10 Best Santoku Knives 2026 in the United States

The Mercer Culinary M22707 Millennia Santoku knife is a solid choice for everyday kitchen tasks such as chopping, mincing, and slicing. Its 7-inch blade, made from high-carbon Japanese steel, helps the edge stay sharp longer and makes maintenance easier. This blade length is versatile enough for most cutting jobs without feeling too bulky, featuring a plain edge ideal for clean, precise cuts, especially on vegetables and herbs.

The handle is crafted from Santoprene, a soft yet durable material, with textured finger points that offer a secure and comfortable grip, reducing slipping during use. Weighing just over 3 ounces, the knife is light and well balanced, allowing for easy control even during extended periods of use. It should be hand washed and dried immediately to maintain its quality, as it is not dishwasher safe and may be damaged if submerged for long durations.

Although the knife is stamped rather than forged—which typically means it may be less robust than forged knives—it still delivers good performance for home cooks and professionals seeking a reliable, affordable santoku. Its design emphasizes comfort and durability, making it a practical tool for daily kitchen preparation. However, those preferring a heavier or forged blade, or requiring dishwasher-safe utensils, might find this knife less suited to their needs.

The Shun Premier 7" Santoku Knife stands out as an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile kitchen tool. With its VG-MAX core and 68 layers of Damascus stainless steel, this knife offers exceptional sharpness and durability. The blade's 16-degree edge provides precise cutting for various ingredients, making it suitable for slicing vegetables, proteins, and fruits alike.

A notable feature is the hammered finish that not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also helps reduce drag while cutting, preventing food from sticking to the blade. This is particularly beneficial when working with sticky items like potatoes or cheese.

The knife's handle is made of Pakkawood, which is designed for comfort and control, accommodating both left and right-handed users comfortably. Weighing in at just 7.5 ounces, it strikes a good balance that makes it easy to maneuver without feeling too heavy. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this knife may not be ideal for everyone. While it's dishwasher safe, regular washing can dull the blade over time, so hand washing is recommended for longevity. Additionally, as a high-end knife, it comes with a higher price tag compared to many other Santoku knives on the market, which might not fit every budget.

The Shun Premier 3 Piece Asian Flat Set is a well-crafted collection featuring an 8-inch Kiritsuke, 7-inch Santoku, and 5.5-inch Nakiri knife. The blades are made from VG-MAX steel, known for its excellent sharpness and durability, and are wrapped in 68 layers of Damascus cladding which adds toughness and a beautiful finish. The hammered tsuchime texture on the blade helps reduce food sticking, making cutting smoother and more enjoyable. Each knife has a plain edge sharpened to a 16-degree angle, offering precise and clean cuts – something especially useful when slicing vegetables or fish. The handles are made of contoured Pakkawood, designed for a comfortable and secure grip, suitable for both left- and right-handed users.

At about 2.1 pounds total, the set feels balanced but leans a bit heavier than some might prefer, which could affect long prep sessions. The knives are forged, lending strength and stability to the blades, and the set comes with free sharpening support, ensuring they stay sharp over time. While the handles are stylish and durable, being made of wood composite means extra care is needed to avoid damage from prolonged dishwasher exposure despite the product being labeled dishwasher safe.

This set is ideal for home cooks who want a versatile, high-quality santoku knife along with complementary knives for various cutting tasks, though it might be a bit of an investment for casual users. For those who value Japanese craftsmanship and sharp, comfortable knives for daily kitchen use, this set delivers a nice balance of style and performance.