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 Global 8" Chef's Knife is a popular choice for both home cooks and professionals who want a reliable and sharp kitchen tool. Its 8-inch blade made from a high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel offers excellent sharpness that lasts longer than many other knives. The blade has a plain edge, which is versatile for most chopping and slicing tasks. Weighing only about 7.8 ounces, this knife feels lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to handle for extended cooking sessions.

The stainless steel handle is unique because it’s molded and dimpled to help provide a secure grip, though some might find it less cozy compared to wooden or softer handles. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is necessary to maintain its quality. The knife’s stamped construction means it’s made from a single sheet of steel, which usually makes it lighter but sometimes less robust than forged knives.

With a lifetime warranty against defects and breakage, this knife is a solid long-term investment for those who want a sharp, durable, and easy-to-maintain chef’s knife with a modern look.

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.