10 Best Japanese Knives 2025 in the United States

The Matsato Chef Knife stands out as a versatile and well-crafted tool suitable for both home cooks and professional chefs. Its blade is made of high-quality stainless steel, which promises durability and sharpness, reducing the likelihood of dulling or chipping over time. The blade length of 6.2 inches makes it a practical choice for various kitchen tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats.

The solid oak handle adds to its appeal by offering a firm and comfortable grip, contributing to the knife's balance and control during use. This makes it easier and safer to handle, whether you're in a kitchen at home or outdoors at a BBQ or camping trip. However, it’s important to note that the knife is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is required to maintain its quality and longevity.

The knife’s weight, at just 6.2 ounces, ensures it is light enough for easy handling, yet substantial enough to provide good balance. Its traditional Japanese craftsmanship combined with modern techniques ensures a high level of performance. The Matsato Chef Knife is highly rated by users, holding a 4.4 out of 5 stars from nearly 1,900 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception. This knife is a reliable, multi-purpose kitchen tool that combines traditional design with modern needs, although it requires careful maintenance due to its non-dishwasher-safe nature.

The MAC Knife Professional series 8" Chef's knife MTH-80 is a well-regarded kitchen tool known for its high-quality construction and performance. The blade is made of alloy steel, which provides durability and sharpness, and the dimples on the blade help it glide through sticky foods like potatoes and apples. The 2.5mm blade is relatively thin, making it ideal for precise cuts, and the 8-inch blade length is a versatile size for various kitchen tasks.

The handle is made from Pakka wood, offering a comfortable grip and adding to the knife's aesthetic appeal. At 10 ounces, the knife is lightweight, which can be beneficial for extended use, as it reduces hand fatigue. However, the lightweight nature might make it feel less substantial for those who prefer heftier knives. The knife's edge angle is not specified, but it maintains sharpness well.

One downside is that it is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing to maintain its quality. Additionally, while the knife is of Japanese origin and quality craftsmanship, it ranks #25 in Chef's Knives on Amazon, indicating strong but not top-tier market popularity. The MAC Knife MTH-80 is suitable for both professional chefs and home cooks looking for a reliable, sharp, and lightweight knife for everyday use.

The Shun Premier 8 Piece Professional Block Set is a comprehensive collection that includes essential kitchen knives such as an 8-inch Chef’s Knife and a 4-inch Paring Knife, along with a Honing Steel and an 11-Slot Bamboo Knife Block. The blades are made from high-quality VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus cladding, offering superior sharpness with a 16-degree edge. This ensures precise cuts and long-lasting performance. The knives feature a distinctive hammered tsuchime finish to prevent food from sticking, enhancing the user experience.

The handles are made from contoured Pakkawood, providing a comfortable and secure grip for both left and right-handed users. Each knife is meticulously handcrafted in Japan, showcasing traditional knife-making expertise and superior quality. The set also includes free sharpening and honing services, adding to its value. However, the set's weight of 11.85 pounds may be considered heavy for some users, and it requires hand washing, which might be inconvenient for those who prefer dishwasher-safe options. This set is ideal for cooking enthusiasts and professional chefs who appreciate high-quality Japanese craftsmanship and are looking for a durable, well-balanced knife set.