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 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 Dalstrong Santoku Knife from the Spartan Ghost Series is a high-performance kitchen tool that excels in versatility and durability. One of its standout features is the premium S35VN powdered steel used for the blade. This material is known for its exceptional edge retention and resilience, making it particularly suitable for those who want a long-lasting, sharp knife. The knife’s Rockwell hardness of 61+ ensures it maintains its sharpness longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.

With a 7-inch blade length, this santoku knife offers a good balance between control and cutting capability, making it ideal for slicing, dicing, and mincing both meat and vegetables. However, it's worth noting that the blade length is slightly shorter than specified at 6 inches, which may affect cutting efficiency for larger items.

The handle is crafted from a striking combination of blood-red resin and black ash wood, designed to provide comfort and control. The D-shape fits well in the hand, offering a secure grip which is beneficial for precision tasks in the kitchen. However, the handle material is described as Polyoxymethylene (POM) in the specs, which may not offer the same premium feel as wood-resin combinations but does ensure durability.

At 1.32 pounds, the knife is on the heavier side for a santoku, which could be a drawback for users preferring lighter tools. Yet, this weight may contribute to a better balance. It's dishwasher safe, adding convenience for those who prefer machine cleaning, though hand-washing is recommended to maintain the blade’s quality.

The Dalstrong Santoku Knife is a robust and stylish option for home chefs looking for a reliable kitchen knife. It's very well-suited to those who value cutting performance and edge retention, though its weight may not suit everyone’s preference.