10 Best Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

The Shun Premier 6" Chef's Knife is a high-quality Japanese kitchen knife well suited for various cooking tasks like slicing, dicing, and mincing. Its 6-inch blade made from VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding offers excellent sharpness and durability, maintaining a precise 16-degree edge that stays sharp longer than many other knives. The hammered tsuchime finish helps reduce food sticking to the blade, making cutting smoother and cleaner. The blade’s shape is traditional chef’s style, which is versatile for most kitchen jobs.

The handle is made of Pakkawood, providing a comfortable and secure grip for both right and left-handed users. At 4.9 ounces, the knife is lightweight and well-balanced, allowing easy handling without fatigue. While it can be washed in a dishwasher, hand washing is recommended to preserve the blade and handle quality over time.

This knife serves as an excellent choice for home cooks or anyone seeking a sharp, durable, and comfortable all-purpose chef’s knife with elegant craftsmanship and a lifetime warranty.

The Shun Premier Blonde 8" Chef's Knife is a beautifully crafted kitchen tool that suits both professional and home chefs. Its blade is made from VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding, offering a sharp edge that holds well for precise slicing, dicing, and mincing. The hammered finish on the blade helps reduce food sticking, making your cutting smoother and quicker. At 8 inches, the blade length is versatile for most kitchen tasks without feeling too bulky.

The handle is made from blonde Pakkawood, shaped to fit comfortably in your hand and provide a secure grip whether you’re left or right-handed. Weighing about 5.6 ounces, the knife balances well, allowing good control without being too heavy or tiring to use. The edge is plain with a 16-degree angle, which is sharper than many Western knives, so it may require careful handling and regular honing to keep in top shape.

One downside to consider is that this knife is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its quality. Additionally, while the handle looks elegant, wooden handles generally need more care over time compared to synthetic alternatives. This knife is a great choice if you value craftsmanship, sharpness, and a comfortable grip, especially if you like cooking with traditional Japanese-style knives.

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.