10 Best Nakiri Knives 2026 in the United States

The Shun Classic 6.5" Nakiri Knife is a standout choice for anyone passionate about preparing vegetables, whether at home or in a professional kitchen. One of its key strengths is the blade material; made with VG-MAX steel and 68 layers of Damascus cladding, it offers incredible sharpness and durability. The 16-degree edge provides precision cutting, making it ideal for slicing and dicing with ease. The comfortable D-shaped Pakkawood handle ensures a secure grip, accommodating both left and right-handed users, which enhances the user experience.

A significant benefit of this knife is its craftsmanship. Handcrafted in Japan, it reflects a legacy of traditional knife-making, ensuring that each piece is not only functional but also a work of art. The limited lifetime warranty and free sharpening service add to the appeal, as they promise lasting use and support.

The Shun Classic Nakiri Knife is a superb choice for vegetable preparation, offering excellent sharpness and beautiful craftsmanship. It's perfect for serious cooks who appreciate quality tools, but if you're looking for a more versatile or lower-maintenance option, you might want to explore other knives.

The Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-inch Usuba Knife is crafted from high-carbon Japanese steel, which holds a sharp edge well and is relatively easy to maintain. With a 7-inch blade length, it offers a good size for chopping and slicing vegetables, typical for nakiri-style knives. The stamped steel construction suggests it's designed for everyday kitchen use rather than heavy-duty chopping.

The handle is made of Santoprene, a textured, rubber-like material that provides a comfortable, non-slip grip, helping with control and safety during use. Weighing just over 2 ounces, this knife is quite lightweight, which may allow for nimble, precise cuts, though some users might prefer a bit more heft for balance. The knife is designed for hand washing only to keep the blade in top condition, so it requires a little extra care.

This model is a strong choice for those wanting an affordable, sharp, and comfortable knife primarily for slicing and chopping vegetables. However, it may lack some of the specialized features and blade thickness found in traditional Japanese nakiri knives, given its stamped rather than forged construction. Users seeking a heavier, more traditional nakiri might consider exploring forged options.

The HexClad Nakiri Knife is a well-crafted option for anyone who regularly chops vegetables and values precision and durability. It features a 6.5-inch blade made from 67 layers of Japanese Damascus high carbon stainless steel, which means the blade is not only sharp but also designed to stay sharp longer due to its hardness and flexibility from the advanced Honbazuke heat treatment. Its double beveled edge and typical rectangular shape with a blunted tip make it especially good for clean, bruise-free slicing and chopping of produce.

The 4.4-inch Pakkawood handle is ergonomic and comfortable, providing good control while working. At 1.21 pounds, the knife has a balanced feel that helps reduce hand fatigue during extended use. It requires careful hand washing to maintain its quality, and the warranty does not cover damage from misuse, which means it’s best suited for users who handle and store their knives properly.

This knife represents a solid choice for home cooks who want a durable, sharp nakiri knife that performs well on vegetables, although it may need a bit more care compared to simpler stainless steel knives.