10 Best Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

The Shun Premier 8-inch Chef's Knife is a standout choice for both novice and experienced cooks, designed to handle a range of kitchen tasks like chopping, slicing, and mincing with ease. One of its strong points is its exceptional sharpness, thanks to the VG-MAX steel and 68 layers of Damascus cladding, which give it a razor-sharp edge that maintains performance over time. The 16-degree edge allows for precise cuts, making food preparation more efficient.

The knife also features a beautifully hammered finish that not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also helps to reduce drag and prevent food from sticking to the blade, enhancing usability. Its Pakkawood handle is another plus; it's ergonomically designed for comfort and provides a secure grip for both right and left-handed users. This focus on craftsmanship reflects Shun's commitment to quality, as each knife is handcrafted in Japan and comes with a lifetime warranty, including free sharpening and honing services.

The Shun Premier Chef's Knife is best suited for those who appreciate quality and are willing to invest in a reliable kitchen tool. Its blend of sharpness, comfort, and aesthetic appeal makes it a worthy addition to any culinary setting.

The Dalstrong Chef Knife from the Scorpion Series offers impressive features, making it suitable for serious cooks and professional chefs. The blade material is exceptional, forged from Dalstrong’s V12 Ultra Steel and layered with 69 layers of Black Spiral Damascus. This ensures durability and precision in slicing through meats, vegetables, and more with minimal resistance, thanks to its razor-thin 8-12° edge. The 9.5-inch blade length is optimal for a variety of kitchen tasks, from rock chops to portioning meats, while the curved belly and stinger-like tip add versatility in use.

The handle is a blend of red and black resin reinforced with honeycomb aluminum mesh, designed to provide superior durability, shock absorption, and comfort. Its lightweight nature helps reduce wrist strain, and the downward arch of the scorpion tail ensures perfect balance, making it easy to control during high-velocity kitchen work. The knife's weight of 1.68 pounds might be slightly heavier than some chefs prefer, but it contributes to its sturdy feel.

Additionally, it is dishwasher safe and stain-resistant, which simplifies maintenance. The inclusion of a leather sheath adds to the protection and portability of the knife. The price point may be a consideration for some, and it ranks moderately in popularity among chef knives. However, with a lifetime warranty and satisfaction guarantee, it's a reliable choice for those seeking quality and craftsmanship in their kitchen tools.

The Mercer Culinary M22608 Millennia 8-Inch Chef's Knife is crafted from high-carbon Japanese steel, providing excellent edge maintenance and long-lasting sharpness. The 8-inch blade length is ideal for a variety of kitchen tasks, including chopping, mincing, and slicing. Its plain blade edge ensures clean and precise cuts, making it suitable for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts.

The knife has a stamped construction, which may not be as durable as forged alternatives, but it still offers good performance for everyday use. The ergonomic Santoprene handle with textured finger points provides a non-slip grip, adding comfort and safety during use. Weighing 6.7 ounces, the knife offers good balance, making it easy to handle for extended periods.

It requires careful hand washing to maintain its performance and longevity, as it is not dishwasher safe. While some users might prefer a forged knife for added durability, this chef's knife stands out for its affordability, quality construction, and user-friendly design. It is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and well-balanced knife for general kitchen use.