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10 Best Nakiri Knives 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PAUDIN Nakiri Knife - 7" Razor Sharp Meat Cleaver and Vegetable Kitchen Knife, High Carbon Stainless Steel, Multipurpose Asian Chef Knife for Home and Kitchen with Ergonomic Handle

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,241
Weight and Balance

Most important from
3892 reviews

Weight and Balance
This knife has become my go-to for chopping vegetables and slicing meat, offering a quality feel with ideal weight.

The PAUDIN Nakiri Knife is a versatile kitchen tool designed for tasks like slicing, dicing, chopping, and mincing. With a 7-inch blade made from 5Cr15Mov high carbon stainless steel, it provides a razor-sharp cutting edge that's easy to maintain. This steel is known for its durability and rust resistance, similar to materials used by well-known cutlery brands. The ergonomic pakkawood handle ensures a comfortable grip and balanced control, making it easier to handle even for extended periods. The knife weights 7.9 ounces, which provides a good balance without feeling too heavy or too light.

The wave pattern on the blade not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also helps reduce food friction, making it easier to clean. However, the knife is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand washing. It's also important to note that the blade is not genuine Damascus steel, which might be a consideration for some users. With a high customer rating and a lifetime warranty against defects, this knife could be a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who need a reliable, multipurpose knife for various cooking tasks.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,241
Weight and Balance

Most important from
3892 reviews

Weight and Balance
This knife has become my go-to for chopping vegetables and slicing meat, offering a quality feel with ideal weight.
#2

Dalstrong Nakiri Knife - 7 inch - Valhalla Series - 9CR18MOV High Carbon Steel - Vegetable Kitchen Knife - Celestial Resin & Wood Handle - Razor Sharp Asian Knife Gift- w/Sheath

Rating
9.8
Blade Material
Weight and Balance

Most important from
372 reviews

Blade Material
Great looking, sharp, and holds its edge well. It just feels like good quality.
Weight and Balance
This Nakiri knife is outstanding, from the heft and balance in the handle to the razor-sharp blade.

The Dalstrong Nakiri Knife from the Valhalla Series is a beautifully designed and highly functional kitchen knife. The blade, made from 9CR18MOV high carbon steel, ensures durability and sharpness with a hardness rating of 60+ Rockwell. At 7 inches, the blade length is ideal for slicing vegetables, and its ultra-straight design with an 8-12 degree edge makes it very efficient for precision cuts.

The knife is not only functional but also an eye-catcher with a celestial resin and stabilized wood handle, providing both sturdiness and a unique aesthetic. The stainless steel bolster adds to the balance and weight distribution, making it comfortable to handle. Additionally, the knife comes with a Valhalla-embossed leather sheath, adding an extra layer of protection and making it easier to store or transport.

However, the distinct aesthetic of the handle might not appeal to everyone, and the resin material, while durable, may not offer the same traditional feel as other handle materials. This knife is well-suited for those who appreciate a combination of visual appeal and high performance in their kitchen tools. It is particularly ideal for home cooks and chefs who frequently prepare vegetables and are looking for a reliable, sharp, and stylish addition to their kitchen arsenal.

Rating
9.8
Blade Material
Weight and Balance

Most important from
372 reviews

Blade Material
Great looking, sharp, and holds its edge well. It just feels like good quality.
Weight and Balance
This Nakiri knife is outstanding, from the heft and balance in the handle to the razor-sharp blade.
#3

Mercer Culinary M20907 Genesis 7-Inch Nakiri Vegetable Knife,Black

Rating
9.7
Blade Material
Weight and Balance

Most important from
650 reviews

Blade Material
Mercer knives never disappoint, staying sharp and reliable.
Weight and Balance
It sharpens very nicely, the balance is good, and it feels good in my hand.

The Mercer Culinary M20907 Genesis Nakiri Vegetable Knife features a 7-inch blade made from high-carbon German steel, providing excellent durability and long-lasting sharpness. The blade's taper-ground edge ensures efficient cutting, making it ideal for chopping, mincing, and slicing vegetables. The handle is constructed from Santoprene, which offers a comfortable, ergonomic grip that remains non-slip even when wet, enhancing safety and precision during use.

Weighing only 4 ounces, the knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to handle for extended periods without causing fatigue. However, the knife requires careful hand-washing with warm water and mild soap to maintain its performance and longevity, as it is not dishwasher safe.

This knife is suited for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts who value a high-quality, durable tool in their kitchen. Potential buyers should be prepared for the additional maintenance required to keep this knife in top condition.

Rating
9.7
Blade Material
Weight and Balance

Most important from
650 reviews

Blade Material
Mercer knives never disappoint, staying sharp and reliable.
Weight and Balance
It sharpens very nicely, the balance is good, and it feels good in my hand.

Buying Guide for the Best Nakiri Knives

Nakiri knives are traditional Japanese vegetable knives known for their rectangular shape and straight edge. They are designed to make precise, clean cuts through vegetables, making them a favorite among chefs and home cooks who prioritize efficiency and precision in their vegetable preparation. When choosing a Nakiri knife, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs.
Blade MaterialThe blade material of a Nakiri knife is crucial as it affects the knife's sharpness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and Damascus steel. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making it ideal for everyday use. High-carbon steel is extremely sharp and holds its edge well but requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Damascus steel is known for its beautiful patterns and combines the benefits of both stainless and high-carbon steel. Choose stainless steel for low maintenance, high-carbon steel for superior sharpness, and Damascus steel for a balance of aesthetics and performance.
Blade LengthBlade length determines how much cutting surface you have and can affect the knife's maneuverability. Nakiri knives typically range from 5 to 7 inches in length. A shorter blade (around 5 inches) offers more control and is easier to handle, making it suitable for smaller vegetables and precision tasks. A longer blade (around 7 inches) provides a larger cutting surface, which is useful for slicing larger vegetables and making longer cuts. Choose a blade length based on the size of the vegetables you commonly prepare and your comfort level with handling the knife.
Blade ThicknessBlade thickness impacts the knife's weight and cutting performance. Thinner blades (around 2-3 mm) are lighter and allow for more precise, delicate cuts, making them ideal for fine vegetable work. Thicker blades (around 3-4 mm) are sturdier and can handle tougher vegetables but may not offer the same level of precision. Consider a thinner blade for tasks requiring finesse and a thicker blade for more robust cutting needs.
Handle MaterialThe handle material affects the knife's comfort, grip, and durability. Common handle materials include wood, plastic, and composite materials. Wooden handles offer a traditional look and feel but may require more maintenance to prevent cracking. Plastic handles are durable, easy to clean, and often more affordable. Composite handles combine the benefits of both wood and plastic, offering durability and a comfortable grip. Choose a handle material based on your preference for aesthetics, comfort, and maintenance.
Weight and BalanceThe weight and balance of a Nakiri knife influence how it feels in your hand and how easy it is to control. A well-balanced knife will feel comfortable and stable, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Lighter knives are easier to maneuver and cause less strain, while heavier knives can provide more cutting power. Test the knife in your hand if possible to find a weight and balance that feels comfortable for you, considering how long you typically use the knife and the types of vegetables you cut.

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