Due to many inquiries from our customers regarding the choice of a kitchen knife, we have prepared a kitchen knife ranking, which is also a guide for the buyer. But don’t worry, all the kitchen knives we sell are of the best quality and will satisfy the best chefs and sushi masters. Our 2022 kitchen knife ranking concerns Gyuto, which are the most popular and versatile chef’s knives in the Western style, and is based on both sales results and our own experiences and reviews from our customers. Professional kitchen knives ranking.
Why Japanese kitchen knives?
Japanese knives are known as some of the best kitchen knives in the world. The Japanese pride themselves on their rich forging heritage and attention to detail. Japanese knives are incredibly precise when cutting and can make the thinnest cuts, making them ideal for slicing sushi and sashimi. It is said that a Japanese knife is the sharpest kitchen knife in the world. In Japan, there are many types of Western knives, such as gyuto (chef’s knife), sujihiki (slicing knife), and yo-deba (the Western version of a deba). Japanese knives usually have thinner blades, and the steel used by Japanese manufacturers is much harder than those used in Europe. However, what is most important from the user’s point of view is that they will stay sharp longer and will be easier to sharpen than their European counterparts. That’s why our offer includes Japanese kitchen knives. The products are carefully selected and some are only available in small batches until stocks last.
Kitchen Knife Ranking 2023
For most users, a Gyuto, or Chef’s Knife, is practically the only knife needed in the kitchen and an absolute minimum for any kitchen knife set. Chef’s knives are universal knives. They are versatile and suitable for cutting meat, slicing, and chopping vegetables. If a chef’s knife has a classic Japanese handle, we call it a Wa-Gyuto. The blade length is usually 18-24 cm, but the most popular and universal size is 21 cm. When preparing the ranking, we took into account several factors such as the steel the knives are made of, the finishing method, the length of edge retention, the ease of sharpening, and of course the appearance 🙂 Below you will find some recommendations for what we believe are the best chef’s knives, but if you still have doubts or questions, contact us – we will be happy to help you choose a kitchen knife.
1. Takahisa Damascus Gyuto 210 mm
Our absolute favorite and number 1 in this ranking is the Takahisa Damascus Gyuto 210 mm. It is a beautiful Japanese kitchen knife with a classic mahogany wood handle, which is very comfortable and practical to use. This knife is both beautiful and practical, the blade is made of 17-layer Damascus steel and the core is made of high-carbon VG-10 steel. Additionally, the blade is hammered and finished with the traditional “Tsuchime” technique. The hardness of this blade is 61+/-1 HRC. If you value functionality and aesthetics, this is the best choice for both professionals and home cooks.
2. Masashi Nashiji Black Kiritsuke 210mm SLD
This knife is entirely made by one master, Masashi-san. Masashi-san independently prepares the steel and laminates for the knives, applies the grinds, sharpens the knives, and attaches the handles.
The Kiritsuke knife, with its wide profile, is gaining increasing popularity in European kitchens. It is a combination of Gyuto and Nakiri knives, which combines the most valued features of both knives.
The forging of the Masashi SLD series knives is based on the SAN-MAI technique. The blade consists of three layers, and the hard core is made of SLD steel. The outer layers are made of soft stainless steel, which protects the core. Thanks to this technique, the knives are flexible and durable. During heat treatment, they achieve a high hardness of 60-62 HRC. To give the knives a unique Japanese look, the blade is finished in the Kurouchi style, using unprocessed, black steel. The octagonal “WA” handle made of light pakka wood ensures comfortable use for both right- and left-handed people.
3. Takahisa Damascus Octagon Wa-Gyuto 210mm
This time, our next bestseller is in our ranking, the Takahisa Damascus Gyuto 210 mm but in the version with an octagonal handle. The Gyuto version with a traditional Japanese handle is called Wa-Gyuto.
The Takahisa Damascus Octagon is a series of knives that combines not only beautiful craftsmanship but also functionality. The blades of these knives are made of 17-layer Damascus steel, and the core is made of the renowned high-carbon VG10 steel. The blades are beautifully finished with the “Tsuchime” technique, which gives them a unique and impressive look. Thanks to this technique, we get a blade with a hardness of 61+/-1 HRC, which, thanks to the very hard core, has excellent cutting properties.
The Takahisa Damascus Octagon knife series are not just kitchen tools but also true works of art. Their precision, durability, and aesthetic design make cooking even more enjoyable.
4. HADO Ginsan Urushi Kijiro Kiritsuke 210mm
This knife is a top-shelf item; it will be hard to find a better knife. One of the main advantages of the Hado Ginsan Kijiro knife collection is that they are handmade. Shogou Yamatsuka is responsible for forging the blades, while Tadataka Maruyama is responsible for finishing and sharpening the Hado knives. This knife has a core made of Ginsan (Silver#3) steel and is surrounded by protective stainless steel cladding. During hardening, the blade hardness reaches a level of 62-63 HRC. Thanks to this process and excellent heat treatment, these knives hold their sharpness for a long time. The characteristic octagonal handle made of cherry wood is very comfortable to use and has been coated with a Japanese lacquer called Kijiro, which gives it a beautiful and unique look.
5. Tsunehisa Morado Kiritsuke Knife 21 cm Aogami Super
The Japanese knife Tsunehisa Morado Kiritsuke 210mm is not only an excellent kitchen tool but also a true decoration for any kitchen. The professional Tsunehisa Morado knife collection is made using the highest quality Aogami Super steel. This unique steel is characterized not only by high quality but also by extraordinary durability, which translates into cutting aggressiveness and long-lasting edge retention. The knife core, surrounded by stainless steel cladding, is made of unique Aogami Super carbon steel. As a result of the hardening process, the blades achieve a high hardness level, reaching 63 +/- 1 HRC.
The oval handle of the knives in this series is made of rosewood – Morado, and the aesthetic finish is a ferrule made of pakka wood.
6. Masutani Kokuryu Chef’s Knife “Gyuto” 18 cm VG-10
The universal Masutani Kokuryu chef’s knife with a beautiful blue handle is perfect for both chopping and slicing larger pieces of meat. Masutani knives have probably the best quality-to-price ratio, with their quality being at a very high level.
Japanese Masutani knives are handmade by a talented blacksmith from the Fukui prefecture in Echizen. They are even comparable to much more expensive models. As for their core, it is made of high-carbon stainless steel VG-1, which is characterized by exceptional durability. The outer layers of Damascus steel, consisting of 31 layers, are distinguished by a beautiful hammered effect, achieved thanks to the finishing technique called Tsuchime. During the hardening process, the blades reach a hardness of 61-62 HRC and also maintain their sharpness for a long time. The handle in its original blue color is resistant to moisture and high temperatures, thanks to the use of durable pakka wood. The Masutani knife series perfectly meets the needs of home cooking amateurs and is an ideal choice for people who would like to start their adventure with Japanese kitchen accessories.
7. Akifusa Aogami Super Santoku 165 mm
Okay, this is not a typical chef’s knife, but the Santoku can successfully replace it. The blade profile of this Santoku from Akifusa makes chopping and slicing with this knife pure pleasure. The blade was forged from Aogami Super carbon steel, which is characterized by very good edge retention and ease of sharpening. For easier care, the blade core is clad in stainless cladding – this is a big plus. The blade hardness is 63+/-1 HRC 🙂 The classic and comfortable ebony wood handle makes it a true work of art.
Summary
Good and cheap kitchen knives? Is this combination possible? When choosing tools that will accompany you in the kitchen, it is worth being guided not only by the price but also by the quality. Knives are an inseparable element of every kitchen, and their quality directly affects the comfort of cooking. That’s why we have prepared a list of the most popular models.
We especially recommend a universal knife. It is an essential element of every kitchen knife set, ideal for many tasks, from chopping vegetables to filleting meat. The question often appears on various forums: which chef’s knife to choose? Many users recommend Fiskars knives, which are characterized by an excellent quality-to-price ratio. However, in our opinion, Japanese knives will be a better choice. Durable and precise, they are the ideal choice for professionals and amateurs.
If you are in the process of putting together your first kitchen knife set, it is worth checking out various rankings. A kitchen knife set ranking can help you decide which knives will be best for you. Huusk knives have also become very popular recently. The opinions about them are really positive, and their unique, Japanese design attracts many kitchen lovers.
Finally, it is worth mentioning the “sharpest knife in the world.” Although it sounds like a marketing gimmick, many professional chefs confirm that having a truly sharp knife can revolutionize your cooking. Remember, when choosing good cheap kitchen knives, it is worth investing in quality. A well-chosen set of knives is the foundation of every kitchen that can serve you for many years.
So, if you are wondering what kitchen knife to buy or which knives will be best for your kitchen, it will depend on what dishes you cook most often. Some people immediately decide on a complete set of knives, while others choose ceramic knives. However, before you decide on your good kitchen knife, think carefully and choose a knife that you will be able to use most often.
The best kitchen knives from Hamono.pl. We also recommend a knife set, a chef’s knife, a vegetable knife, a boning knife, a bread knife.
