10 Best Nakiri Knives 2026 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 Shun Premier 3-Piece Asian Flat Set includes an 8-inch Kiritsuke, 7-inch Santoku, and a 5.5-inch Nakiri knife, making it a versatile starter set for those interested in Japanese-style kitchen knives. The blades are made from VG-MAX steel, known for strong sharpness and durability, and feature 68 layers of Damascus cladding that add both beauty and some resistance to food sticking. The hammered tsuchime finish on the blades helps reduce drag, which is a nice touch for smoother cutting and less sticking of vegetables—important for a nakiri knife that is mainly used for chopping. The blade edges are finely sharpened at 16 degrees, offering precise and clean cuts, which is great for detailed vegetable prep.

The handles are made of Pakkawood, which is comfortable and designed to fit well in the hand, providing good control whether you are left- or right-handed. At 2.1 pounds for the whole set, these knives have a balanced feel that should suit most home cooks, though the weight might feel slightly hefty for those used to lighter blades. The forged blade construction adds strength and precision, and the knives are dishwasher safe, which can be convenient, but hand washing is usually recommended to maintain sharpness longer.

This set is highly praised for its craftsmanship and aesthetics, though it may be on the pricier side for casual users or those specifically wanting only a nakiri knife rather than a multi-piece set. Some might find the steel handles less traditional compared to wooden ones. If you want a high-quality, Japanese-made set that covers a range of cutting tasks with a standout nakiri knife included, the Shun Premier 3-Piece Set offers a combination of sharpness, style, and comfort.

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.