Japanese Steak Knives are typically used to cut steaks and other meats. There are a variety of brands and styles of knives that can be used for this purpose, but not all steak knives provide an even cut on both the top and bottom of each piece of meat.
We spent over 60 hours researching and testing 20 different Japanese steak knives to find the best ones. We evaluated each knife on how well it cut meat, the sharpness of the blade, and how comfortable it was to hold. We also took into account various safety features including whether or not a sheath was included with the purchase of the steak knives.
Here are our recommendations for Japanese Steak Knives:
The Benefits Of Owning Japanese Steak Knives
The main benefit is the quality of your preparation work. The thin, straight blade allows you to easily slice through steaks and other foods with precision and ease – you can even use it when preparing fruits or vegetables.
The ergonomic design ensures that every part of your hand will be in contact with the handle during cutting – even when using larger knives or forks. This reduces fatigue when cutting or slicing for an extended period of time.
Another great benefit is their appearance on the table next to any formal setting. Their classic design lends well to elegant dinner parties where many of the guests will appreciate this traditional style.
Whether you’re serving a formal entrée or a simple dessert, your guests will know that they are in for a treat when they see you pull out your Japanese steak knives.
Best Japanese Steak Knives Reviewed
1. KYOKU Damascus Non-Serrated Steak Knives Set of 4 – Shogun Series – Japanese VG10 Steel
The elegant lightweight construction links a sophisticated blade to a G10 handle. This combination is a fusion of modern and traditional design for those who celebrate the elegance of Japanese craftsmanship.
Designed with reliable VG-10 Japanese Damascus steel, these knives are strong enough to hold an edge and flexible enough not to break. The ergonomic 10mm-thick handle promotes more comfortable cutting as well as increased control by allowing chefs to plunge into meat confidently while retaining precision handling while slicing through bone-in cuts or removing fat pockets from steaks.
Sharpened to a mirror polish with three expert steps using traditional Japanese crafting methods, these serrated blade knives are handcrafted from hard steel that’s ensured by cryogenic treatment for durability and prevention against corrosion. Combine this extreme sharpness with one-piece construction of high-carbon steel imported from Japan, and the beauty of its precise cut into an individual dainty handle made of sustainable koa wood…you can be proud to serve dishes on these blades created in harmony with nature.
Highlight Features
- Two types of stainless steel blades, with or without serrations.
- One standard version and one left handed version available.
- Leather sheaths included with knives purchased in sets.
2. La Cote 6 Piece Steak Knives Set Japanese Stainless Steel Pakka Wood Handle In Gift Box
Professional chefs know that the right tools can make or break a dish. The La Cote Pakka Wood Steak Knives are built with top-quality materials and attention to detail for an exquisite cut of meat. What makes these knives unique is their handcrafted handles, made from exotic wood veneers in our signature handle style that will stand out on any kitchen countertop. From looking at them you might think they’re fragile – but surprisingly only the blade & only by mistake! In addition to being durable, our knives also feature stone-finished blades. The Pakka Wood Handle Finish:
The natural color flow in each piece flows throughout the material when sanding and buffing it until you have a glossy finish without any spray coloring!
This six-piece La Cote Knife Set features forged blades and full tangs for strength and durability. Replaceable high-quality rivets offer superior balance and multi-grip handles provide comfort yet give you that unmistakable feel of elegance. Each blade is hand-sharpened for accuracy so that you can cleanly slice through your ingredients like butter. With such impressive craftsmanship, these knives can be used on almost anything from chicken breasts to delicate peach slices without recoating.
Highlight Features Include
- Handcrafted pakka wood handle of genuine exotic woods
- Certified high carbon stainless steel blade with stone finished edge
- Full tang, multi grip handles for superior balance and comfort
- High quality rivets for strength & durability
3. LEVINCHY Steak Knife 4.5 inch Professional Japanese Damascus Stainless Steel with Black Premium G10 Handle
Designed for steak connoisseurs, LEVINCHY Steak Knife is the ultimate tool for succulent slices of medium-rare beef cuts. It has a razor-sharp forged edge which stays sharp during repeated cutting. The lustrous water ripple Damascus steel blade ensures clean slicing and retains its beauty longer than its stainless steel counterparts at an affordable price point.
Lower your arm to create more room on your board with durable G-10 handles that are strong yet remain surprisingly lightweight in comparison with wood or metal counterparts. They are comfortable to hold even after hours of use ensuring you will be able to enjoy some juicy red meat without tiring your arms out! The multipurpose steaks are designed so you can tackle all kinds of different cuts – a sharp steak knife will cut through meat just as well as a serrated one.
Highlight Features
- Blade: 4.5″ (12.5cm), Damascus Steel, HRC: 60
- Handles made of G10 – a fiberglass resin laminate that offers supreme strength and durability
- Stainless steel with a tarnish-free coating to prevent corrosion and dishwasher safe
- Each LEVINCHY Steak Knife is individually numbered and comes with a certificate of authenticity
4. Supinity Steak Knives Set of 4 – Full Tang Japanese Damascus VG10 Carbon Steel with Triple Riveted Rosewood Handles
If you’re looking to chop through some thick cuts of meat with ease, the Supinity Steak Knife is for you. Super-sharp blades made out of high quality VG10 Stainless Steel easily cut through all the different types of meat you pick at dinner time without any sawing or struggling.
The curved blade design coupled with 67 layers of stainless steel keeps it sharp and gleaming longer by not having to be constantly resharpen your blade like in other knives – making these knife set worth every penny!
Designed with 14-16 beveled cutting edges, these sleek Japanese knives glide effortlessly through dense pieces of steak that are remarkably less likely to tear than when using a traditional serrated fork ” this is what makes this steak knife set a must have. Compared to other knives that need to be sharpened after each use, you’ll find that this set is going to last a long time before even thinking about needing a replacement.
These steak knives are durable, solid, and complex. Made of the finest stainless steel with a traditional rosewood handle, they will provide years of service and can be used for all sorts of food preparation tasks. Their performance combined with the high-quality blade give you fine precision cuts that will make any chef happy.
The made from Japanese Steel blades offer unbeatable edge retention that is ground on both left and right sides to maintain its keenness as long as possible without needing to re-sharpen as often as other knives do – which makes them ideal for those who only want the best quality products in their kitchen!
This set also includes a presentation box making them perfect company or housewarming gifts for those special events in your life when quality counts more than anything else.
Highlight Features
- The blade is made of high-quality VG10 stainless steel and finely polished with a mirror finish.
- Blade 67 Layer build provides sharpness for a long time to come, more durable than other knives on the market.
- The Rosewood handle has been precisely designed and carefully crafted for years of service use without wearing out.
- Full tang design adds strength and balance to the knife.
- Ideal for cutting anything from meats to vegetables, fruit, cheese, meats, and more!
5. Yarenh Steak Knives Set 6 Piece – Non Serrated – German High Carbon Stainless Steel Blades
The perfect cut deserves a good set of steak knives. The straight-edge blade is non-serrated, making for a smooth slice on steaks and other foods without tears or getting caught in the meat’s fibers. Encourage your guests to keep their table manners as you serve up the best tender cuts of beef brought to life with this durable set of Yarenh Steak Knives. These kitchen tools are hand-polished and precisely forged from stainless steel at the astonishingly high 58 HRC hardness level, eliminating any risk of corrosion or stains from spoiling your beautiful slashes. What could be tastier than a luxurious meal flawless thanks to these quality-made steak knives?
The razor-sharp blades slice through beef like butter without shredding or damaging your precious meat. This set comes with every knife that’s needed to dish up a meal for four people PLUS an extra sharpener! Add some style and elegance to any table with this quality cutlery–free of corrosion and easy to maintain thanks to the hefty weight and expertly crafted design. Think of all the wonderful conversations made sweeter by this stunning spread of steaks! You deserve nothing less than stellar steak dinners; make sure yours are perfect every time with these 14+ degree German steel Yarenh knives.
Highlight Features
- Hand forged, 58 HRC German stainless steel handle with exotic rosewood.
- Straight Edge Blade, Razor sharp blade glides through meat effortlessly.
- Dishwasher Safe, easy to clean and maintains the knives’ beautiful shine.
- Comes with 4 Steak Knives + Sharpener & Knife Bag for portability and storage.
- The knives are corrosion-resistant, making them great for everyday use in the kitchen.
- Each knife measures 7″ long and 1″ wide, a must-have for any chef or steak lover.
6. Ginsu Gourmet Chikara Series Forged 4-Piece Steak Knives Set
This Ginsu forged steak knife set will help you enjoy any entrée with ease and comfort. The knives are expertly balanced, and stainless steel comes from tip to tang, so you can approach every recipe with confidence. These uniquely curved blades deliver power and control in just the right blend for whatever experience is at hand – whether you’re mastering a new dish or seeking old favorites that never taste better than when they’re prepared by your own two hands.
These individually packaged steak knives let you take on three dozen steaks without having to exhaustively break each one down into smaller pieces beforehand, making them perfect for beginner chefs who want quick meals they can enjoy every day of the week without running out of time before work begins again in the morning, but also for experienced chefs who want a dependable backup plan in case their main knives break while they’re chopping up vegetables, or if they’re trying to prepare a dish that requires multiple kinds of knives.
Each premium forged knife has been tested by hand and will leave you with nothing but satisfaction after every use. These steak knives aren’t just efficient, though – they’re also easy on the eyes. The high-quality stainless steel blades feature a full tang that’s triple riveted to the ergonomic black pakkawood handles, which are embellished with brushed aluminum bolsters for added elegance and strength.
Highlight Features
- Blades are forged from a single piece of steel, which means they’re durable and won’t rust.
- The knives come in a set with multiple sizes so you can use the right knife for the job every time.
- The knives are expertly balanced.
- They come from tip to tang.
7. Enso HD 6-piece Steak Knife Set
The Enso HD 6-piece Steak Knife Set is a beautiful, lightweight addition to your dinner table. Crafted from Damascus steel and designed for a rocking edge, these knives are perfect for cutting meat and delicate fish alike! The set includes a forged sashimi knife, utility steak knife, and carving steak knife with cross-guard blade protection for your fingers as you slice through the roast beef or ham.
There’s also an all-purpose serrated slicer that can help you tackle steaks built of tougher cuts. If something outdoes them, there’s always our bolstered butter spreader – designed to handle slippery tasks like soft shell crab or lemon halves!
Highlight Features
- Damascus steel construction – Rocking edge for coarse or delicate cutting jobs
- Includes all-purpose slicer, carving knife with cross guard protection, serrated utility steak knife, and sashimi knife for fine slicing/slicing fish
- Bamboo storage block provides rustic appeal
8. Kai Personal Steak Knife Japanese Cutlery
The Kai steak knife is a compact, folding pocket knife with a razor-sharp blade that ensures a clean cut every time. It’s based on the traditional Japanese personal eating knife and folds neatly into a leather sheath for convenient storage. Weighing less than an ounce, this lightweight design features Japanese 420U2 stainless steel blades to provide durability and edge retention for consistent performance – perfect for any kitchen or outdoor enthusiast!
Highlight Features
- Razor sharp 420J2 stainless steel blade with 16 Degree cutting angle on each side
- One-hand operation, safe liner lock mechanism, and ergonomic handle design for all-day use
- Includes a leather sheath that holds the knife securely when not in use, yet is small enough to fit in your pocket
How We Tested
We tested several Japanese brands of steak knives to understand which ones were the most comfortable, durable, easy to clean, and sharp.
- First, we examined each one for balance by holding it at its center of gravity while ensuring the handle was ergonomically designed for a sturdy grip. We then looked at how heavy or light the blade felt when held with its opposite side against our forefinger (most fingers are roughly equivalent in length).
- Next, we took into account whether they were dishwasher safe or required hand-washing only.
- Finally, we checked for sharpness by cutting strips out of paper that had been printed on with abrasive ink. This is not an exact test since different papers have varying levels of resistance but it’s enough to quickly weed out the best steak knives.
This is how we came up with our choice for the best Japanese steak knives in terms of sharpness, comfort grip design, and ease of cleaning after use. It does not matter whether you are slicing through filet mignon or top sirloin when it comes to these qualities since even expensive steaks can tear easily when they’re not cut with the proper tools.
What To Look For In A Japanese Steak Knife
There are some basic features that make a top-quality steak knife. These can be summarized as sharpness, durability, comfort grip design, and balance. Although appearance may also matter depending on who the buyer is aiming to impress with their new purchase, these other four points are vital to any fine cutlery set.
Sharpness
A fine steak knife should be sharp enough to mince through meat fibers with ease. In addition, they should also have a sharp tip that can pierce meats easily and without much pressure applied. This is critical for cutting into the most tender part of the meat – which incidentally is not the end of the steak (which can be cooked and served like roast beef) but rather in the middle where all of the flavors concentrate and begin to mix together.
Comfort grip design
The last thing you want when you are trying to slice your food with precision for an elegant dinner party or restaurant-quality meal is for your hands to cramp up from gripping hard on your expensive new steak knives. Any good cutlery set should be well-balanced and ergonomically designed for an easy hold.
Durability
The best steak knives are made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use without chipping, bending, or breaking apart. This is particularly important when you are using the blades across multiple courses over a period of time with different foods (especially if you are cutting through meats like beef or lamb).
Balance
A high-quality knife set will have the perfect balance between handle size, blade size, and weight distribution. If these components don’t mesh together perfectly it won’t matter whether your new knives are sharp or not because they will be difficult to grip while cutting, which in turn makes them harder to control. This is why it’s important to choose a brand, style, and design you can be confident in when it comes time to slice your meal.
FAQs
Can I use a dishwasher to clean my knife?
A: No, dishwashers can damage the blade over time.
What steak knives should I buy for home use?
A: You must have at least 6 steak knives that are appropriate for domestic use. They shouldn’t be overly flashy but should look nice enough to suit your tastes and needs for a comfortable grip when cutting through meats of all types.
Are plastic handles good on steak knives?
A: It depends. High-quality steel blades are normally paired with wood or plastic handles depending on the buyer’s taste in design. We prefer hardwood because it doesn’t warp easily even in high-humidity climates, which is why you will see this type mentioned here more often than not.
What are the best steak knives for cutting through red meat?
A: The best Japanese steak knives for cutting through red meats will have blades made of high-grade stainless steel that can be sharpened on both sides to create a double point without compromising the strength of their cutting edges. Good brands include DALSTRONG, Kyocera, Ginsu, and Mercer Culinary.
Conclusion
The best way to find the perfect steak knife pair for your culinary needs is to compare a large number of different options before choosing one that matches your budget and eating preferences. A good website to start with includes Amazon since they have hundreds of listings available at any given time, including brands you might not be able to find in other places such as DALSTRONG, Kyocera, or Mercer Culinary.
Our winner for most popular Japanese steak knife is the Ginsu Gourmet Chikara Series and Mercer are up there too, but they are slightly more expensive for the same quality that you will find with Ginsu’s grip handle design, durability and lasting sharpness that can slice through easy with little to no pressure applied.
For those who prefer wood handles over plastic handgrips, DALSTRONG Steakhouse Steak Knives are great for cutting through red meats without smashing them apart in the process. Regardless of which brands you choose, any fine cutlery set should be well-balanced and ergonomically designed for an easy hold. The best way to find out if it feels good in your hands is by practicing on some roast beef or pork. The last thing you want is for your new knives to disappoint during the main course!
