10 Best Chef Knives 2026 in the United States

The Dalstrong Valhalla Series 9.5-inch Chef Knife is designed to be a strong and reliable tool for both professional chefs and serious home cooks. Its blade is made from 9CR18MOV high carbon stainless steel, which is known for holding a sharp edge well and resisting wear over time. At 9.5 inches, the blade is a versatile length that suits a wide range of kitchen tasks, from slicing vegetables to cutting meat. The forged construction adds durability and balance, giving the knife a solid feel during use.

The edge is sharpened to a very fine angle (8-12 degrees per side), making it razor-sharp and precise, which is great for detailed cutting work. The blade shape is a classic chef’s style, making it easy to rock the knife while chopping. The handle combines celestial resin with stabilized wood and includes a stainless steel bolster, offering both comfort and a secure grip. This combination also gives the knife a distinctive and attractive look. Weighing about 1.9 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some other chef knives, which can provide extra control but might feel a bit tiring during very long prep sessions.

The knife comes with a leather sheath, which is a nice bonus for safe storage and transport. While it is dishwasher safe, hand washing is usually recommended to maintain the sharpness and finish. The Dalstrong brand offers a lifetime warranty and strong customer support, which adds confidence in the knife’s quality. This knife suits cooks who want a durable, sharp, and well-balanced chef knife with a stylish handle and don’t mind a bit of extra weight. It may be less ideal for those who prefer ultra-light knives or want a very budget-friendly option.

The MAC Knife Professional series 8" Chef's knife, specifically the MTH-80 model, is a solid choice for home cooks and culinary enthusiasts looking for a reliable and efficient tool in the kitchen. One of its standout features is the 2.5mm alloy steel blade, which not only offers impressive sharpness but also includes dimples that aid in cutting through sticky foods like potatoes and apples with ease. This design helps minimize sticking, making food prep quicker and cleaner.

Another advantage is its lightweight construction, weighing in at just 10 ounces, which allows for comfortable handling during extended use. The 8-inch blade length strikes a good balance between maneuverability and cutting capacity, making it versatile for various tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats.

The handle is made from durable Pakka wood, providing a comfortable grip, though it does require hand washing to maintain its quality, as it is not dishwasher safe. This may be a minor inconvenience for some users but is typical for high-quality kitchen tools that prioritize longevity. The MAC Knife Professional series 8" Chef's knife is best suited for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a premium kitchen tool. Its blend of lightweight design, sharp blade, and effective dimpling makes it a reliable companion in any kitchen, particularly for those who often work with sticky ingredients.

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.