Kitchen with perfect chef knives is a definition of the well-organized kitchen. Because we always regarded chef knives is a multitasked since it designs to handle multiple kitchen jobs perfectly. In this manner, Japanese chef knives now are holding a top position in the worldwide. Therefore, when you layout for chef knives then you must want the best Japanese chef knives in the world. As much as the importance of the chef knife in food preparation cannot be ignored at all.
But purchasing the correct Japanese chef knife is a real challenge. Without proper information, choosing is not a wise decision. As it is the knives that will do your job easy in every kind of chopping, slicing whether it vegetable, fish or meat. No matter you are professional chefs or home cooker. Consequently, in order to assist you, we created a list of top Japanese chef knives to narrow down you’re troublesome, let’s have a look.
Top 5 best Japanese chef knife
After a month of research, we succeed to create a listed of some best chef knives. We get that no single kitchen knives define a cook more than a chef knife. After all, a chef knife is indeed a versatile tool. We not only figure out those knives, in fact, add all essential details to make an informed purchase. Scroll down for every knife details.
1. ZELITE INFINITY Chef Knife 8 inch – Alpha-Royal Series
Zelite infinity is a name of royal knives that are alone enough to handle your kitchen. When you think about chef knives then without Zelite the list might be incomplete. A good knife is effortful to find and the particular one truly fulfill all criteria of the best knife. Before elaborate let’s have a look at the key feature.
Key feature at a glance
- Having 8 inches stainless blade
- 15-degree angle real Japanese blade
- Full tang provides extra strength
- Ergonomically designed rounded handle
- The company provide 100% satisfactory word
Design and size
A first noticeable feature of the knives is its gorgeous design that wonderful to behold. The mirror polis 8 inches length knife make a great impression upon your guest and make a nice deal of money. Come in a premium package that again makes a sign of royal substance. Overall product dimension is 12.9×0.9×1.8 inches that are remark a size of real chef knives.
Blade material and function
The blade is perhaps the most important part of any knife which generated a knife weather best or worst. In case of the Zelite blade, it made of high-quality carbon stainless steels with authentic Japanese rivets. Carbon steel capable the blade for cutting any object faster whiles the stainless feature work as astain and rust resistance. Again the 12-degree razor sharp blade edge takes less effort for cutting and chopping faster. Length, edge, sharpness, tangs everything of the blade build the knife undoubtedly a perfect chef knife.
Handle and weight
Design of handle and total weight of any knife is another important fact that matter in a chef knife. At this point, the knives recurrently fulfill that demand. The handle is made from G-10 military grade steel with triple rived that maintain balance and ensure great performance. Plus the round shape and ergonomic design provide comfort. On the verge of weight, it is having only 8 ounce which is very easy to conduct.
Pros
- Incredible sharpness
- Long-lasting durability
- Satin and rust resistance
- Premium Japanese steel knives
- Elegant design
Cons
- The end blade shape need extra attention
- Letter design on the blade may disappear over time
2. DALSTRONG Chef’s Knife – Shogun Series X Gyuto – Japanese AUS-10V
We take another outstanding chef knives namely DALSTRONG to present before you. The knife has award-winning craftsmanship that design to do versatile work. It assists you in any kind of chopping, cutting, slicing or dicing no matter you are a professional chef or a home cooker. The knife will never deceive you; take this to your account.
Key feature at a glance
- Attractive hand polish spine
- Full tang blade for super toughness
- Heat, cold and moisture resistance grip handle
- Using Rust and bacteria protective material
- 8 inches forged blade with an ultra-premium Japanese AUS 10V cutting core technology
Design and size
Dalstrong Shogun Series X chef knife is a combination of style and elegant appearance. The lion head logo on the knives with hand polish mirror visual pattern make you fall in love with the design. Bring a nice black cover to secure from danger. The full-size dimension of the knife is 16.9×4.3×1.6 inches.
Blade material and function
Looking forward to the blade material it is made from 66-layers of high carbon steel that are premium Japanese material. Its strength the blade with exceptional sharpness and like all Japanese chef knives builds it super durable. Besides the manufacturer appliance, 8-12 degree edge angles each side of the blade that allows a user to cut the object in any desired size. Further, the included materials are rust and stain resistance.
Handle and weigh
The handle is constructed in ultra-premium military G-10 grade that is verification with vacuum and heat defense. Similarly, the ergonomic handle shape maintains control, agility and provides comfort. In addition, the stainless steel cap at the end of the handle adds extra balance. Steeped with the weigh it bears only 9.6 ounces. It is light enough that will not tire you ever after an hour of use.
Pros
- Crafted with superlative grade Japanese steel
- Doing versatile work
- Fiercely sharp with 8-12 degree blade
- Flexible and offer a perfect balance
- Non-slip grip handle
- Bring a fine cover
Cons
- The handle is bit large for some user
- Need little practice to get used to the long blade
3. Yoshihiro VG10 16 Layers Hammered Damascus Gyuto Japanese Chefs Knife 8.25
If you are not satisfied with Zelite or DALSTRONG then you can check the model we attempt to describe now. Because Yoshihiro is such a company that is famous for fashioning handcrafted premium Japanese kitchen knives. They are top rated knife manufacturer in terms of artistic appeal and performance.
Key feature at a glance
- 3 layer constructed blade with Japanese VG- 10 stainless steel technology
- Full tang provides super balance
- 16 layers hammered outer steel that defeat friction
- Comes with elegant mahogany wooden handle
- Excellent for an entry-level chef or home cook
Design and size
The Yoshihiro VG10 16 layers hammered chef knives is slightly large then 8 inches as mention in the title. Overall dimensions of the knives are 13.×0.1×1.8 inches. These bit large sizes furnish the knives in special look and style. Moreover, the manufacturer prides their Japanese chef knives with western look for unique presentation.
Blade material and function
At the point of blade functionality and material the particular model again takes your concern. The blade has been created in stainless steel with 16 layers hammered outer steel that prevent friction and does not stick in food. Also the V shape edge with HRC 60 sharpness capacity further frame the knife is most useful and stylish. Likewise, an edge is completely razor sharp and finished with hand polish which is another example of the best Japanese chef knives. However, behind everything, the curved blade generated it great for cutting, chopping and slicing like a rocking motion.
Handle and weigh
In case of a handle, it made from mahogany wood that not only gives its western look. But again it organized to be easy to hold in the user’s hand. Apart from that, the handle has a full tang that ensures proper balance and comfort. If weight is your concern then fell relaxed as the knife is very light weighed which comes under 7 ounces.
Pros
- Made in Japan
- Wooden handle provides comfort
- Blade made from Japanese VG-10 steel
- Japanese knives with western look
- Excellent sharpen edge
Cons
- Need to maintain the wooden handle
- Cant protection against moisture and heat
4. Shun DM0706 Classic 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
The model we are taking to present now known as shun DM0706 is another popular and multipurpose knife. It has ranked among many best chef knives in the world due to its amazing feature and function. If you have no time for research then immediately can go for this one. Since the sun classic is a gorgeous option for either professional chef, entry-level chef or a home cooker.
Key feature at a glance
- 8- inches slightly curved blade
- Pakkawood handle made of resin-impregnated hardwood
- NSF certified for use in commercial kitchens
- Hand-sharpened 16-degree double-bevel blade
- Made in Seki City Japan
Design and size
This simple but attractive and distinctive chef knife is beautifully design and handcrafted by artisan knife maker of Japan. Generally, the manufacturers are inspired by the ancient handcrafting technique of Japan and try to make it in that way. They fashion the knives in plain look with a mini pattern on the blade that covey superb outlook. The full size of the knives is 15x5x3 inches.
Blade material and function
Japanese chef knives are famous for its blade construction and the mentioned model is not different from that. For the blade, the company uses VG-10 stainless-steel clad with 32 layers of high carbon steel. Similarly, the 8 inches blade makes the knives enough smooth and swift cuts. On the other hand, the slightly curved blade pattern established it good for all kind of chopping slicing and dicing. Besides the Damascus steel make it rust resistant.
Handle and weigh
Handle is a part that created this knife distinctive from other on our list. It is constructed with unique D shape which sustains balance and serves comfort. Plus the handle is equable that means can be used by both right and left-handed person. Once more all the formation build the knives much lightweight which comes in under 8 ounces only.
Pros
- Full tang construction
- Beautiful D shape handle
- Having 16-degree cutting edge
- Curved belly blade allow versatile work
- Lightweight and well balanced
Cons
- The blade is thin and dedicated that might not work for heavy duty tasks
- Food grain get accumulated on the hammered surface
5. Mac Knife Professional Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife, 8-Inch
Although mac has not such familiarity like shun DM0706 and other knives on our list. But there is something uncommon in the knives which influence us to place it in the category of fine chef knives. Despite the fact, mac professional knives are ideal for both professional and home use.
Key feature at a glance
- 5- mm thickness blade
- 15 degree sharpens edge on each side of the blade
- The dimple or hollow pattern blade design
- Proudly made in Japan
- Fantastic Pakka wood handle
Design and size
When you remark the knives for the first time you may get confused by the design. As there is some dimple pattern on the blade that is named by the company a hollow edge. By the way it actually not hollows edge. But a unique design which created an air pocket in the knives that made it perfect for cutting any objects. The product dimension is 8x1x1 inches that is pretty good as a knife.
Blade material and function
As we mention before the model has something different and it is the blade design and function. The 8inches 2.5 mm blade is made from high carbon chrome molybdenum steel with simple form. While the material brings durability elsewhere the dimple build it perfect for cutting. And help not to stick to the food yet save your time while you struggling with continually having to wipe the blade clean. Behind everything, the blade has a capacity to do little work to heavy duty task with its double sharpened edge scheme.
Handle and weigh
On the terms of handle, it constructed with pakka wood. Therefore, the full tang handle creates an excellent counterweight to the blade that offers a stability and balance. Moreover, the wooden handle gives comfort and warmth. However, the knives having 1.5 pound of weight which is neither too light nor too heavy in use.
Pros
- Perfect for all type of cutting
- Dimple pattern help that food does not stick on the blade
- Comfortable handle
- Razor sharpener edge
Cons
- Bit expensive competitively other on our list
- You might face rust and discoloration
What actually a Japanese chef knife is?
Before choosing any of the chef knives you have to know what a Japanese chef knife is and why it is so famous. Well, Japanese are recognized for making unique food with distinctive size and appearance. Of course, for this, they need a kind of knives that help to get a perfect shape. Eventually, they are begun to make a knife that is not only a high performer but expert for every sort of work. Even if for cutting, dicing, garnishing, slicing, chopping in every piece of meat, fish, vegetable or fruit.
Japanese chef knives tend to be lighter, sharper, thinner, and little and most are stamped not forged. Therefore the steel is harder that given a sharpen edge for a long time. There is over 1000 year older of history and tradition illustrated in each blade construction and sword making technique. All the latest and ancient technology jointly makes Japanese chef knives famous all over the world.
How to choose a Best Japanese Chef Knives
Although we included most well-organized knives on our list but for your further convince we add the choosing factor. These are some crucial factors that one must be considered before intended to buy Japanese chef knives. Let’s have a look.
Blade construction
The blade is the vital part of any knives and the chief considerable fact when lay-out for shopping. There is mainly two type of blade construction available in Japanese chef knives. And they are stainless steel and carbon steel. Although carbon steel is much sharper than stainless steel and retail sharpen for a long time. But it has a tendency to rust and stain when used a long time in a moisture atmosphere.so need frequent security and maintenance.
On the other hand, stainless steel has a quality of rust and stain resistance. But like carbon steel could not sharpener for a long time. But need less maintenance and safety in use. So before buy Japanese chef knives must have to check out the blade construction that suited you the best.
Size
Size is another significant fact of considering. In present time 6 to 10 inches knives are available is market. Among them, the common size is regarded as 7 to 8 inches. In size choosing, the most important thing is, it should be comfortable in your hand and maintain balance. If you have regular size hand then easily can go for 8 inches knives. Likewise, if you have big hand then must go for big size like 9 to 10 inches.
Handle
Most of the traditional Japanese chef knives offer wooden handle. It gives the knives a classic look and at the same time provides comfort and good grip. Yet not slip from hand in wet condition but when united with moisture there it a change of bacteria attack. As a result, get a bad smell and could be broken before time. So need some preclusion if you choose the wooden handle.
Contrarily, the metal handle has no chance of bacterial attract and lasted pretty long time. Not every metal handle but few are also providing comfort and grip. But check out if they have made from heat resistant material or not. Anyway what kinds of handle you choose to depend on you! But at least try to select ergonomically model handle that helps to provide comfort even after hours of cutting or chopping.
Tang
Tang is part that makes a communication between handle and blade. Two type of tang is well known in case of Japanese knives they are full tang and push tang. The tang contributes a great part in maintaining balance. Full tang means the blade of knife runs the full length of the handle. Whereas the push tang takes only half part of the full length handle. As tang supply balance so try to take full tang knives. While in a push tang construction knives there is a possibility that the blade loses from the handle and create danger. But in full tang knives, there is no possibility of such kind of incident.
Weight
We find out after research that weighs of knives is matter in choosing a chef knife. No matter you are professional chefs or home cooker. If you are going use the knives for hours after hours then you must think about weight. Although the heavy weighted knives offer heavy-duty task. But may not comfortable for hours use and you get easily tried. So finding out the weight details before buy is a considerable fact.
Tips for Maintenance
After buying a chef knife if you follow our below-included tips then your knife will last high time. Continue reading for gaining the tips.
- 1st thing of maintenance a knife is sharpening its blade properly. In this manner, we suggested to use Japanese water stone or any electric knife sharper. In both cases be sure the knives you have a deal with allowing this kind of sharpening.
- Always hands wash your knives with soft cleaner and water and set them for dry out immediately.
- Avoid putting knives in the dishwasher as dishwasher impact upon the knives blades badly.
- Use blade protector cover or sheaths for your knives to protect the blade.
- Should not use your knives for opening cans or cutting the bones directly. It decreases the durability of knives.
- Try to use knives on wooden cutting broad.
Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Japanese chef knives
- Reader question: What size Japanese chef knife is best?
Answer: Chef Knives comes in a variety of size option and choosing the best size basically depended on your hand size. But the 8 inches sizes knives regarded the best size knives. The reason is it can be used by either professional chef or a non-professional chef without any trouble.
- Reader question: How frequently I have to sharpen my chef knives?
Answer: Well it depended how much and for what reason most of the time you used your knives. It will be appropriate if you sharpen your knives once a month.
- Reader question: Is chef knives only made for professional chef used?
Answer: Not at all, chef knives use for perfection it not matter you are a chef or not. You can still use it if you loved perfection in cutting, chopping, slicing or dicing.
- Reader question: What is the best way to store a knife?
Answer: You can store your new or used knife in a box provided by the knife manufacturer. Even you can use a wooden box that specially designs to store a knife.
- Reader question: How do I clean my old and new knife?
Answer: In both occasions, you can use a soft cleaner with warm water and clean it slowing using your hand and cloth. Be sure you immediately wipe the water and let it dry in natural air.
Final words
There is a lot of information matter to make a wise and fruitful purchase. We hope your searching for the best Japanese chef knives in the world has met its destination after reading our article. Although buying a knife is entirely depending on your own choice. But keep in mind here we included those Japanese chefs that already gain reputation in worldwide. We warp up with best wishes for you valuable chef knives shopping. And we be aware you to learn first, read all information carefully, determined your need then go for action.
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