10 Best Santoku Knife 2025 in the United States

The Mercer Culinary M22707 Millennia Santoku Knife is a solid choice for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts. The blade, made from high-carbon Japanese steel, is known for durability and long-lasting sharpness, making it easy to maintain. The 7-inch blade length is versatile for various kitchen tasks like chopping, mincing, and cutting, and its Granton edge helps reduce sticking, making slicing smoother, especially for softer foods like cheese and vegetables.

The handle is made from Santoprene and features textured finger points for a non-slip grip, enhancing safety and comfort during use. Its ergonomic design provides good control and reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. It's important to note that the knife is not dishwasher safe and requires careful hand washing to maintain its performance and longevity. If you prefer low-maintenance kitchen tools, this may be a drawback.

The knife weighs just 3.17 ounces, contributing to its ease of use and maneuverability, though some users might find it too light and prefer a more substantial feel for better balance. The construction is stamped rather than forged, which may affect durability and perceived quality. In essence, the Mercer Culinary Millennia Santoku Knife excels in sharpness, ergonomic design, and versatility, offering precision and comfort despite the need for hand washing and its light weight being a potential downside for some.

The Dalstrong 3pc Knife Set from the Gladiator Series Elite presents a versatile collection for any kitchen, featuring an 8” chef knife, a 7” Santoku knife, and a paring knife, catering to a range of cutting tasks. The standout feature is the use of high-carbon German steel for the blade, known for its durability and sharpness. The blades are full-tang and polished to a precise 16-18 degrees edge, offering a reliable cutting experience with an impressive Rockwell hardness rating of 57+. This ensures the knives maintain their edge well over time. The handles are crafted from ultra-premium G-10 fiberglass, providing military-grade durability, comfort, and superior control. However, users should note that these knives are not dishwasher safe, requiring hand washing to maintain their quality.

In terms of balance and weight, the set weighs 1.7 pounds, offering a satisfying heft that contributes to its stability and ease of handling. The design is award-winning, with ergonomic considerations to enhance comfort during prolonged use. Each knife comes with its own PerfectFit sheath, making it convenient for storage and transport.

While the set is labeled NSF certified, which assures sanitary safety, some users might find the set's price point a bit high. The knives are highly rated with a 4.7-star average from over 3,200 reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction. The set is ideal for both professional chefs and home cooks who value quality and reliability in their kitchen tools. With the added benefit of a lifetime warranty, Dalstrong offers a trustworthy investment, though it's important to consider if the need for manual care aligns with the user's lifestyle.

The HexClad Santoku Knife is a versatile kitchen tool with a 7-inch Japanese Damascus stainless steel blade, making it suitable for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables with precision. The 67-layer Damascus steel construction ensures the blade stays sharp for extended periods, which is a significant advantage for those who frequently cook.

The knife is crafted using the 3-step Honbazuke method, which provides a sharp 12-degree cutting edge, balancing hardness and flexibility. This means it can handle various kitchen tasks efficiently without losing its edge quickly. The Pakkawood handle adds to the knife's ergonomic design, offering a comfortable and secure grip, which is essential for control and safety during use. However, the knife is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing and frequent honing to maintain its sharpness, which might be a drawback for those looking for low-maintenance kitchen tools.

Weighing 9.9 ounces, the knife is well-balanced, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. With a lifetime warranty against manufacturer's defects, it provides peace of mind, although certain misuses can void this warranty. If you’re looking for a high-quality, multi-purpose kitchen knife, the HexClad Santoku Knife is a strong contender, especially for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and durability of Japanese Damascus steel.