10 Best Santoku Knife 2025 in the United States

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.

The Dalstrong Santoku Knife from the Valhalla Series is a 7-inch knife designed for versatility in the kitchen, making it suitable for slicing, dicing, and mincing. Crafted from 9CR18MOV high carbon steel, the blade promises durability and a sharp edge, rated at 60+ on the Rockwell hardness scale and hand-sharpened to a fine 8-12 degrees per side. This makes it a strong choice for precision work and heavy use in the kitchen.

The knife features a unique celestial resin handle reinforced with stabilized wood and a stainless steel bolster, offering a sturdy grip and appealing aesthetics. It also comes with a Valhalla-embossed leather sheath for protection and style. At 9.3 ounces, it is relatively lightweight, balancing ease of handling with a solid feel. While the knife is dishwasher safe, hand washing is typically recommended for longevity.

This knife is well-suited for those looking for a high-performance, versatile kitchen knife with a distinct design. It makes a compelling gift for cooking enthusiasts, thanks to its quality construction and durability. Potential drawbacks include its price point, which may be higher than more basic knives, and its unique design might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the high carbon steel, while providing sharpness, may require more frequent maintenance to prevent rust compared to stainless steel options.

The WÜSTHOF Classic IKON 7" Hollow Edge Santoku Knife is a high-quality kitchen tool designed for precision and ease of use, especially suited for those who want a reliable all-purpose knife with some Asian-style features. Its blade is made from high carbon stainless steel, which means it stays sharp longer and resists rust well. The 7-inch length is a versatile size, making it handy for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients without being too bulky.

The hollow edge has small indentations along the blade that help reduce food sticking, which is great when cutting moist or sticky items like vegetables or fish. The blade is forged from a single piece of steel and sharpened to a precise angle, offering sharpness and durability that many cooks will appreciate. The handle is made from a sturdy alloy steel with a sleek black finish and a double bolster, providing excellent balance and a comfortable grip—this helps reduce hand fatigue during longer prep sessions.

The knife is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand washing to maintain its quality. While the listed weight seems unusually light, the design emphasizes good balance, which is important for control and comfort. This knife suits home cooks or professionals looking for a precise, well-balanced santoku with a sharp, long-lasting edge and a comfortable handle. It may be less ideal if a dishwasher-safe or very lightweight knife is preferred, but for those valuing quality and sharpness, it is a solid choice.