10 Best Santoku Knife Sets 2025 in the United States

The Shun Classic 9 Piece Chef’s Block Set offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality knives, including an 8-inch Chef's Knife and a 5.5-inch Santoku Knife, among others. The set's blades are made from VG-MAX steel, featuring 68 layers of Damascus cladding, which ensures exceptional sharpness and durability. The 16-degree edge allows for precise cutting, making it a great choice for those who value performance in the kitchen.

The D-shaped Pakkawood handles are designed for comfort and control, suitable for both right and left-handed users, enhancing the user experience. This set also includes a convenient 22-slot bamboo knife block for organized storage and a honing steel for maintenance. Each knife is handcrafted in Japan, reflecting traditional craftsmanship and high standards of quality.

On the downside, the knives require hand washing, which can be less convenient for some users. Additionally, the set is relatively heavy at 11.6 pounds, potentially making it cumbersome to move. The premium materials and craftsmanship also come at a higher price point, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. For those looking for a durable and sharp knife set with a classic aesthetic, this Shun set could be an excellent choice.

The Shun Premier 8 Piece Professional Block Set is a high-quality choice for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts. This set includes an 8-inch Chef’s Knife, 4-inch Paring Knife, 6.5-inch Utility Knife, 9-inch Bread Knife, 5.5-inch Santoku Knife, 9.5-inch Slicing Knife, Honing Steel, and an elegant Bamboo Knife Block. The knives are crafted from VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding, ensuring superior sharpness and durability.

The hammered tsuchime finish on each blade reduces drag and prevents food from sticking, making cutting tasks smoother and more efficient. The handles are made from Pakkawood, offering a comfortable and secure grip, suitable for both left and right-handed users. Weighing 11.85 pounds and featuring an 11-slot block, the set is well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing in any kitchen.

However, the premium quality comes at a higher price point, which may not be suitable for all budgets. Additionally, these knives require hand washing and regular maintenance to maintain their sharpness, which might be inconvenient for some users. This set is ideal for those looking for a blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern functionality in their kitchen tools.

The Global 20 Piece Knife Block Set is a comprehensive collection of knives made from Cromova 18 high carbon stainless steel, known for its durability and sharpness. The set includes an array of knives such as paring, utility, prep, nakiri, boning, carving, and chef's knives, along with steak knives, a sharpening rod, and kitchen shears, all housed in a stylish walnut-finished ash wood block. The blades are ice-tempered and boast a Rockwell Hardness of 58°, ensuring they maintain a sharp edge longer.

Each knife features a 15-degree double bevel edge, enhancing sharpness and edge stability, making them highly effective for various kitchen tasks. The handles are made of stainless steel with a signature dimple pattern for a comfortable and slip-resistant grip. The handles are also weighted with sand to ensure excellent balance. However, it's important to note that these knives are not dishwasher safe and must be hand-washed with gentle dish soap and dried promptly to maintain their condition.

At 14.7 pounds, the set is relatively heavy, which could be a consideration for those with limited counter space or who prefer lighter knives. With dimensions of 20 inches in length, 14 inches in width, and 10 inches in height, the knife block set is substantial and may require adequate space in your kitchen. Made in Japan, this set comes with a limited lifetime warranty, affirming its quality and longevity. Given its price and the breadth of its offerings, it's best suited for serious home cooks or professional chefs looking for a high-quality, versatile knife set.