Chefs don’t dice about when it comes to their knives. And neither should you if you’re serious about your kitchen kit. A good chef’s knife is the most essential tool in any kitchen so having the right one at hand can help cut prep time, and even that gnarly kohlrabi bulb, in half.
It can be hard to cut through all the information around finding a cook’s knife that has that professional edge, so here’s our buying guide on the brands with the best blades.
Why choose Japanese kitchen knives?
We could go deep into the components of the steel used in blades that make a knife sharp, durable and low maintenance. But the long and short of it is that Japanese high-carbon stainless steel has become synonymous with high quality.
According to chef Jeffrey Simonetta of Australian Flavours, “Japanese knife makers have perfected the art of balancing hardness with flexibility through various heat-treating and tempering processes to create VG10 stainless steel.
“VG10 steel offers the best of both worlds: the sharpness and edge retention typically found in carbon steels, combined with the corrosion resistance and low maintenance of stainless steel for chefs and home cooks alike.”
The most versatile tool in your kitchen
If you’re only going to invest in one Japanese knife, make it a Gyuto — the Japanese version of a chef’s knife. Its curved blade, usually 210mm to 240mm long, is ideal for slicing, dicing, chopping, and even carving. The balance and precision of the blade make it indispensable for both pros and passionate home cooks.
Not far behind is the Santoku, another all-purpose knife with a shorter, flatter blade. Designed for slicing, dicing, and mincing (its name literally translates to ‘three virtues’), it’s particularly suited to those who prefer a lighter knife or have smaller hands.
The best all-round chef’s knife brands
We’ve come to the pointy end of the article. Here are three Japanese kitchen knife brands that will give you a cutting-edge advantage while cooking.
1. Global
Global knives are a mainstay in professional and home kitchens alike, known for their sleek one-piece stainless steel design and razor-sharp edges. Lightweight and hygienic thanks to their seamless construction, these knives are precision-balanced and easy to handle. The brand’s signature dimpled handles are both ergonomic and instantly recognisable — a modern classic in the kitchen.
2. Kasumi
Handcrafted in Seki, the traditional sword-making capital of Japan, Kasumi knives combine centuries of craftsmanship with modern technology. Their VG10 core is clad with multiple layers of stainless steel, creating beautiful Damascus-style patterns. Kasumi’s attention to detail results in blades that are not only visually striking but exceptionally sharp and durable — a choice for those who value both form and function.
3. Mac
Beloved by professional chefs around the world, Mac knives are prized for their ultra-thin blades and impressively sharp edges. Made with high-carbon chrome Molybdenum steel, they offer excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening. Mac’s knives are a go-to for precision cutting — perfect for tasks where clean, exact slices matter most, such as for prepping fish or delicate vegetables.
The final slice
Whether you’re dicing onions or slicing sashimi, the right Japanese knife makes every cut count. Investing in high-quality blades from trusted brands such as Global, Kasumi, and Mac not only elevates your kitchen game but brings a little precision, elegance and joy to every meal.
Care tips for your Japanese knives
- Hand wash only: Always wash knives carefully by hand with mild detergent and dry immediately — never put them in the dishwasher.
- Use a wooden or soft plastic cutting board: Hard surfaces such as glass or stone will dull your blades quickly.
- Store properly: Use a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guard to protect the edge and prevent accidents.
- Sharpen regularly: Hone your knife with a ceramic rod or get it professionally sharpened to maintain its razor-sharp edge.
- Avoid bones and frozen foods: Japanese knives are designed for precision, not brute force — use the right tool for tougher tasks.
From its modest inception, GLOBAL has developed into one of the most successful brands of professional kitchen knives in the world. Hand-crafted in Niigata, Japan, GLOBAL knives are manufactured to extremely high and exacting standard and have attracted much acclaim over the years, receiving numerous awards.
