10 Best 8 Chef Knife 2025 in the United States

The WÜSTHOF Classic 8" Chef’s Knife is a reliable and versatile kitchen tool ideal for both home cooks and professional chefs. It features a forged blade made from high carbon stainless steel, known for its sharpness and durability, tempered to maintain a strong edge longer than many other knives. The blade length of about 8 inches is perfect for a wide range of tasks like chopping, slicing, and dicing, making it a true all-purpose knife.

The handle is made from a synthetic material designed to be ergonomic and comfortable, with triple rivets for added strength and stability. Weighing 8.5 ounces, the knife has a good balance—not too heavy to tire your hand, yet substantial enough for controlled cutting. The blade edge is plain, which is standard for chef’s knives and works well for smooth, precise cuts. It is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain its quality.

The knife also includes a full bolster and finger guard, adding safety and balance during use. Since it is made in Germany with a long tradition of quality, this knife tends to last many years with proper care. Although it comes at a higher price point, the sharpness, edge retention, and comfortable handle make it a strong choice for anyone wanting a dependable, well-built chef’s knife.

The Mercer Culinary Millennia 8-inch chef's knife is a solid choice for home cooks and professionals looking for an affordable, reliable tool. It features a high-carbon Japanese steel blade known for being stain-resistant and easy to sharpen, which helps keep a sharp edge with less effort. The 8-inch blade length is versatile for most kitchen tasks, from slicing vegetables to cutting meat. The blade has a hollow edge, which creates small air pockets to reduce sticking and improve slicing performance.

The handle combines Santoprene and polypropylene, making it comfortable to hold and durable. It also has textured finger points for a secure grip and a protective finger guard, enhancing safety during use. Weighing just under 5 ounces, this knife is light enough for comfortable control over extended prep work.

The blade is stamped rather than forged, which may make it less robust or balanced compared to higher-end forged knives. It requires hand washing to preserve the blade and handle materials, so it is not dishwasher safe. This knife offers good sharpness, comfort, and safety features at a budget-friendly price, making it suitable for everyday kitchen use but less ideal for users seeking a top-tier professional-grade knife.

The WÜSTHOF Classic Tasty Sumac 8" Chef's Knife is a solid choice for home cooks who want a reliable, all-purpose kitchen tool. Its blade is made from high carbon stainless steel, which means it stays sharp longer and resists rust. The 8-inch blade length is versatile and good for slicing, chopping, and dicing tasks. The knife is forged from a single piece of steel, giving it strength and balance that helps with precise cutting. It weighs about 9.4 ounces, which is light enough for comfortable daily use without feeling flimsy.

The handle is made of metal with a striking Tasty Sumac color and brass rivets, combining durability with a unique look, though some may find metal handles less grippy compared to textured ones. The blade has a plain edge, ideal for clean cuts on vegetables, meats, and herbs. It requires hand washing to maintain the blade and the handle’s appearance, and it's best to avoid cutting on hard surfaces like glass or ceramic to keep the edge sharp.

This knife suits anyone wanting a dependable chef’s knife with a touch of style and strong build quality, especially if you appreciate craftsmanship from a brand with a long tradition. For those who prefer a softer handle grip or a dishwasher-safe option, considering other models might be advisable.