10 Best Nakiri Knives 2026 in the United States

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 HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife stands out for its exceptional sharpness and versatility, making it a great addition to any kitchen, particularly for those who enjoy preparing vegetables and meats. Crafted from high-quality Japanese AUS-10 high carbon stainless steel, the blade boasts a hardness of 60HRC, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance even with frequent use. Its ultra-sharp 15-degree edge allows for effortless slicing, dicing, and chopping, which can significantly enhance efficiency in meal prep.

The ergonomic pakkawood handle is designed to fit comfortably in hand, reducing fatigue during extended use. This thoughtful design aspect is particularly important for home cooks or professionals who spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Additionally, the knife features an attractive scallop-shaped hollow pit on the side, which not only adds to its visual appeal but also helps prevent food from sticking to the blade during cutting.

While the knife is marketed as a multi-functional tool, it may not perform as well with tough meats or bones compared to specialized knives. The blade's sharpness does require regular maintenance, including honing and sharpening, to keep it in prime condition. Also, due to its high carbon content, the blade may be prone to rusting if not properly cared for, which could be a concern for users unfamiliar with high-maintenance kitchen tools.

The Mercer Culinary M21067 Genesis Nakiri knife is a solid choice for anyone who wants a reliable vegetable knife. Its 7-inch blade is made from high-carbon German steel, which means it stays sharp for a long time and can handle frequent chopping and slicing without dulling quickly. The blade is forged, giving it strength and durability, and the taper-ground edge helps make cutting more efficient.

The handle is made from Santoprene, a soft, non-slip material that feels comfortable and secure, even if your hands are wet, which is great for kitchen safety and ease of use. Weighing just 8.4 ounces, the knife is light enough for easy handling but well-balanced enough to give you control during precise vegetable cutting. It is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing and careful drying to maintain its quality, which might be a slight inconvenience if you prefer low-maintenance tools.

This knife is an excellent fit for both home cooks and professionals who want a dependable, sharp, and comfortable nakiri for daily vegetable chopping tasks.