to the state’s knife laws is forbidden. There is, however, almost no restriction to ownership or open carry of any knife type.
The state laws allow for ownership and open or concealed carrying of most knife types. It even allows for concealed carrying of the likes of dirks and daggers. Machetes are the only exceptions.
It is entirely legal to own or carry any knife type in New Hampshire. Whether open or concealed carrying, it is completely legal.
The state’s laws ban carrying of knives for illegal purposes. It also places the burden of proving the good intent of knife-carrying on the knife carrier. Even pocketknives are no exception to this law.
Most knife types are legal in the state. The only exceptions are balisongs, switchblades, and all similar blades. Open carrying of large knives is also permitted. Concealed carrying is not allowed in most areas.
Possession of folding knives that can one-handed is considered illegal. And this includes even pocketknives.
Individuals maintain ownership rights to almost all knife types in North Carolina. This includes rights to open carry even switchblades, gravity knives, and large knives outlawed in many other states. The only exception is ballistic knives.
It is legal to own all blade types in North Dakota. By default, individuals can own knives irrespective of blade lengths, size, and method of deployment.
All knives can be considered dangerous, depending on the discretion of the presiding judge.
Residents can carry openly or concealed large knives, switchblades, and other automatic knives.
It is legal to carry switchblades concealed in Oregon. For the most part, there are no restrictions on knife ownership.
There is a ban on residents’ownership or possession of switchblades and other automatic knife types.
Individuals are allowed to own almost all knife types in Rhode Island. Metal knuckles and World War I trench knives are the only exceptions.
Residents can own all knife types in South Carolina
Open and concealed carry are entirely legal for any knife type in South Dakota.
Switchblades and even blades with lengths longer than 4″ are legal to carry in Tennessee.
There are a lot of restrictions bordering carrying of knives -whether open or concealed – in public.
Utah’s laws are liberal towards ownership of guns. Individuals can own daggers, dirks, a balisong, or even a butterfly knife.
The state’s laws are accommodating to ownership of all knife types. The only exception to this rule is a switchblade with a blade length of 3″ or longer.
The state’s knife laws allow ownership of a wide range of knife types. The only exceptions are switchblades, ballistic knives and throwing stars.
The knife laws permit ownership of different knife types, including automatic knife types. Concealed carry is, however, illegal for knife types like dirks and daggers.
The knife laws in West Virginia place no limitations on knife ownership. It is, however, illegal to carry knives with blade lengths 3.5″ and longer without a concealed carrying permit.
The knife laws of Wisconsin allow residents to own knives of all types.
The knife laws of the state allow ownership of all knife types. There are, however, strict restrictions on concealed carrying.
If your goal is to identify the best tactical knife, then you are in luck! Whether you aim of buying is for self-defense, rescue mission, hunting or combat, it’s essential to choose the ideal knife for you. There are tons of tactical knives out there. So it’s easy for a first-time buyer to make the wrong choice.
Some people also believe these set of knives are outdated. But it will surprise you to know that they are among the most versatile pieces of weaponry out there. There are numerous purposes a tactical knife can serve than a gun can’t.
Have you thought about why soldiers move around with tactical knives even they are carrying the most sophisticated guns? That’s because there are numerous purposes this knife can serve. So if you aim to splash the cash on the, then this best tactical knife review will make your day! Read to learn more and be able to make an informed decision.
Best Tactical Knife Review
1. Smith & Wesson Border Guard for Tactical, Survival, and EDC
Name top brands that produce the best tactical knife, and Smith & Wesson comes to mind. The quality of this knife is out of the world. It’s also suitable for different applications. Whether you like getting involved in outdoor survival missions, a collector or find yourself in positions where you have to respond to various crisis, Smith & Wesson is a wise choice.
You can make use of this knife, whether you are right or left-handed. Another highlighted feature is that it comes with exceptionally serrated blades which make it an ideal outdoor survival weapon. This knife also comes designed with high-grade black carbon steel, which makes it sturdier and powerful enough to cut through materials of various strengths.
The pocket clip feature not only makes it a breeze to carry around. It also promotes smooth and quick access, which is an excellent emergency capability you won’t find in many knives at this price point. The blade is also a bit long, measuring 4.4 inches in length. It also weighs 8.8 ounces, which is a bit heavy but not a deal-breaker.
The grip comes built with textured inserts, which are highly gritty. And this, together with the thumb and finger grooves, gives the knife an excellent grip. So, you can cut through whatever you want without the knife slipping off your grip.
The knife is large and solid
Liner lock to secure the blade
Long-lasting black oxide carbon stainless steel
Aluminum handle featuring Trac-Tec inserts
Ambidextrous thumb knobs to ensure smooth handling
The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops rank as the best tactical folding knife on the market for obvious reasons. As usual, the blades come designed with high-quality oxide carbon stainless steel. So it’s safe to say that the knife is well-built and would likely stand the test of time.
This folding knife is also a breeze to carry around not only because of its ability to fold to size. It features a pocket clip and finger flipper that makes it super easy to access. The handle makes this knife remarkably comfortable in hand, thanks to its finger indentations and textured material.
However, the blade length of this knife is a bit shorter than the Smith & Wesson Border Guard EDC knife earlier mentioned. But it still does the job it’s meant to do satisfactorily. The knife is pretty lightweight, and thus its easier to carry around. The handle size makes it ideal for users with large and small palm sizes. It fits in hand perfectly well, and you can move around with it in your pocket, conveniently.
So, whether you are a first responder, knife collector or a survivalist, know you can count on the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife. It’s versatile, sturdy, and convenient to use. You can even open the blade with one hand with ease in any emergencies.
Blade is sharp
The blade is a breeze to release and park
Small enough to carry around in one’s pocket
Simple design without glass breaking pointed end that can leave a hole in your pocket.
3. MTech USA Ballistic MTA845BK Spring Assist Folding Knife
This MTech is a highly rated folding knife and has what any best tactical knife should have. First off, it’s portable and suitable for intended users with low budget. However, being affordable is not the only feature that sets this knife apart.
The knife comes designed with a thumb stud which makes it super easy to deploy with just one hand, making it a wise choice for emergencies. The belt cutter and glass breaker are a superb addition to this knife, making it ideal for EDC and a plethora of applications.
There is no time to waste trying to reposition this folding knife in your hand to open it. It also comes designed with a unique locking mechanism that keeps its extremely sharp blades firmly in place. With this feature, you don’t have to worry about getting hurt by your knife. It’s not like other poorly made blades that can accidentally flip out on their own.
The MTech MTA845 is one of the most reliable and durable folding knives out there. Being incredibly sharp makes it super easy to cut through a variety of items with ease. The 3.75 inches long blade comes produced with a high-grade stainless steel material, which is the reason the knife can retain its sharpness even after prolonged usage.
Thumb stud for easy deployment
Pocket clip for easy and safe transportation
Added deep clip makes it super easy to carry around
Here is another top brand from MTech, a proud producer of quality and affordable knives. The MTech MX8054 as called is a fixed blade knife that comes built with everything you require in a knife considered ideal for camping and survival training or conditions.
The 440HC stainless steel black tanto blade is a feature worthy of note with regards to this blade. It gives it the desired razor-shape edge, needed to cut through a wide variety of materials. The carbon content added to the blade also enables it to retain its sharp edges longer than anticipated.
This knife comes with everything that makes a tactical knife a weapon in one’s hand. When you hold one of this monster fixed blade knife, any attacker would think twice before coming closer. The design alone looks scary, while the 51/2 inch blade can do a lot of damage when used on anyone, including animals.
So if you are interested in splashing the cash on the best tactical fixed blade knife, then try out the MTech MX8054. The G10 handle of this knife and the entire design makes it extremely attractive. The handle design also makes it a breeze to use in any situation, whether wet or dry.
The knife is extremely sharp
Unique handle design for superior grip
Blade features saw back design to handle delicate materials
Ideal for self-defense, camping, and survival due to blade sharpness and knife’s ruggedness.
The CRKT M16 is unarguably the best tactical survival knife for the money. There are a plethora of tactical pocket knives out there, but the M16 stands out from the crowd. First, it comes designed with a tanto-shaped blade made of the 8Cr14Mov stainless steel material of excellent stiffness. The hardness of the blade, on the other hand, is 58-59 HRC rated, which makes it suitable for a lot of applications, including kitchen use.
The CRKT M16-14SFG comes coated with a titanium nitride finish, which makes it resistant to corrosion and scratch. The ergonomic design makes it possible to have a firmer grip irrespective of the environmental condition you find yourself. The Veff serrations is a noteworthy feature. It’s the reason the CRKT M16-14SFG cuts through seat belts, ropes, electric cables, branches, and others easily.
This knife’s finish makes it highly attractive and ideal for users that like showing off. The titanium nitride finish on the blade makes it non-reflective and eye-catching. The handle comes designed with high-quality G10, which is lightweight, has a solid grip texture, and looks incredibly aggressive. The automated liner safety is another incredible addition. It’s the reason you can open the knife with one hand, effortlessly.
Sturdy frame lock
Easy to grip G10 scales
Well-built folding pocket knife
Ideal for special forces usage
The blade’s edge is incredibly sharp out of the box
If you need a budget folding knife that retains its blade’s sharpness after extended use, the SOG Trident Tactical Opening Knife TF1 – CP is for you. The partially serrated AUS-8 Steel blade rated HRC 57 – 58 is not the only feature that sets this folding knife apart. Its 3.75 inches long blade Cryogenic Heat Treatment is a laudable process. It also comes coated with titanium nitride, a unique process that many knives at this price point didn’t go through.
The above treatment processes also combine to give the SOG Trident Tactical Knife a unique characteristic. They are the reason for improved longevity, scratch, and rust resistance the knife has. This brand of the tactical knife is also ideal for many situations such as camping, survival, hiking, EDC, and many more! It is also by far the best tactical rescue knife on the market.
This knife also originates from the United States of America and comes slapped with a limited lifetime warranty. The non-slip glass-reinforced nylon (GRN) handle is the reason for the knife’s excellent grip. And as a consequence, it is convenient for individuals with large and small hands to use comfortably. It also has a closed length of 4.75 inches; overall length is 8.5 inches and weighs 3.68 ounces.
Large-sized EDC knife
The Digi-grip variable pattern on the handle promotes a coarser grip
Patented arc actuator enables it to lock stronger and release with ease.
Ambidextrous design makes it ideal for right and left-handed users.
The Cold Steel Recon 1 is a knife that is ready to tackle any task you throw at it. The knife is lightweight, a feature that makes it super easy to transport. It also comes designed with a non-slip G10 handle uniquely contoured and scalloped. The stainless steel blade of this knife has also been vacuum-heated and sub-zero-quenched. And these treatments help to improve performance. It’s also the reason the knife can handle diverse tasks better than others at this price point.
The Recon 1 also uses a special thumb disc that makes it a breeze to open. The pocket clip is another highlighted feature of the knife. It is sturdy and makes it possible for you to carry the knife comfortably, wherever you want to go. The knife’s blade comes produced with the highly-rated Japanese AUS 8A stainless steel material, whose thickness is 3.5mm.
The black Teflon finish on this knife not only makes it tougher but serves as an incredible added feature. The finish makes the blade highly rust resistance. So you can use it under any condition without fear of ending up with a corroded blade and blunt edge.
The black Teflon finish also serves as a super lubricant to the blade, making it a breeze to cut through harder materials with little to no friction. Being a black finish also means that you won’t experience light reflection when using this knife under a very sunny condition.
Highly-rated stainless blade
Non-reflective tactical knife
Uniquely contoured non-slip handle
Clip-point blade for better cutting performance
Features a sturdy pocket clip and thumb disc for ease of use
Kershaw has been blessing us with a wide range of knives and tools since 1974. So, speaking of experience, the company does have what it takes to produce a top-quality knife that can stand the test of time. The Blur Glass Breaker Folding Knife shows how much the company has improved with regards to the quality of their offerings.
This brand is one of the best EDC folding pocket knives on the market. The knife’s partially serrated blade can cut through the toughest of materials most knives can’t, and does it with great ease. This knife is also ideal for diverse situations. These include emergencies, fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities that might require moving with a knife for protection and other reasons.
The Kershaw Blur has also received accolades for its incredible performance when used for chores at home and other tactical purposes. So, it’s one budget-friendly but versatile knife that can offer you excellent value for your hard-earned money. And thanks to the Trac-Tec insert on the handle, you won’t have problems using this knife in any weather condition. Also, the SpeedSafe assisted opening feature makes it possible to deploy the blade with one hand, which is why this knife is considered an ideal option for emergencies.
Reversible pocket clip
Textured grip making it non-slippery
Features a glass breaker for emergencies
The serrated edge is incredibly sharp out of the box
Limited lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects
Gerber is a popular figure in the knife industry. They have also been in the business of producing quality gears and knives since 1939. And their products have been targeted at athletes, outdoor lovers, law enforcement agents, and survivalists.
Now looking at the Gerber LMF II, you will understand why Gerber deserves a place in the hall of fame for knife makers. It comes with a 420HC steel material, which is the reason the blade can hold its edge well. This fixed blade survival knife has also been field-tested to determine whether it can withstand rigorous and rugged use. It did perform brilliantly and showed why having it is a great addition, particularly in emergencies.
So, if you are seeking the best tactical knife that has the power to withstand abuses, then the Gerber LMF II will make a wise choice. The blade is not only sharp but sturdy, as it can cut through the fuselage of an aircraft when there is an emergency.
The knife is also made in the United States of America and comes in diverse colors. But if you are a law enforcement agent who is always involved in classified operations and tactical missions, the black color is ideal for you.
The Kershaw Emerson CQC-7K is another incredible tactical knife. It should also interest you to know that this reasonably priced pocket knife was the winner of the 2014 knife show.
Apart from being extremely beautiful, the Kershaw Emerson is a reliable knife. It comes with a 3.25 inches tanto blade designed with the high-grade 8Cr14MoV steel material for improved performance. And this makes it sturdy enough for slicing and piercing anything that crosses its path. These include plastic materials, the opening of packages, self-defense against aggressive animals and humans, cutting cords, and making fire kindling when necessary.
The combination of satin and stonewashed finish also contributes to making this knife irresistible. Another highlighted feature is the wave-shaped feature that promotes the instant opening of the blade once pulled out of one’s pocket. So, this is a pocket knife you can count on when you find yourself in a situation where you have to defend and attack.
In addition to its quick deployment, the CQC-7K features a handy pocket clip. The clip makes it easy to carry around as it offers multiple carry options. In other words, you can place the knife with the tip facing sideways, downwards, or any direction of choice.
Irresistible blade finish
Budget-friendly pocket knife
High-grade and performance steel
Razor-sharp blade for cutting diverse materials
Unique wave-shaped opening system for quick deployment
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, law enforcement, first responders, and military personnel
The 810 Contego Reverse Tanto Blade is another fantastic and elegant looking knife. It features a CPM-M4 stainless steel blade that has some toughness and can withstand abuses. The blade is wear-resistant and as a result, can retain its unique appearance for an extended period. The G10 handle is also not only durable. It also wades off moisture and maintains its shape even in extreme temperatures.
This knife comes specially decorated for tactical application. Its design and features make it ideal for such use. It has a reverse tanto blade, which allows you to apply maximum force to the tip, thus making it a breeze to cut and pierce through a wide range of materials. So, if you are seeking a well-built tactical knife, then the Contego 810 is a wise choice. But keep in mind that you cannot use it as an EDC knife.
The grip of this knife is extremely secure, and it also features a clip that has good retention – it’s never too tight and inconveniencing. The glass breaker also looks like it would last for an extended period. Check the video testing done by Benchmade, and you will understand why.
Built for tactical uses
Has a limited lifetime warranty
Strong and ambidextrous axis lock
Durable and high-quality CPM-M4 steel blade
The handle is large yet comfortable to hold and use
The Redpoint is a knife that can serve multiple purposes. You will find it quite useful for rescue and tactical operations. With a reputation for safety and performance, it is undoubtedly a knife to add to your collection. The Safe-Spin deployment technology makes it possible to open or close the blade with one hand. With excellent glass and cutting features, you have no issues breaking and slashing your way out of difficult situations.
The 2-3/4 inches partially serrated 420HC blade comes covered with titanium. And this makes the knife non-reflective even when used on an extremely sunny day. The high-quality steel material also makes it possible for the blade to retain its sharpness after prolonged uses. It’s also rust resistance and cuts through objects with high strength.
The large-sized blade release button is another added feature that makes this knife a breeze to use. This button makes it possible to open the blade even if you are wearing an over-sized glove. The knife also comes with a lifetime warranty, which is an indication of how much confidence the manufacturer, Buck Knives, has on its product. The company has been in business since 1902, so they should know how to make a top-notch knife.
The rubberized handle holds up well
Safe-spin deployment technology for easy opening
Contoured all-weather handle for secure and safe grip
Seatbelt cutter and glass breaker makes it ideal for emergencies
The SOG is a famous knife maker, and the company seems to have a better understanding of what users want. Made with the needs of users in mind, the SOG Fixed Blade is a tactical knife that ticks all the boxes that a highly-rated tactical knife should possess. It’s by far the best tactical Bowie knife on the market. It is also incredibly versatile. It serves as a complete rescue knife, bushcraft and backpack knife, all in one product.
This SOG Fixed Blade knife is a handy hunting tool. So, don’t forget to take it along with you on your next hunting trip. You will find it incredibly useful when you find yourself stranded in the woods. And with this knife in your hand, you can wade off any attacker, be it animal or human, provided the human attacker isn’t with a gun.
The Molle compatible sheath attachment also makes it much easier to transport this knife around. There is a unique handle on this knife that is super grippy. The knife also comes assembled with AUS-8 stainless steel cryogenically hardened for improved strength and performance. The weight is also perfect for a knife at this price point. It is not too heavy or too light in hand.
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choose Tactical Knife
By now, you must have realized how vital a tactical knife is for your safety and ease of living. Many of them do serve multiple functions and thus, are a great addition to one’s collection of tools.
But not all knife brands are the same, even amongst tactical knives. They have varied length and tons of other features. Some may also be great for EDC and not for tactical tasks. So before you splash the cash on a new knife, there are a plethora of things you need to consider. These tips might sound simple but can determine how happy you will be with your purchase. So you need to take out time to read this section to be able to make an informed decision.
Desired blade shape
The fixed blade and folding tactical knives come with varied blade shapes. So just because two knives are both tactical, means they must have the same blade shape. You need to compare the different forms and choose the one you find to be ideal for the intended use.
Blade shape examples for tactical knives are drop point, clip point, modified clip point, modified drop point, tanto blade, and modified tanto blade. These are not just ordinary names. They influence the usability and performance of the knife.
However, the tanto and drop point blades, including their modified alternatives are two of the most popularly used knife blade shapes. These blades are ideal for outdoor use and can tackle a wide variety of tasks thrown at them. So, these knife shapes are a popular option for outdoor and urban survival kind of chores. The tanto, as well as the modified tanto, seems to be ideal for thrusting function. They are also not a wise choice for woodsman kind of chores.
Automatic or manual opening knives
You also need to consider if an automatic or manual opening knife will be ideal for you. The automatic opening knife is quite a breeze to use, as it opens with the push of a button. But the knife opening you end up choosing is not entirely your decision to make. You need to check and be sure that the state or area you wish to use it allows civilians to move around with an automatic folding knife.
If they do not permit such, then you will be better off with the assisted opening tactical knife type. But if you can manipulate the knife to open quicker manually, then the manual opening knife won’t be a bad idea.
Type of folding knife style
Before you buy a tactical knife, you need to decide the primary uses of the knife. Do you intend to use it for rescue or survival operations? What is your primary aim? Know that both knives have different blades built to ensure safety and ease of use in different situations.
For instance, the rescue knife has blunt ends or tips and is ideal for the first responder. You can use such knives to cut someone loose when trapped by the seatbelt or cut someone’s clothes to save their lives, without damaging the person’s skin.
But the survival type of tactical knives has pointed and sharp ends for penetrating different materials. The edge of these knife types can also be single or double.
Knife size to choose
Another thing you need to consider before choosing a tactical knife is the size of the knife. You can either choose an extremely small or large size knife. But that depends on several factors such as the ease of transportation and intended use.
Now, focusing on the ease of transportation, a smaller-sized knife will be more conducive if you intend to carry it in your front pocket. But if you want to move around with a knife placed in your back pocket, a small or larger model will be ideal.
The Handle design of the knife
You need to also consider the size, design, and shape of the handle of your knife of choice before splashing the cash. There is a need to be critical when checking the handle of the knife you wish you acquire.
Check if the handle is ergonomically designed, feels comfortable when gripped tightly, feels smooth in your palm, and has a non-slip surface or ideal for all weather conditions.
Different Type of Uses of a Tactical knives
Tactical knives come designed for a range of purposes. These include camping, hunting, or everyday cutting needs, but they are useful as self-defense tools. All knives, technically speaking, are ideal for self-defense.
Some of the uses of tactical knives are:
Out in the wilderness, a knife serves different purposes; it is a weapon, cutlery, and an all-around tool. Here are a few things you can use the knife for:
To cut lines/ropes
To cut sticks for fire or to clear nearby shrubbery.
You can use it to scrap the bark of the trees to get fuel to make fire.
When you go fishing, it can be used to catch and skin fishes.
If the zipper of your tent is stuck, you can cut your way out.
Chuck at trees to get Kindle and fuel for a fire.
If hunting animals is your thing, then you will find the tactical knife quite useful. You might need it for gutting, skinning and other functions.
Military / paramilitary
In some cases, your job requires you to have a knife; for example, is Military and Police Officers.
Tactical knives are useful for defending oneself. They can also enable you to help others in distress.
The best-fixed blade tactical knife
There is a range of quality fixed blade knives, but the SOG Fixed Blade Tactical Knife (E37SN-CP)is by far the best-fixed blade tactical knife. It is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities and made with quality material for enhanced performance. This knife’s cryogenic heat treatment is one of its highlighted features. It makes the steel harder at the atomic level, making it stronger than many fixed blade knives at this price point.
You can use the military knife as a combat knife. It is a fighting knife designed specifically for military use. It also comes designed for hand-to-hand or close combat fighting. Military knives used for other tasks other than combat is known as “utility knife” or “survival knife.”
There are different types of knives made with troops in mind. Some of them are:
Combat fixed blades
Fixed blade dagger
FAQ: Frequently Ask Question About Tactical Knife:
Who makes the best tactical knife?
This question is a bit dicey because all the knife manufacturers on this list are top-notch. Their knives come manufactured with high-quality materials that perform incredibly well and can stand the test of time.
But some companies have mastered the act of knife making. The quality of their product has been consistent since inception. A good example is the Smith & Wesson knife manufacturers. Even though their tools are usually budget-friendly, the quality and standard are unbeatable.
What is the best quality tactical knife?
The best tactical knife is by far the Smith & Wesson Border Guard Knife. The knife comes built with quality carbon steel, which makes it possible to cut through materials of diverse strength with ease. Its serrated blade also makes it the outdoor weapon of choice. The knife is also versatile and has excellent emergency capabilities, thanks to its unique pocket clip. This knife is feature-rich and has everything you might be looking for in a tactical knife.
Finding the best tactical knife might seem like a chore, but it shouldn’t be after reading this review. But if you have one, a tactical knife can be a lifesaver. It can save your life and equally enable you to help others in emergencies. So it’s a great weapon to carry around.
The tactical knife can serve multiple purposes, but some comes designed for just one need. This knife helps during rescue missions, combat, survival, and EDC. You can also conveniently use some for your house chores, which shows how useful tactical knife can be.
We hope you had fun reading this article and that you can now make an informed decision when buying a tactical knife. You can also share your questions below if you have one.
If you are a professional chef or even just a home cook, the cutlery is one of the most important things to have in your kitchen. If you do not have decent knives, they will not cut your meats and veggies properly. Knives that are from Japan tend to be the best knives out there to use for cooking. Japanese knives are the go-to knives for any professional chef, so why not cook as the pros do? Finding out what the best Japanese knives are can be important to know when trying to find knives for chopping and cooking.
There are a lot of great knives out there from Japan, imported to America and other places around the world. The question remains, though, which knives are the best Japanese knives to use? What do the professionals use, and what should you be using? These questions and more will end up answered in this article, so keep reading!
Best Japanese Knives Reviews
There are a lot of Japanese knives reviews out there online. You can even go to Amazon.com to view other people’s review about the best Japanese knives that are available on Amazon. But this in-depth product review here will give you each of these best Japanese kitchen knives a thorough review so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
1. Tojiro DP Gyutou – 8.2″
The Tojiro DP Gyutou knife is one of the best Japanese cooking knives due to its high-quality steel and very sharp edge. This knife is made in Japan, by Fuji Cutlery which is a large factory from Fujitora Industries. They make some of the best Japanese chef knives in Japan. This knife is stain resistant, so when you use it for cooking and chopping your food, you do not have to worry about anything staining the silver metal. If you are left-handed or right-handed, this knife is the knife for you! It works for people of both handedness, so you can rest assured that this knife will work for you.
The Tojiro DP Gyutou knife also has a black handle with a silver blade, that is 1.7 inches in height and 8.2 inches in length and is a double bevel. It weighs 9.6 ounces, so you know you are getting a quality knife. To care for this knife, you need to hand wash it when you are done using it. You should never put this knife or any other knives of this high quality in the dishwasher, as it will eventually ruin it. The detergent and heat cycles used in a dishwasher will end up degrading the knife over time, which will make it less sharp quicker compared to handwashing it. Always take good care of your Japanese knives and make sure to follow all the instructions provided with it.
2. Shun Classic 8” Chef’s Knife with VG-MAX Cutting Core and Ebony PakkaWood Handle
This Shun Classic 8” Chef’s Knife has alternating layers of steel, including a VG-MAX core. This type of steel has carbon, cobalt, tungsten, and chromium to ensure its durability, strength, and sharpness. It also helps reduce corrosion of the steel itself, which allows for longer-lasting life. This blade is an all-purpose use blade, where you can use it for mincing herbs and even use this knife to cut the fat off of the meat. It has a D-shaped handle that is for right-handed people only; however, you can special order this as a reverse D-shaped handle if you are left-handed.
This Shun Classic 8” Chef’s Knife also is not to be used in an electric sharpener; it is better to use a sharpening stone or get it professionally sharpened instead. It is a very lightweight knife, at 7.2 ounces, so care needs to be taken when sharpening it. This knife’s handle is from ebony PakkaWood, which is a hardwood that has been infused with resin to allow for its water resistance and to make it very durable. This knife can get cleaned by hand washing, and there is a specific way you need to learn how to use this knife for proper slicing. First, you need to push the knife forward and then down while you cut any food. You repeat this process as you are cutting, so you can prevent chipping and allow for smoother cuts of your food. This knife is a great gift for everyone, including newlyweds, cooks, or even aspiring chefs.
This Shun Cutlery Premier 8” Chef’s Knife is one of the best Japanese cooking knives available. It is lightweight and agile, with a comfortable handle for those of any handedness. This easy to use knife comes with a razor-sharp blade in a box and is great for shopping and slicing any kinds of food. This knife has a thin, lightweight blade that allows for longer use before your hand gets tired. Even at 10.4 ounces, the knife is easy on the hand and can get used on any foods. These foods include vegetables, fruit, and even meats. The handle is from walnut PakkaWood with a hammered tsuchime finish which allows the food to fall off the blade easily while cutting it. You can also get a decently smooth, clean-cut while using this blade.
This Shun Cutlery Premier 8” Chef’s Knife also has an 8-inch blade, which allows for better cutting and makes cooking more fun. This knife has a 16-degree double bevel blade along with a VG-MAX cutting core that has 34 layers of Damascus cladding on both sides. This cladding allows for effective food preparation, and it looks like a great addition in your kitchen for aesthetics. Everyone will wonder where you got this knife from, and they will see how well it cuts, therefore wanting one for themselves as well. It is a great addition to any kitchen, both professional and homestyle. These knives are handcrafted and hand-sharpened in Japan and are great for use by anyone, from parents to grandparents, and even aspiring chefs.
This Kasumi 88020 8-inch Chef’s Knife has a Damascus pattern on the blade, which allows for it to be rust free while also looking nice and smooth. This knife is 10 inches with a longer blade length that allows for better ingredient preps. You can use this knife to prep any vegetables or fruit, even meats as well. It has a beveled edge on both sides of the blade and is a lot larger compared to the American or European versions of chef’s knives. This bevel also allows it to create a much sharper edge, making it easier to chop, slice, and dice your various foods. These knives are from Seki, Japan and by Sumikama Cutlery. They made this particular knife with an asymmetrical handle that has multiple layers of wood mixed with the plastic resin. They riveted this handle to the full tang.
This Kasumi 88020 8-inch Chef’s Knife also has 32 layers of fine stainless steel along with being made from VG-10 super stainless steel and high carbon, which allows for a finer cut and a lighter blade. This knife is only 11.7 ounces, which makes it much more lightweight than you would expect, and it has a rounded handle with a very good balance. This knife is in its original box and needs to get sharpened with a stone, not anything else. This quality, professional knife comes already sharpened, more than you would have expected it to be.
This Kyocera Advanced Ceramic LTD Series Chef Knife is one of the best Japanese kitchen knives that are sharp, durable, and also affordable. This knife has a hand-finished blade that is ceramic, made from zirconia that does not brown your food as you chop it. Its ceramic blade is ultra-sharp, allowing you to keep your blade sharp ten times longer than blade made from steel. This knife is produced in Japan and has a stainless-steel bolster with rivets that mimic the traditional style that Japanese cutlery is known for, along with being great for cutting vegetables, fruit, and boneless meats.
This Kyocera Advanced Ceramic LTD Series Chef Knife can cut almost anything but is recommended not to be used on frozen or specifically hard foods. The reason is that ceramic blades can tend to chip quite easily, whether by dropping it or trying to cut something hard. You should only use this blade on softer items, nothing too hard. It is also rust-proof, so that is a bonus, along with being resistant to any acids. This knife is also lightweight, along with being easy to clean also has a 7-inch blade, for the smaller cuts you may need to make. This knife has a black blade along with a black handle, allowing it also to be aesthetically pleasing to view. The Kyocera ceramic gets made from a specially designed zirconia formula that is only made by them in Japan. Their ceramic formula is unique to their company, so you know you are getting a great deal with their hand-crafted ceramic knives.
This Misono UX10 Sujihiki 9.4″ knife has a 9.4-inch blade along with being for right-handed individuals. It is made in Japan and has its blade sharpened before shipping. It keeps its sharp blade even after a few uses. It comes with a Swedish stain-resistant steel blade, and the handle is from composite wood. It only weighs 14.9 ounces, which is a great weight for those looking for a little bit of a heavier knife, but not wanting something too heavy. With the blade’s sharper edge, it allows you to slice, dice, and chop any foods you want.
This Misono UX10 Sujihiki 9.4″ knife also has a 15-degree single-sided blade, which allows for better honing of your blade. If you use an 800-whetstone, you can sharpen the blade with a little bit of ease. This knife is great for cutting things thin, such as flank steak, sashimi, or any other meats you desire. It comes sharpened in a box when it arrives at your house, and it is actually nice and lightweight, but not so lightweight it does not feel like it is there. You can still get a good grip on it and cut with ease, and still, have a little resistance. This knife is suitable for all types of chefs, beginner, intermediate, advanced, or professional. Anyone can use this knife is their kitchen, and as long as you take proper care of the blade and handle, this knife will last you a very long time.
7. Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife 7 Inch – Alpha-Royal Series
This Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife is one of the best Japanese knives out there on the market today. This knife has a full tang and is from imported Japanese AUS10 super steel. It has a 67-layer high carbon stainless steel which includes a hollow ground blade that allows this knife to be non-stick. It has a tsunami rose Damascus pattern with a liquid nitrogen tempering, which makes this rust and stain-resistant. The handle is triple-riveted to the full tang, allowing for extra durability and strength in your knife. The tapered bolster is very rare for knives and allows for great knife balance while cutting and is very comfortable.
This Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife it has a lifetime warranty, which not all manufacturers include with their knives. It has a three-metal mosaic rivet, making this a very nice-looking knife to own. Its handle is ergonomically designed and rounded, which allows for a comfortable and secured grip while cutting. With this knife, you get a razor-sharp edge along with minimal slicing resistance, which allows you to cut almost anything with precision, including vegetables, fruit, meat, fish and more. This knife allows for a more efficient cut every time you slice, dice, and chop. This knife is great for chefs of all kinds, including beginners to professionals. It is part of the Alpha-Royal Japanese Knife Series, and only weighs 9.9 ounces, which makes this knife extremely lightweight cutlery to have in your kitchen. This knife is a great addition to anyone’s kitchen.
This Global G-2 8-inch Chef’s Knife comes from Cromova 18 stainless steel, which has a mixture of vanadium, molybdenum, and chromium. This steel allows the knives to keep its sharpness by being nice and hard, while also having a softness to allow sharpening on a whetstone. It has high chromium content which reduces the risk of staining and rusting of the knife. This knife comes with the GLOBAL edge, which is their signature knife edge. This edge allows it to be ground steep enough and in an acute angle, making for a sharper knife which will stay sharper for longer than the regular Western or European knives.
This Global G-2 8-inch Chef’s Knife also has such a large and prominent knife-edge, that you can see with the naked eye. It extends about a quarter of an inch upwards from the knife tip. This knife has a stainless-steel handle as well, which is dimpled to ensure a safe and comfortable grip. You can find these knives in Yoshikin’s factory over in Niigata, Japan. The Global series knives are razor-sharp, so you know you will be getting a good cut on anything you chop. These knives are also lightweight, which help reduces the possibility of hand fatigue. Many professional chefs, such as Ludo LeFebvre, and even home chefs, use these knives. This knife also comes with a lifetime warranty in case you have any issues with it, such as defects or even breakage.
9. YOSHIHIRO Ice Hardened High Carbon Stainless Steel Wa Gyuto Japanese Chef Knife 8.25″
This YOSHIHIRO Ice Hardened High Carbon Stainless Steel Wa Gyuto Japanese Chef Knife has an 8.25-inch blade and is one of the sharpest knives out there. This knife gets created by forging together a single piece of high carbon Aus-8 stainless steel. This process helps to make the refined steel harder while also allowing it to be lightweight and have a great resiliency so it can perform in almost any condition. You should use water whetstone to sharpen your blade. You need to hand wash and dry this knife when cleaning, and also do it right away if you use any acidic ingredients on it.
This YOSHIHIRO Ice Hardened High Carbon Stainless Steel Wa Gyuto Japanese Chef Knife has a thin, double edge, razor-sharp blade to ensure the finest cuts of any ingredients. It has an Octagonal Handle for ergonomic use along with also being lightweight. Its handle is a traditional Shitan Rosewood handle, and it fits any size hand, giving its user a comfortable grip every time. This knife is stain resistant, but you need to make sure you keep both the handle and the blade clean. This 12.8-ounce knife is very lightweight, allowing for smooth transitions between cutting. You can cut any vegetables, meats, or fish needed for cooking. This knife comes from Japan, so you know you have a good quality knife. Its blade thickness is ~2mm and is a Gyuto Chef Knife. This knife is great for everyone, from beginner, intermediate, and advanced chefs to professionals.
This Miyabi 34313-273 Fusion Morimoto Edition Chef’s Knife is a combination of both Western and Japanese techniques. It has a Western-inspired ergonomic design with a Japanese blade and steel. It has a MIYABI Fusion blade with a 9.5 to 12-degree three-step Honzabuke processed hand-sharpened edge. The blade is VG10 super steel that is protected by a 64-layer Damascus pattern allowing the beautiful Japanese aesthetics with strength and durability. This blade is very sharp and thin, allowing for the perfect cut every time. The POM handle is easy to take care of and made Western-style, allowing for a thicker end to prevent slipping along with comfort for multiple cutting with ease.
This Miyabi 34313-273 Fusion Morimoto Edition Chef’s Knife is only 9.6 ounces, making for an extremely lightweight chef’s knife. It has a thin 10-inch blade that allows for precision cutting. Its handle is black with a red accent, and the knife is stainless steel. The blade is CRYDUR and ice-hardened to a Rockwell 60 rating. The knife’s handle has a rounded spine and heel along with three-rivets made out of glass bead enhanced POM. You know this exquisite knife is a great deal made with great quality materials. The bevel is 50/50 and is an excellent knife for both left and right-handed users. These knives are a great addition to anyone’s kitchen, including the very beginner up to professional chefs. With the addition of a warranty for any defects or manufacturer’s mistakes, you know you will get a great quality knife with the ability to return it if needed.
This Miyabi 34373-203 Chef’s Knife is one of the heavier knives out of the best Japanese knives list here. This knife weighs 1.18 pounds and has a firm, steady grip. It is great for those that do not prefer lightweight knives. Its SG2 micro carbide powder steel core is protected by 100 layers of steel, allowing for its unique sharpness. It also goes through an ice-hardening process, which locks in its sharp CRYODUR blade. Its flower Damascus pattern not only looks beautiful and exquisite but also helps provide some added durability to the knife. Its handle comes from Karelian Masur Birch. Not only does this knife look beautiful but is also cuts beautifully as well.
This Miyabi 34373-203 Chef’s Knife has an 8-inch thin Japanese blade, which allows for precision cutting, slicing, and dicing. It comes with a rat tail rod instead of a full tang; however, it is still very good at cutting what you need cut. Its handle is comfortable and allows for the perfect grip for right-handed people. The pommel of the knife allows it to be in perfect balance, and even though it weighs more than the rest of the knives on this list so far, it can still feel a tad lightweight at times during the cutting process. The bevel is 9 degrees, and the blade length from the spine by the hilt down to the edge below it is two and a half inches. This knife is great for beginner, intermediate, and advanced users, along with being used by professionals.
12. Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Revolution Series 4.5-inch Utility Knife
This Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Revolution Series 4.5-inch Utility Knife is one of the lightest and smallest knives on this list so far. It weighs only 1.76 ounces and is 4.5 inches long. Even at its small length, this ceramic knife is great for cutting, slicing, and dicing any vegetables, fruit, and boneless meats. You should not use this knife on hard or frozen foods, as it will chip or even break the ceramic blade. Due to its ceramic blade, this knife will last a very long time, in sharpness and comfort. Coming with an added warranty, they are guaranteed to last a lifetime with the proper care and sharpening. This knife is made out of zirconia Z206 blades and has dense sub-micron particles, which means fewer spaces in the blade. These particles mean its blade is denser and stronger than its competition, along with being very durable while slicing your produce and meat.
This Kyocera Advanced Ceramic Revolution Series 4.5-inch Utility Knife is half the weight of knives made out of steel and does not need a full tang to allow for balance like those other knives do. The blade is so light, which means it does not need any artificial weight added to keep its balance. While cutting you will receive minimal resistance, and it allows for precise, clean cuts with less pressure which makes this knife easier and more comfortable to use. This ceramic knife holds its edge ten times longer than other similar knives used in the kitchen. The ultra-sharp, lightweight knife allows for repetition without fatigue in your hands and wrists.
13.Yoshihiro VG10 16 Layer Hammered Damascus Gyuto Japanese Chef’s Knife
This Yoshihiro VG10 16 Layer Hammered Damascus Gyuto Japanese Chef’s Knife has a 3-layer construction, and it has a VG-10 Japanese stainless-steel center core and an HRC 60 to allow for better sharpness, durability, and edge retention. The HRC level is the hardness it has, which is exceptional compared to other similar knives. This hardness also makes it easier to sharpen and is more versatile than other knives that are out there. It has a 16 later hammered outer steel which allows for style and function at the same time with its design. It eliminates friction and keeps your food from sticking to the knife’s blade. The wooden handle is made out of Mahogany wood and has a full tang for balance and seamless usage. Its handle is very ergonomic and comfortable to use.
This Yoshihiro VG10 16 Layer Hammered Damascus Gyuto Japanese Chef’s Knife is also excellent for chefs that are just starting. It needs to be properly cared for though, with hand washing and drying, along with sharpened on a quality whetstone. This knife can slice, dice, and chop fresh produce and meats, allowing for precision cuts and great presentation. Which makes it very lightweight and easy to handle while remaining comfortable to use. The blade is not only very sharp but thinner than other knives on the market, which allows seamless cutting of any ingredients. This knife is stain-resistant, and even if left wet, it will not form rust during use. You can use this knife for extended periods and not have to worry about rust buildup. You do need to make sure you take proper care of this knife though, as with any knife on the market.
14. Kessaku Santoku Knife – Samurai Series – Japanese Etched High Carbon Steel, 7-Inch
This Kessaku Santoku Knife – Samurai Series – Japanese Etched High Carbon Steel knife is great to use in the kitchen. It has a very smooth mirror polished PakkaWood handle, which is heat, moisture, and cold-resistant with a full tang for additional strength. This handle allows for this knife to not collect any debris or dirt while cutting or sitting idle. This knife comes from high carbon 7CR17MOV stainless steel so it can resist rust and corrosion. These knives are well balanced, so you will not have issues while cutting with it. The handle is ergonomically designed to allow for reduced fatigue and aches while ensuring your comfort while cutting.
This Kessaku Santoku Knife – Samurai Series – Japanese Etched High Carbon Steel also has a razor-sharp blade that is hand sharpened at a 16-degree angle on both sides, which allows for a longer-lasting and sharper blade. It has a Rockwell hardness of 58, which means you know you will be getting a durable and strong knife that will last you a long time. This knife makes cutting, dicing and slicing feels effortless, so you do not have to worry about your hands hurting from cutting too much. This knife comes with a lifetime warranty against any manufacturing defects; however, it is unlikely to have any from the care they put into making these knives. This knife only weight 8 ounces, which means you will have a very lightweight but sturdy knife to use for a long time to come. It is great to use for beginners and professionals alike.
This Misono UX10 Santoku 7.0″ knife comes from high-quality Swedish steel that is stain resistant. It weighs only 12 ounces and has a 7-inch-long blade. The Swedish steel provides you with long-lasting edge retention compared to other brands. This knife has a riveted nickel silver bolster that allows for the durability of the knife along with a perfect balance of the blade and handle’s weight. This knife comes from a brand of knives known for its thin and very sharp knives. They are hand-finished, and extra care is taken to inspect and make sure these knives meet their highest standards. This knife is for use for right-handed users only and can handle cutting fish, meat, and even vegetables as well. It is great for small kitchens and will keep your knuckles far from the cutting board to reduce the risk of injury.
It has a 70:30 asymmetrical bevel, which allows for extra sharpness from your knife. By sharpening the face of the blade at a steeper angle compared to the back, it allows for a thin cutting edge and great sharpness for your knife. This knife has a high HRC for sharpening, so you need to take extra care while sharpening it. You should not cut bone with this knife; however, it can cut virtually anything else. You should never use an electric sharpener on these knives, always use a whetstone. This knife is great for anyone of any cooking skill level.
This Shun Classic 6-piece Slim Knife Block Set is the best Japanese knife set on the market today. You get all the knives you may need for cutting in the kitchen, along with scissors (shears) needed for any cutting tasks. This knife set comes with a 3.5-inch paring knife, 7-inch Santoku knife, 8-inch chef’s knife, 9-inch combination honing steel, Shun multi-purpose kitchen shears, and an 8-slot knife block. This knife block should be able to fit in the smallest of kitchens with its slim design. It has a VG-MAX cutting core with 34-layers of steel on each side of the knives. It also has a stainless Damascus cladding on the knife for stain resistance while cutting.
This Shun Classic 6-piece Slim Knife Block Set also has a D-shaped PakkaWood handle that is ebony in color, and it allows for a durable and strong handle that can resist moisture as well. This knife set has a Rockwell Hardness of 60 to 61. The blades are double beveled with an angle of 16 degrees on each side. The whole set is 8.9 pounds and is small enough of a knife block to fit virtually anywhere in your kitchen. This knife block set comes with a lifetime warranty, and you should make sure to take proper care of it as this warranty is limited to manufacturer defects only. You need to hand wash these knives and then dry right away, do not let them sit in water. While sharpening, you need to use a whetstone, not an electric sharpener. These knives are great for anyone to use from any skill set.
It is important to keep in mind the following when picking out the best Japanese chef knives, for example:
-Hardness: You need to make sure that the knife you are buying has a strong blade. Depending on the hardness of your knife, it will be an important factor in how well the knife works for you by cutting, chopping, and slicing different ingredients. When looking for this, you need to check the Rockwell rating for the knife, which means, when the rating is high, the knife will have a sharper edge for longer compared to those with lower ratings.
The best rating is between 58 and 60, which means the knife will keep its edge even after multiple sharpens. The knife rating does also depend on the quality of the material that the blade comes from, the better the materials, the better the hardness will be, which determines how long your knife will last you.
-Length: The length of your blade is an important factor as well, and it is important to have different sized blades for your kitchen knives. The various sizes allow you to use the different lengths for different foods you cut in the kitchen, whether you are slicing, dicing, or chopping meats, vegetables, or fruits, you will need different sizes and types of knives for all of these different purposes.
It is also important to factor in how far the length of the blade goes into the handle; this can determine your knife’s stability and strength for various tasks. If you would like a better balance in your knives along with control, the full-tang knives are the best Japanese knives that you can choose.
-Beveled: The bevel of the knife is important as well. You need to factor this in when you are picking out a new knife for your kitchen, for any purpose. If you are a beginner, you need a double-beveled knife, whereas professionals can use single beveled knives. The bevel determines how you sharpen your knife; the double bevel means it needs to be sharpened on both sides, whereas single bevels are only on one side that needs to get sharpened. Double bevels are easier to use than single, but also lose their sharpness sooner than the single bevels do.
What is your knife made from, is it stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, or Damascus? These metals all can make a knife differ in its performance, quality, maintenance, and even cost.
Stainless steel knives are more affordable compared to the carbon steel ones; however, they are not as easy to sharpen and keep sharp. They are, however, rustproof, so that is a bonus as well.
Carbon steel knives may be easier to sharpen compared to the others, while also keeping its blade sharper like the stainless-steel ones, but they will rust easier as well. These knives are harder to care for because you need to take good care of it, so it does not rust quickly.
Ceramic knives keep their blades sharper than the others; however, if you drop one of these knives, it will easily chip. Their blades come from zirconium oxide which makes these the lighter type of knives out of the four different kinds of blades.
If you get a knife that has a Damascus blade, you are buying a very strong and sharp knife. These knives have a carbon steel core that tends to have layers of hard and soft steel, which allows this blade to be much stronger than the other three blades. These blades can keep their sharpness for a lot longer than other blades do.
The weight of your knife is very important to consider when buying a new Japanese knife. You need to figure out if you prefer lightweight or heavier knives because whatever you are comfortable with will work better for you in the kitchen. If you get a heavy knife when lightweight is better for you, you will have trouble using the knife. Whereas if lightweight is too light for you, then you need a heavier knife to succeed in your kitchen.
Different types of knives have different types of handles. Some knives are made for left-handed people whereas most of them are for right-handed people. It is also important to consider the size of your palm when you are looking into buying a new knife because you want one that fits your hand, not something that is too big or too small for you.
How Do You Sharpen A Japanese Knife?
Most Japanese chefs tend to sharpen their knives after daily use to keep their knives in the best condition. When you first get a knife, you need to sharpen it right away, regardless of how sharp it may already is. You need to sharpen it because it is important to have the best, strongest edge to keep it from getting dull too quickly. You should never wait until your knife is dull to sharpen it, your knife never should get to that point. Make sure you sharpen it after you try the “sharp” test. First, take a piece of paper and try to slice it with your knife. If it slices it easily, your knife is sharp enough. However, if you slice and it crumples or catches on the paper, you need to sharpen your knife.
When sharpening your knife, you should never use an electric sharpener on a Japanese chef’s knife. You need to use a whetstone designed for sharpening knives. First, depending on the type of stone, you will need to get it wet. If it is a fine stone, splash it with some water. However, on medium or rough stones, you need to soak it first, for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, you are almost ready to cut. You need to put something down as a base, such as a wet cloth or something else that can stabilize the stone while you sharpen your knife.
Then you need to hold your knife with your index finger on the spine of it and your thumb on the flat part of the blade. The rest of your fingers need to hold the handle part of the knife. Then you use two to three fingers from your other hand to press the edge of the knife’s blade to the stone. While you sharpen the knife, you need to make sure the entire cutting edge ends up with a slight and even burr on the opposite side of the knife.
Make sure you press the edge of the knife’s blade to the stone and push along the stone, by putting pressure on it as it goes forward and releasing the pressure as the blade goes back down. Keep doing this until you achieve the desired results of the blade sharpness. Make sure you get one of the best Japanese knife sharpeners out there to sharpen your knives. It is recommended to use a whetstone, but if you can get it professionally done, that is a bonus.
Frequently AskedQuestions: About Japanese Knives
1. Why are Japanese knives the best?
Japanese knives are some of the best knives that are available online and in stores today. These knives are extremely sharp and last longer than knives of other countries. Japanese knives are built to last, as long as you properly care for them. There is a lot of information online for you to find out how to take care of one of the best Japanese knives listed here that you may end up choosing. Whether you are an experienced, professional chef, or just starting, Japanese knives are great for anyone of any skill level.
2. What are Japanese knives made of?
Japanese knives can come from many different materials, including stainless steel, carbon steel, ceramic, or Damascus materials for the blades. These different materials all have different pros and cons, as listed above in the materials section of the buyer’s guide. The handles can be made of various materials as well, including wood or steel. If you have a wooden handle, make sure you treat it with oil, wax, or whatever is recommended in the owner’s manual to keep it properly cared for, so it will last you a very long time. You should also check on how often you need to treat it, so you do not have any issues with your knife later on.
3. How do you maintain Japanese knives?
When getting a Japanese knife, you need to make sure you understand how to care for it properly. First, make sure you use a proper cutting surface for your knives, or you may risk chipping the knife and damaging the surface. Then you need to make sure you take good care of your blade which includes sharpening and cleaning it properly. You do not want to put any of these Japanese knives in the dishwasher, as it will cause them to rust, chip, and reduce their sharpness. Make sure you always sharpen your knives, regardless of dullness. You do not want to wait until the knife is dull to sharpen it, because it is harder to sharpen it then.
4. Why are Japanese knives so sharp?
Japanese knives are designed to be very sharp because of different traditions that have been passed down through every generation and the ever-evolving technology they use to form the steel knives. Because of this, their knives tend to be the sharpest compared to other types of knives. They use the best quality materials to make their blades and handles, which allows the knives to be much sharper than the competition’s knives. They are constantly trying to find ways to improve the products they produce for the general public, which includes making the best quality knives out of the best quality materials.
5. How much do Japanese knives cost?
Japanese knives vary in cost, anywhere from $70 up to hundreds of dollars. The high cost is because of the quality materials that they use in their blades and handles, along with the hard work they put into every Japanese knife that they make. The better the quality and the materials, the higher the cost of the knife. Higher cost does equal better quality in this case; however, even $70 knives are of great quality, due to the dedication the Japanese have to make the best products they can since they use exotic steels, the more exotic, the higher the cost as well.
Picking out the best Japanese knives can seem like a hard task; however, if you follow the buyer’s guide above, you will find the best knives for your specific needs. You need to make sure you get the right knife for what you need to use it for and keep in mind any preferences you may have with knives. Once you can determine that, picking out one of the above knives will be a breeze. Make sure you get a good, quality knife that will last you a very long time. And if you do not know how to sharpen a Japanese knife, you need to learn how before you buy one. Make sure you follow this review article in picking out your first Japanese knife, so you find one that is of great quality and matches what your needs are.
What more could anyone want? Shun Ken Onion knives, rated by thousands of satisfied users all over the world to be one of the best folded Japanese knives. These are precision made using the same knife making methods that made the Samurai Swords. Ken Onion is the award winning and world famous knife maker and Premier Knife Designer for the equally famous Kershaw Knives. The combination of incomparable knife manufacture and knife design cannot be described.
Some chefs and knife aficionados all hail that the Shun Knives are considered one of the most beautiful knives ever to grace the kitchen counter. The heated and folded steel that makes up the layers of the knife blade will quickly satisfy the serious cook who wants nothing but the best performance blades in their hands.
The knives in this series are stunning. You can choose any knife that suits your needs – a 3 inch paring knife, 8 inch chef’s knife, 7 inch hollow ground santoku and many others. They is manufactured in Seki, Japan, the home of the Samurai craftsmen, and set in Pakka-wood which is a hardwood and resin combination that not only give it beauty of wood but the protection of the plastic making the handles last longer than the ordinary kitchen knives.
The handles are designed for comfort, so despite the sharpness of the knives, the user can do flowing motions with the knife on the cutting board. The bolster itself has a thumb and forefinger curved into the contours which reduces the stress of handling. In short, the feel of the knife is incredible as it is functional.
These are very sharp knives, there is no going around that fact. But it is not just the sharpness that matter here, they are well balanced and comfortable knives to use which prevents accidental slips. This is a very important feature for serious cooks and chefs who weld the knife with speed and precision. Any blade less than the Shun Ken Onion Knives should not fetch the same price
Stiletto knives are not your ordinary type of cutting knives. Stiletto knives are known for their elegant designs but mostly because of their unique features. Stiletto knives have double edged blades with grooves more prominently called “blood grooves”. Most people see these knives as highly dangerous because they are too sharp to handle. Only professional stiletto knife users are safe to carry these knives regularly. A slight mishandling of a stiletto knife can cause someone serious injury.
Because of the high risk stiletto knives bring, there are countries which ban the use of these types of knives. But at the same time, because of the same reasons, more and more people are after collecting stiletto knives. You know how some people like danger and the more risky something is, or the more illegal an object is, the more they want to take them in on their collections.
Italian stiletto knives are the most prominent when it comes to highly banned stiletto knives. Italian stiletto knives have automatic switchblades where the blade automatically pops in a matter of seconds when you hit a pushbutton. Military personalities usually own Italian stiletto knives because they are highly useful during tactical operations. Some individuals prefer to carry Italian stiletto knives for personal protection.
Whatever your purpose may be in finding stiletto knives for sale, keep in mind that not all stiletto knives are the same. Just like any other products you purchase online, there are stores which follow high standards and there are some who sell cheap stiletto knives with qualities following their price. Beware of these stores and use wisdom before buying anything online.
Choose a store which sells stiletto knives made by knife makers who already carved their names in the industry of stiletto knife making. These knives may be more pricy but you’ll be more assured of the quality of knives you are buying. The price of stiletto knives is very much different from regular knives and if you are buying for the sake of collecting them or for your own personal use, it will be much wiser to invest on quality over price.
You can find stiletto knives for sale according to the countries where they were made. The more prominent the country is, the higher the price. A stiletto knife made from Italy will be much more expensive than those made from other countries such as Asia and USA but don’t be fooled by false claims that you can only pick good ones from one location. Times are changing and so thus the quality of products. What’s good today won’t be necessarily good tomorrow.
Forschner Victorinox kitchen and utility knives are the best rated and reviewed stainless steel stamped knives. They are manufactured by the Swiss company Forschner Victorinox and follow the tradition of precise craftsmanship that is the signature of all Swiss knives.
Before you decide on what kitchen knives to buy for your home use, you should know the different types of knives first. There are the forged knives which is the traditional method of making knives. This method uses melted steel which are poured into moulds and then polished and ground until they are smooth and free of excesses. The handles of these knives have the distinctive three rivets that hold it to the tang of the blade. Then there are the stamped knives which are manufactured from a single piece of metal sheet cut out to a particular shape. These are flatter, less dense, and definitely lighter than the forged type. The Forschner Victorinox kitchen knives offer both the stamped and the forged knives. However, the more popular are the stamped knives for they are more economical and easier to handle on the most part.
Fortunately, stamped or not, the Forschner Victorinox kitchen knives still function very well. In fact, the reviews on these knives are all positive regarding the safety and slip resistance handles that make them favoured by many.
All of the Forschner Victorinox kitchen knives go through the seven standards for quality knives which are: blade sharpness, blade smoothness, blade sharpness retention after a specified time, the make, comfort on the handling, balance, and the most important, and resistance from corrosion and rust that would eventually develop through continued use.
Choosing knives is really dependent on the personal preference of the one who is buying. If it is for home use, Amazon would recommend the Victorinox 8-Piece Knife Block Set at a discounted price of $179.95 which is rated a 5/5 in customer satisfaction. The set will be a good addition to the kitchen counter and the block is a definite space saver. Of course there are other offers as well like gift sets and individual knives, the choices are out there and they are all good.
Regarding expectations on the performance of the knives, so far these knives have the best rating even from chefs who have individual standards. The ‘feel’ of the knives when used is just right whether it is stamped or forged.
The classic 8-inch chef’s knife from the industry leader Victorinox needs no introduction. From stunning ergonomics to extraordinarily sharp commercial-grade blade, Victorinox excels in every technical aspect. The Fibrox model is designed to operate almost every possible kitchen task with accuracy and speed. The brutal cutting edge of the blade finely chops vegetables, slices and dices fruits and any kind of meat.
The Swiss stamp embossed on the knife assures premium quality and incredible durability of the product. I have always been a die-hard fan of Victorinox SAK knives. When the launched a product line for kitchen purposes, I couldn’t resist ordering it. In this article, I’ll throw light upon the good, the bad and everything in-between about this device.
The USP of this knife is undoubtedly the multipurpose 8 inch blade made from the best quality high carbon stainless steel. The lengthwise and crosswise conical shape of the blade is an example of genius ergonomics. This unconventional shape, sharpened to 15 degrees, allows minimal resistance and maximum cutting force during the cutting action. Plus, the steel blade has been given a mirrored polish finish for optimal sharpness and edge holding capacity.
The patented 2 inches wide, textured, no-slip Fibrox handle makes maneuvering the knife really easy on your hand. To ensure longevity of the knife, wash the blade manually after each use. Apart from being a brutal slicer, the carbon steel combats rust and corrosion for years. Another notable fact is that each Victorinox knife including this chef’s knife is NSF (National Sanitary Foundation) approved.
The 8 inch knife, sharpened to a 15 degree angle creates a thin edge, is engineered to perform both heavy duty tasks like bottle opening and delicate activities like slicing tomatoes, onions, bread with equal accuracy.
This knife stays razor sharp for 2-3 months. If used extensively, you might need to hone in every two days.
This upscale knife from one of the front-line knife manufacturing firms can yours at a very inexpensive rate (under $30 at the time of publishing this). Unbelievable but true!
The sturdy, dishwasher safe construction of the Victorinox Fibrox deserves a big thumbs up. The textured handle feels comfortable in the grip. The carbon stainless steel blade comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Even though a tough material like this is not likely to break, yet in case it does, the cost is covered.
Some customers on Amazon have reviewed that keeping the knife in the dishwasher for a long time affects the sharpness of the blade. I would also recommend to either wash it with hands or give it a quick wash-up in the dishwasher for optimum benefit.
I’ve been using this knife for two years and I wasn’t disappointed for even a single day. Honing the edge using a rod is quick and easy affair. The thin edge of the blade adds to the versatility of the knife. Victorinox chef’s knife is a dream appliance for any food hobbyists like me who settle for nothing short of perfection.
Whether you are a serious cook or not, you can agree with me that a quality knife is one of the most important and must-have tools in your kitchen. Whether you are chopping up some potatoes, cutting fruits for your kids, or slicing meat, you will always need the best kitchen knives. If your kitchen knife isn’t right, it’s highly likely that you will encounter cutting and cooking challenges even with the best skills and recipes.
So, which are the best kitchen knives to get for my kitchen, especially if I am on a budget? If that is your concern, then worry less because we have done the job for you. Here, we have outlined the top 15 best kitchen knives along with a comprehensive summary of everything you need to know about knives -kitchen knives buying guide, how to sharpen your knife, and answers to common kitchen knives related questions. In short, everything you need to know about kitchen knives is taken care of in this article, so, keep on reading.
After thoughtful research, we have compiled a list of the top 15 kitchen knives to consider in 2019. Here it is;
1. Victorinox Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife, 8-Inch Chef’s
First in our list is one of the most popular and quality kitchen knives in the market today – the Victorinox Fibrox Pro Chef’s 8-Inch Knife. It’s a multipurpose knife that does everything a kitchen knife is supposed to do. From slicing to chopping, dicing, and mincing – whatever you need to cut in the kitchen, this knife has got you covered.
It’s crafted from a high-carbon stainless steel body to serve you better and longer. Also, the body doesn’t wear out and remains free of stains even if you use it with colored foods or fruits. A wet piece of cloth is all you need to restore the glowing and shiny appearance of the blade. The stainless steel feature also makes it resistant to corrosion from water and highly acidic foods.
What about the size? It has a straight 8-inches blade that features a partial tang that is hidden under the plastic handle. With such a size, there is absolutely nothing this knife can’t do in your kitchen. You get to cut with ease and precision, both small and large types of foods. It’s also easy to Sharpen.
The knife is also designed with a reasonably deep belly and a high handle to prevent your fingers from hitting the board when preparing your vegetables. The ergonomic design of the handle offers maximum control and comfort when working with the knife. Regardless of the hardness of the food, your hand or wrist won’t hurt or feel numb even if you work with it for hours.
The non-slip feature of the handle also makes it safe for use – even with wet hands, the handle offers a firm grip and gives you maximum control over the knife. The Fibrox – plastic material of the handle also makes it resistant to extreme temperature, water, and oils in the kitchen.
The knife is straightforward to clean. Victorinox Swiss Army recommends that you wash it by hand with a soapy cloth. Dry it immediately.
The Mercer Culinary M22612 Millennia 12-inch chef’s knife is another amazing knife that will give you maximum cutting performance and durability.
It’s a stainless steel Japanese knife made with a high carbon blade that allows you to cut through a variety of foods effortless and with great precision. The blade is also easy to maintain and resistant to discoloration, rust, and corrosion.
The knife offers a razor-sharp edge that makes chopping and cutting a breeze – it’s designed to cut through foods without tearing or crushing.
Another feature worth appreciating in this knife is its ergonomic, durable, and comfortable handle. The handle is crafted from a unique blend of Santoprene and polypropylene materials for maximum comfort and durability, respectively.
The handle also features a textured finger point that allows for a sturdy and non-slip grip even when cutting through hard foods such as meats. The handle is also designed to widen gently where it meets the blade to protect your fingers from stressed to the cutting board.
Additionally, the knife is big enough to cut through both small and large types of foods. From quickly chopping up onions to halving a watermelon, the 12 inches blade of this knife has got you covered.
If you have any concerns about the safety, quality, and usability of the Mercer Culinary M22612 Millennia 12-inch chef’s knife, then worry not – its NSF certified.
This knife is easy to maintain and clean. However, the manufacturer warns about washing it in a dishwasher safer mainly because of the extreme heat, pressure, and harsh detergents which are not favorable to the handle. Just use warm soapy water to clean and dry it with a soft towel for storage.
3. Victorinox Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife, 8-Inch Chef’s FFP
If you are looking for a quality kitchen knife, but you are on a budget, then consider getting this Victorinox knife. It’s a multi-purpose knife that is fit for all your kitchen tasks, including chopping, dicing, slicing, and mincing.
The Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8” Chef’s knife FFP is praised by professional chefs and home cooks for its comfortable ergonomics and non-slip handle. Also, the lightweight nature and sharp-edge retaining ability are to thanks for its popularity.
The knife features a stainless steel European edge that is easy to sharpen and maintain. The razor-sharp edge offers smooth, efficient, and quick slicing of foods. The blade is 8 inches long and wide to deliver optimum cutting performance. The long sloping deep blade rocks perfectly and it’s big enough to cut through large fruits and vegetables. It also cuts easily through both soft and hard types of foods.
The non-slip Fibrox Pro handle offers a firm and comfortable grip on the knife to allow you to effortlessly cut through foods regardless of the size of your hands. Even with wet hands, rest assured that you won’t cause damage to your fingers or the food. The flat spine nature of the blade offers added power to cut through hard-skinned items.
Overall, the Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8” Chef’s knife FFP is easy to handle, clean, and it’s dishwasher safe. However, it’s recommended that you hand wash to prevent the extreme water pressure and harsh detergents in the dishwashers from ruining the knife. Also, remember to sharpen the knives once you notice it has become dull for optimum performance.
4. Imarku Chef Knife – Pro Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef’s knife
The Imarku Chef Knife is one of the best kitchen knives that you can buy for all your kitchen needs. This multi-functional knife is enough to cater to all your cutting applications. It cuts, slices, chops, dices, and as well it can even cut the meat off bones.
It’s unique design and chrome-finish is another fantastic reason you should get this knife. Its features a high-carbon stainless steel blade for exceptional functionality and durability. It’s also quite sturdy and can be used even for the toughest tasks without losing its excellent performance. The glossy finish of the blade makes sure that doesn’t tarnish, fade, or corrosion even after using it for long.
The knife also features a high-quality Pakka handle which is non-slip even with wet hands and very comfortable to use. Also, the Pakka material provides added comfort, stability and strength of the handle. The ergonomic nature of the handle also prevents your fingers from fatigue, numbness, pain, and cramps after extended usage. Also, the knife is sizable and lightweight so you won’t feel tired quickly due to its weight.
The Ultra-sharp edge gives the best and prolonged cutting performance. The blade also retains its sharp for long periods as long as it is properly sharpened.
To extend its lifespan, avoid cutting through frozen foods and don’t use it in a hot flame. Extreme temperature and pressure will cause the protective finish to wear away. Also, although this knife is dishwasher safe, it’s recommended that you hand wash it with warm soapy water to preserve its chrome-finish.
5. Mercer Culinary Genesis Forged Chef’s Knife, 6 Inch
Here is another excellent kitchen knife from the Mercer family – the Mercer Culinary Genesis Forged Chef’s knife. It comes with a versatile design that gives you full control when dicing, slicing, chopping and mincing. It’s an all-purpose kind of knife that allows you to handle all your food preparation tasks efficiently and effectively.
The blade design is a great feature worth noting in this knife. It’s made from high-carbon stainless steel for better durability and strength. The German cutlery steel is perfect for any kitchen tasks since it’s resistant to rust, discoloration, and corrosion.
The Mercer Culinary Genesis Forged Chef’s knife also features a taper-ground edge for easy honing, added stability, and increased efficiency when cutting. The thick and robust bolster is an amazing feature that offers excellent balance, stability, and durability.
The edge is sharp and can manage even the toughest cutting tasks. You don’t need to worry about sharpening it after every use – if properly used; it has a long-lasting sharpness.
What about the handle design? The Mercer Culinary Genesis Forged Chef’s knife features an ergonomic Santoprene handle which offers maximum comfort gripping. It’s also non-slip and can withstand extreme exposure kitchen oils as well as both hot and cold temperatures.
The manufacturer warns about using the knife in a dishwasher. The extreme heat and detergents could damage the handle causing it to deteriorate. You can hand wash the knife with warm soapy water and dry with a towel.
Limited lifetime warranty
A taper-ground edge
German premium high-carbon cutlery stainless steel blade
6. Kitchen + Home Non-Stick Sushi Knife – The Original 8 inch
If you are the kind of people who are really into a healthy lifestyle, then the Kitchen +Home Non-Stick Sushi Knife is the perfect choice for your kitchen. Why is this?
First, this knife is designed with a metallic, non-stick, and Teflon coated blade. Whether you are cutting fruits, chopping vegetables, or slicing meat, you don’t have to worry about your food sticking on the knife. The non-stick feature also makes it quite easy to clean up.
While the knife is dishwasher safe, the manufacturer recommends hand washing with soapy water.
The blade is also PFOA free to make sure that your health standards are not compromised. Also, 10 holes have been added to the cutting edge to improve performance by reducing the cutting friction.
The knife is crafted from high-quality surgical stainless steel for maximum flexibility and effortless cutting. The blade is thin and cuts with high precision without crushing or tearing the foods. The 8-inch blade also offers a razor-sharp performance with maximum durability and edge retention. Also, the stainless steel construction makes it resistant to tarnish and rust.
Whatever you need a kitchen knife for, this knife has you covered – it’s a multi-purpose knife perfect for cutting, dicing, chopping, and mincing. Also, if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, then this is your knife. It’s lightweight, effortless to use, and easy to control – you can work with it for long hours without your palm feeling numb.
The ergonomic handle is another amazing feature of the Kitchen +Home Non-Stick Sushi Knife. The handle is crafted from nonporous, non-slip ABS material, thereby making it safe, lightweight, and comfortable to use. Also, it offers a secure grip even with wet hands.
Lifetime warranty and a 30 days 100 % money-back guarantee
7. DALSTRONG Chef Knife – Gladiator Series – German HC Steel – 8″ (200mm)
If you take your cooking seriously, then the Dalstrong Gladiator chef knife 8” is an essential tool you can’t afford to miss in your kitchen. In fact, you won’t find any quality knife with such a reasonable price.
The knife features a precision-forged blade crafted from premium high-carbon ThyssenKrupp German steel. It has a thin ultra-sharp stain-resistant edge that offers an excellent cutting, dicing, and slicing performance with minimal effort. The long and wide blade size also allows for easy knuckle clearance and scooping of food.
The knife is easy to sharpen and offers extended edge retention. It’s also very light and provides a perfect balance – you won’t have difficulties even when dealing with large cutting tasks. The edge offers a razor-sharp performance and can cut through tough types of foods. It’s designed to handle heavy-duty, thick and more delicate detail tasks.
The lightweight nature of the knife also makes it perfect for use for more extended periods of time. The hand-polished bolster on this knife also adds counterweight and provides finger protection. Also, the triple-rivet in the handle offers the highest level of stability, strength, and robustness.
The knife also features an ergonomic Spanish Pakkwood handle that is laminated to offer added sanitation, strength, and water/stain resistance. Also, the knife is fitted with a BPA free protective Dalstrong PerfectFit sheath for a healthy lifestyle.
8. J.A. HENCKELS INTERNATIONAL 31161-201 CLASSIC Chef’s Knife, 8 Inch, Black- B00004RFMT
This Spanish German kitchen knife is another excellent knife worth adding into your kitchen.
Besides the high-quality satin finish the knife is made of, it features a high-quality German-made blade. Whether you need a slicing, chopping, dicing, or cutting knife, you can do all that with this knife. The knife is large enough to take care of both small to large-sized food preparation tasks with much ease.
The full forged construction of the J.A Heckels international 31161-201 classic 8-inch knife ensures maximum durability and a seamless transition from the blade to the handle. The full bolster also offers added weight while increasing the safety of using the knife.
The satin-finish offers added cutting precision of foods. Whether you are slicing meat or cutting through bread, this knife will do it with ease and without tearing your food. The edge is also finely honed and offers a long-lasting edge sharpness and retention. The stain-resistant carbon steel blade also makes the knife resistant to rust or tarnish.
The comfortable and durable handle of the J.A Heckels international 31161-201 classic 8-inch knife is another big bonus. The ergonomic handle features a traditional triple-rivet design which offers extra comfort and balance when working with the knife. Regardless of the size of your hands, undoubtedly, this knife is a good fit for you.
If you are worried about the maintenance costs of this knife, then that is no longer a concern. The knife comes with a lifetime warranty so you can buy it with full confidence. While it’s dishwasher safe, it’s recommended that you hand wash with a mild cleanser. Remember, dishwashing can ruin the coating while making the blade to lose its edge more quickly.
For many years, the Global manufacturer has retained its reputation of being one of the most successful brands for producing high-quality and professional knives globally.
The most striking feature worth noting in this Global-G 2-Inch chef’s knife is the sharp razor-like sharpness. The Global manufacturers understand the need for smooth and precise cutting in every kitchen that why they have their knives already sharpened on both sides of the blade.
It’s also quite easy to sharpen – just a few strokes with a sharpening stone will create a razor-sharp edge with excellent edge retention capacity. The versatile blade will cut foods quickly and with utmost ease – make sure to sharpen it as soon as you notice the blade is dull. Global recommends using a diamond steel or ceramic sharpener to hone the knife.
The blade steel is hard enough to handle difficult tasks such as cutting meat or slicing through a thick fruit. The high chromium material of the knife also gives it excellent resistance to staining and rust while increasing its durability.
Also, the blade edges are ground steeply to an acute angle, giving you a sharper performance. This knife is perfect whether you are dealing with small or large tasks thanks to its large-sized edge. Also, the blade retains its sharpness excellently.
The high-quality stainless steel handles is another great feature with this kitchen knife. The handles are crafted of high-tech vanadium stainless steel and are designed to fit the hand comfortably without slipping. The handles are also seamless for sanitation.
This global knife only weighs 7.8 Ounces making it lightweight and therefore easy to use for extended periods without your hands getting numb or fatigue.
Also, while the Global-G 2-Inch chef’s knife is safe for dishwashing, hand washing is recommended to help protect the edges lifespan. Also, the quality of the knife is evident, thanks to the lifetime warranty against breakage and defects.
The Wusthof Classic 8” chef’s knife is a tough yet reliable knife for your kitchen.
The first thing worth noting about this knife is its versatile and durable blade construction. It features an 8” long blade and a 5” long handle – am confident that is the right size for your entire kitchen tasks including chopping, slicing, mincing, cutting, and dicing.
The blade is precision-forged from a high-carbon stainless steel construction making it resistant to stains and corrosion – absolutely no need to oil it. Also, the Wüsthof’s Precision Edge Technology offers a 20% sharper blade with extended edge retention.
Weighing just 8.5 oz., the knife is lightweight and offers a perfect balance when using the knife. You won’t feel numb even if you use the knife for extended periods. Also, the full bolster and finger guard in this Wusthof’s Classic Chef’s knife guarantees maximum safety, control, and comfort when using it.
This knife also features an Ergonomic handle design made of a high-end synthetic construction to resist discoloration and fading. You can rest assured that your knife’s beautiful finish will last.
The full Tang and triple-riveted handle of this knife ensure total satisfaction for every home cook or chef. Also, the handle is durable and very comfortable to use.
If you are still not sure whether this knife is worth your money or not, then there isn’t anything to worry about. The Wusthof Classic 8” chef’s knife comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so your peace of mind is guaranteed. Additionally, it’s completely hygienic.
This set offers you 4 high-quality German stainless steel MAD SHARK knives. All the knives are designed with micro-serrated razor-sharp edges to provide maximum sharpness for smooth cuts even when dealing with a hard task. The knife has excellent edge retention so you won’t have to sharpen it after every task.
Forget about regular oiling for coating maintenance. It features the best kitchen knife steel construction that makes the blade resistant to corrosion, discoloration, and rust. The upward curved tip of the blade is designed to allow you to remove meat from the bones effortlessly. Also, it makes the knife ideal for use as a dinner, table, and utility knife.
This set of knives also features solid ergonomic ABS handles that are safe and comfortable grip with minimal wrist tension. Regardless of the size of your hands, your hand will firmly fit on the handles. The handles have been designed with finger guards to help protect your fingers. Also, it gives increased control over the blade when cutting foods, thereby giving you great precision when using the knife.
The triple rivets on the handles contribute to increased durability, strength, and reliability when using the knife. The Ergonomic design offers a good balance between the blade and the handle, making it easy to cut through stuff. Also, the lightweight nature of the knife allows you to use the knife for long periods without feeling numb.
Although the knives are dishwasher safe, it’s recommended that you wash them by hand with soapy water and dry it thoroughly for storage.
12. Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Fibrox Pro Knife Set, 4-Piece
One thing you can agree with me is that the Victorinox knives are among the most affordable yet high-standard knives out there specially made to satisfy all your kitchen needs. If you are looking for multiple knives, this is the best kitchen knife set you should get.
With the Victorinox Swiss Army Cutlery Fibrox Pro Knife Set, you get a set of 4 knives all durable – a paring, chef’s, bread, and utility knife. The knives are lightweight and sizable – 10.25” for bread knife, 8” for the chef knife, utility knife – 6” and paring knife – 4”.
The good news is that all the knives are made up of high-carbon stainless steel and are ice tempered to ensure maximum edge sharpness retention. All the knives also meet the National Sanitation Foundation standards so there shouldn’t be anything to worry about as far as the safety of using the knives is concerned.
All the knives feature a bolsterless edge that allows you to effortlessly cutting, chopping, dicing, mincing, and slicing. All with perfect precision – it will cut through bread and fruits without crushing them. Also, the edge is easier to sharpen and has a long edge retaining abilities.
Each of the knives is easy to handle. The knives are fitted with an ergonomic Fibrox Pro handle that is non-slip to make sure that it won’t fall out of hand even when wet. Also, the knives are easy to maintain and wash. Although the set is dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended. Dishwashing tends to reduce the edge retention of a knife.
The Victorinox also offers a lifetime guarantee against defects in workmanship and material. So, there isn’t much to worry about your investment.
13. WÜSTHOF CLASSIC IKON 8 Inch Chef’s Knife – Model 4596-7/20
This is another amazing kitchen knife from the Wusthof family. The Wusthof Classic Ikon Cook’s knife features an 8” blade essential for preparing a wide variety of meals. In fact, this knife is an all-purpose knife used for mincing, chopping, dicing, and slicing.
The knife features a beautiful high-carbon stainless steel blade construction that is tempered to 58-degrees HRC. The blade is designed with a precision edge technology to ensure excellent edge sharpness and retention.
The blade of this Wusthof Classic Ikon Cook’s knife also features a distinctive double Bolster design that offers a smooth transition from the handle to the blade. The double design is meant to add the knife’s stability, strength, durability, and provides perfect control balance when using the knife.
The edge is also quite sharp and has excellent edge retention. The edge is also easy to sharpen and cuts through even the toughest tasks. The lightweight design of the knife also makes it easy for you to prepare your foods without getting tired.
What about the handle? The Wusthof Classic Ikon Cook’s knife is designed with a thick and comfortable handle. The ergonomic, sophisticated, and sleek handle is made from a high-quality synthetic material that is resistant to rust or tarnish. Also, you can with this knife on colored foods without discolored.
The handle is conformable and rests in your hands perfectly. The handle also features a full tang with triple rivets for increased control and precision.
If you are on a budget but are looking for a quality and comfortable knife for your kitchen, then this is the knife to get. In fact, this knife is among the best Japanese kitchen knives in the market today. Besides the great price it comes with, this knife is edged and is perfect for both right and left-handed users. Overall, the knife is handy and easy to maintain. It has an exceptional performance thanks to its incredible blade design and control balance.
The Tojiro DP Gyutou knife features an 8.2 inch Japanese designed stainless steel blade. The blade is durable and stain-resistant, so you don’t need to keep on oiling it to preserve its coating. The blade height is 1.7” which is enough for cutting through large and demanding pieces of foods with much ease. Also, it retains its precision for extended periods.
Another amazing feature you will notice after getting this knife is the versatile and classic handle design. It’s comfortable to grip and wraps around your hand quite well, making your food preparation process enjoyable. The handle is also triple-riveted for added durability and strength. You can comfortably use it even with wet hands without slipping.
This Japanese knife is designed with the best cutting edge. The sharp edge and average weight of the knife – 9.6 ounces makes it easy to cut through even the toughest foods such as meat with ease without crashing it.
This Tojiro DP Gyutou knife is not dishwasher safe. Hands wash the knife with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Then dry for storage.
Last but not least in our best kitchen knives in our list, is the Shun Classic 8 inch Western Cook’s Knife. It’s ideal for a wide range of tasks in the kitchen, including dicing, chopping, rocking, and slicing, among other uses.
This knife features a classic stainless steel Damascus-clad blade. This provides a long-lasting, durable, corrosion-resistant, and effective cutting performance. The edge features a razor-like sharpness – you can’t cut through the toughest tasks effortlessly and quickly. Also, the knife offers incredible edge retention. With a 16° cutting angle offers added cutting strength which is needed when dealing with heavier types of foods.
The Shun Classic 8 inch Western Cook’s knife also features classic D-shaped ebony Pakkawoods handle. The handle is comfortable to grip and gives you full control over the knife. With this knife, you can confidently chop, slice, and cut foods without worrying about your fingers safety. Also, the handle is bent a little to the right to allow your hand to form better.
This knife also features a deep finger guard to prevent your thumbnails from being nicked with the cutting knife. Whether you have short or long fingernails, your fingers will not get fatigued or numb even if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The knife features a height of 2.1 inches and therefore can be used to cut through thick.
The knife comes sharpened. However, you should hone if you notice that the blade is getting dulled. Also, to retain the beautiful finish of this knife, consider handwashing it with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry after use.
Given the sheer number of kitchen knives options available in the market today, it’s highly important that you know what to look for in a good knife. If you get to the market blindly, you might make a wrong decision, especially given the fact that every manufacturer in the industry brags about being the best.
Additionally, all these knives tend to look the same and deciding on one right product becomes a challenging task to take. To help you in identifying the best knife for your kitchen, we have included this buying guide section. Here, we have outlined the top kitchen knives considerations to keep in mind.
Knife size and weight
Generally, most kitchen knives come in multiple blade sizes ranging between 6 inches to 12 inches. Why do you need a kitchen knife? The answer to this question can help you decide on which blade size you should buy.
For instance, if you deal with tough and large cutting tasks, then a 10 to 12-inch blade is a perfect size for you. Also, a heavier knife is better if you are dealing with heavier tasks. If you are looking for a utility knife, then a lighter knife is ideal.
Consequently, you can visit the store and hold the knives in your hands. You will decide easily whether a specific knife will potentially work for you as far as the size, weight, balance, and materials are concerned. Remember, the overall opinions and experiences of the knife vary based on an individual.
Knives blades are crafted from different steel construction materials. What you need to know is that the material of the knife plays a major role as far as the sharpness, durability, strength, and edge retention is concerned.
Most common knife material types include carbon steel, high-carbon stainless steel, and stainless steel.
Carbon steel knives are sharp, easy to sharpen, and have excellent edge retention. High carbon steel knives are durable, and stain and rust resistance. Also, compared to other materials, they are more expensive. On the other hand, the stainless steel knives are stain and rust-resistant but don’t have excellent edge retention capabilities as compared to carbon steel. They are also quite affordable.
A good blade material should be strong, durable, stain/rust-resistant, sharp edge, easy to sharpen, and should have good edge retention.
Whatever the reason is for getting a kitchen knife, you should never make a buying decision without considering the knife handle design. A good handle will make your food preparation tasks easier and enjoyable. The knife handle should be comfortable and offer enough gripping area that fits your hand perfectly.
Mostly, knife handles are made of plastic, wood, or quality resins. For wooden handles, make sure you go for a high-quality wood material – it might cost you some extra bucks, but it’s worth it. While most wood handles are comfortable and non-slip, they do require proper maintenance and are vulnerable to staining.
Plastic handles, on the other hand, are comfortable, affordable, and easy to maintain and clean. A major downside of a plastic handle is that it might contain BPA, which is not safe for human consumption.
High-quality resin handle materials are the perfect handle material for knives. They tend to be strong, durable, and stain/rust-resistant.
Other features that an excellent knife handle should have to include a finger guard and triple rivets.
What is the purpose of the knife? It’s vital to understand the purpose of the knife clearly before buying one. For instance, the considerations for a chopping knife are not the same for a meat slicing knife. A meat slicing knife should be sturdy, heavy, excellent edge sharpness and retention.
An onion or fruit chopping knife should be small and lightweight. However, a chopping knife won’t serve you well if you use it to slice meat. Know the purpose and get the knife that suits your needs.
Other essential factors worth considering is the knife’s warranty, cleaning (some are dishwasher safe while others are not), care and maintenance, and storage.
How to properly sharpen a kitchen knife
A properly sharpened knife will give you an easy time, even when dealing with the toughest cutting tasks. Most knives come already sharpened but need to be honed once it loses its sharp edge.
Generally, there are many ways to sharpen a kitchen knife. If you don’t want to do it yourself, you can find these services in most knives selling stores. Here is a DIY step by step guide of sharpening a knife:
Study your knife
Carefully study your knife’s blade type and determine the perfect sharpening tool. Most manufacturers usually recommend specific sharpeners for their knives.
Find your grip
Make sure that your hand is formed well around the handle to avoid injuring yourself. Place the thumb on the blade’s spine, the index finger on the heel, and the other 3 fingers wrapped on the handle. Use the other hand to hold on to the sharpener.
Find the right sharpening angle
Each knife will have a slightly different sharpening angle. It’s upon you to find the right angle for your knife.
Keep the knife against the sharpener with two fingers and move the blade in up and download motions. Be keen to sharpen the entire blade and apply suitable pressure on the blade for it to sharpen. Finish when you feel that the edge is sharp. Do not try it on your finger unless you want to slice it off. Try on a fruit or a potato or with vegetables.
How to use a kitchen knife
A kitchen knife will not serve you well if it’s not used correctly. You need to know how to hold it well for it to work right and also avoid injuring yourself – even a dull knife can cut you if you play around with it. Here are a few tips on how to use a kitchen knife:
To hold the knife – pinch the blade between the thumb and the forefinger. Curl the other 3 fingers firmly around the handle.
Using the knife – this will depend on the specific task being handled. When slicing, keep your fingers clear of the blade and slice away from your hand. Do not slice foods freehand over the plate – you might accidentally slice away your finger. When mincing, the tip of the knife should be down on the cutting board. Then move the handle up and down over the food quickly. Keep your fingers away from the edge. When chopping, curl your fingers under the handle. Hold the food with your fingertips and cut them.
Always keep your knife sharp – a dull knife will crush your foods and may slip causing injuries.
Never use your hand or any part of the body as a cutting board. Unless of course, you would like to slice that part off your body.
In case you cut yourself with the knife, wash the cut, apply an antibiotic cream, and then bandage the wound to prevent it from getting an infection.
Frequently Asked Question’s : About Kitchen Knife
Q.1- What makes a good kitchen knife?
The main determinants of a good kitchen knife include the quality, convenience of use, and durability. As well, a good knife should have a good blade size, sharp edge, excellent edge retention, comfortable and non-slip handle, and a wide variety of uses (can be used for all kitchen purposes such as chopping, slicing, dicing, cutting, and mincing).
Besides, a good knife should be easy to sharpen, clean, and maintain. Also, the knife should be safe for use – should be PFOA and other harmful chemicals free. For more details of what a good kitchen knife should look like, kindly refer to our buying guide above.
Q.2- What brand of kitchen knives are the best?
The Victorinox and Mercer models are among the most respected and best chef knife in the world today. Besides the friendly price these brands offer, their products are durable and are crafted from high-end materials.
Both brands offer razor-like sharp edges, which are easy to sharpen and maintain. While the blade retains its sharpness for long, the blades are strong and resistant to stains and discoloration.
Additionally, these knives are designed to serve multiple kitchen tasks, including cutting, slicing, dicing, and mincing. Also, you get a lifetime warranty for the products.
Other amazing features that make Victorinox and Mercer knives the best is the comfortable ergonomic non-slip handles, high-carbon stainless steel blade construction, and safety for use – all their products are NSF approved and certified.
Q.3- What material is best for kitchen knives?
Among the three primary materials for kitchen knives (stainless steel, carbon steel, and high-carbon stainless steel), high-carbon is undoubtedly the best option as far as quality strength, and durability of the blade is concerned. It offers a sharp edge and has excellent edge retention.
The Carbon steel knife is also quality and offers excellent edge sharpness and retaining abilities. Same to high-carbon material, this knife material requires proper maintenance.
Stainless steel is the most affordable and easy to maintain blade material. It’s easy to clean, and it’s resistant to stains and rust. However, they have poor edge retention capability.
Q.4- Which kitchen knives do I need?
The answer to this question mainly depends on how active you are in your kitchen. An active cook will definitely need a variety of knives in their kitchen. However, nowadays, most kitchen knives have been designed to serve multiple purposes in the kitchen and can, therefore, be used for any cooking task.
This means that you don’t need a different knife for cutting bread and another for chopping. However, there are certain knives designed for specific purposes. You just need to identify your needs and get the type of knife specially designed for that task. Most kitchen knife needs include slicing, chopping, cutting, dicing, mincing, and much more.
Q.5- What is the most versatile kitchen knife?
Featuring a high-carbon ThyssenKrupp German steel blade and a PerfectFit Dalstrong Sheath, the Dalstrong 8″ inch knife Gladiator series is among the most stylish and versatile kitchen knives in our review. It’s fitted with an Ergonomic Spanish Pakkwood handle and a stain/rust-resistant blade that features a razor-like sharp edge.
The Imarku Pro Kitchen Knife is also a versatile knife that features a high-carbon stainless steel blade, comfortable non-slip Pakka handle, and a glossy chrome finish that is resistant to corrosion, tarnish or fading. The unique and sturdy design of the knife, as well as the Ultra-sharp edge, makes this knife efficient for handling even the toughest food preparation tasks.
Overall, all the knives listed in this guide are of suitable value, durable, and can serve multiple kitchen purposes. So, you should buy with confidence. Remember to take proper care of the knives if you want them to serve you right – if you aren’t kind to the knife, then definitely, it won’t be kind to you.
However, you shouldn’t feel limited by our choice of knives. If you feel that you haven’t found the right knife for your kitchen in our best kitchen knives review, just refer to the buying guide we have discussed above and use it to identify a good knife for you. Whatever you decide, we wish the best of luck.
Meta description – this guide features the top 15 kitchen knives to buy in 2019 together with a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best cooking knife for your kitchen.