10 Best Nakiri Knives 2025 in the United States

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.

The SHAN ZU Nakiri knife is a solid choice if you want a sharp, durable kitchen knife primarily for chopping vegetables. Its blade is made from 10Cr15Mov Damascus Japanese steel, known for high hardness (62 HRC), rust resistance, and wear resistance, which means it should stay sharp longer and resist corrosion. The blade features a genuine 67-layer Damascus pattern formed through folding and forging, giving it both strength and an attractive look that won't fade since it's not just etched on. The blade length of 6.5 inches is typical for nakiri knives, providing good control for precise vegetable cuts. At 2.2 mm thick, it strikes a balance between thin enough for clean slicing and thick enough for durability.

The handle is made from G10 glass fiber, offering a comfortable, ergonomic grip that feels solid and balanced with the blade, making it easier to handle during long prep tasks. Weighing about 270 grams (1.05 pounds total), it has enough heft to feel sturdy without being tiring to use. One minor drawback is that while it’s dishwasher safe, hand washing is generally better to maintain the sharp edge and handle condition long-term. Also, the 15° cutting angle is typical for Japanese knives, meaning it’s very sharp but might require careful handling if you’re used to Western-style knives with a wider angle.

This knife is ideal for home cooks who want a professional-quality nakiri without breaking the bank, especially if you prepare a lot of vegetables. The 12-month warranty adds peace of mind. It offers a good blend of traditional Japanese steel with modern materials, designed to perform well in everyday kitchen use.