10 Best Chef Knives 2025 in the United States

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.

The KAWAHIRO Japanese Chef Knife is a finely crafted kitchen tool that combines traditional artistry with high-performance materials. Its blade is made from VG10 super triple alloy steel—known for excellent hardness and long-lasting sharpness—measuring about 8.25 inches, which is a versatile size suitable for many cutting tasks. The black forged blade has a plain edge, giving you clean, precise cuts ideal for slicing vegetables, meat, or fish.

The knife features a carefully balanced design weighing just under 7 ounces, making it feel nimble yet sturdy in your hand, which helps reduce fatigue during extended use. The handle stands out with a luxurious blend of ebony, turquoise, and premium ruby wood, shaped ergonomically to fit comfortably and securely, providing good control even for less experienced users. One thing to note is that it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain the blade’s sharpness and handle’s finish.

Packaged in a beautiful wooden box, this knife also makes an impressive gift for cooking enthusiasts. While it ranks well among chef’s knives, those who prefer a lightweight or plastic handle might find the wood handle a bit more delicate and requiring care. This knife is ideal for home cooks and professional chefs seeking a sharp, reliable, and visually striking chef’s knife that balances tradition with modern quality.