Nakiri knives are a type of Japanese kitchen knife that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These knives are designed for chopping vegetables and are characterized by their rectangular blade shape, which allows for a straight up-and-down cutting motion. The name “nakiri” literally translates to “vegetable cutter,” and these knives are commonly used in Japanese cuisine for preparing ingredients like daikon, cucumbers, and eggplant.
One of the key features to look for when purchasing a nakiri knife is the type of steel used in the blade. High-quality Japanese steel is known for its sharpness and durability, and many nakiri knives are made from this type of steel. Additionally, the handle of the knife should be comfortable and easy to grip, as chopping vegetables can be a repetitive task.
At the same time, it’s important to consider the length and weight of the knife. A longer blade may be more versatile, but it can also be more difficult to control when chopping smaller vegetables. Similarly, a heavier knife may provide more power, but it can also lead to fatigue over extended periods of use.
We spent hours researching and testing various nakiri knives to identify the ones that offer the best balance of quality, performance, and value. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, a high-quality nakiri knife can make a big difference in the efficiency and enjoyment of your vegetable prep work.
Best Nakiri Knives
We have tested and reviewed several nakiri knives to bring you the best options available on Amazon. Nakiri knives are Japanese-style knives that are designed for chopping vegetables with precision and ease. These knives have a straight blade and a squared-off tip, which makes them perfect for slicing through vegetables with a single downward motion. In this roundup, we have selected the top nakiri knives based on their blade quality, handle comfort, and overall performance. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, these nakiri knives will help you achieve the perfect cut every time.
PAUDIN Nakiri Knife
If you’re looking for an all-purpose kitchen knife that can handle heavy-duty preps, the PAUDIN Nakiri Knife is a great choice. With its ultra-sharp edge and ergonomic handle, this knife is easy to use and maintain.
Pros
- The 7-inch blade is flexible and perfect for slicing, dicing, chopping, and mincing.
- The razor-sharp cutting edge allows you to cut foods effortlessly.
- The ergonomic handle is comfortable to hold and easy to control.
Cons
- The knife is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to hand wash it.
- The thin blade may be prone to chipping if not handled with care.
- The knife is not as heavy as some other nakiri knives, which may take some getting used to.
We recently tested the PAUDIN Nakiri Knife in our kitchen and were impressed with its performance. The blade is made of 5Cr15Mov stainless steel with a 56+ hardness, which is the same steel used by many top cutlery brands. The blade is not real Damascus, but it has a beautiful waved pattern that decreases food friction and makes the knife easy to clean.
The handle is made of soft pakkawood and is integrated with the blade, creating a comfortable grip. The handle’s shape balances perfectly with the thin blade at the pinch point, ensuring ease of movement. We found the knife to be well-balanced and easy to control, even when making delicate cuts.
Overall, we highly recommend the PAUDIN Nakiri Knife for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality kitchen knife. It’s a great value for the price and comes with a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
KnifeSaga Nakiri Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable nakiri knife, the KnifeSaga Nakiri Knife might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The razor-sharp 10° edge effortlessly cuts through all kinds of vegetables.
- The balanced blade combines hardness and toughness, maintaining its sharpness even after extended use.
- The ergonomically crafted handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, enhancing stability and ensuring safe and fatigue-free usage.
Cons
- The knife is not dishwasher safe, which can be inconvenient for some users.
- The Granton design with precision-engineered scallops on both sides of the blade might not be suitable for all cutting tasks.
- The knife might be too heavy for some users.
We’ve been using the KnifeSaga Nakiri Knife for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The knife’s Mystic Forged Steel and optimized carbon content make it incredibly sharp, and it cuts through vegetables with ease. The Granton design with precision-engineered scallops on both sides of the blade also reduces food sticking, allowing for effortless and efficient cutting.
The knife’s long-lasting performance is also noteworthy. Despite extended use, the balanced blade maintains its exceptional sharpness, eliminating the need for frequent sharpening. The addition of a half-bolster and the use of natural wood in the handle enhance stability, ensuring safe and fatigue-free usage during your culinary adventures.
However, the knife is not dishwasher safe, which can be inconvenient for some users. The Granton design might also not be suitable for all cutting tasks, and the knife might be too heavy for some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the KnifeSaga Nakiri Knife for anyone looking for a reliable and durable nakiri knife. With its razor-sharp edge, long-lasting performance, and enhanced comfort and safety features, this knife is a great investment for any home cook or professional chef. Plus, with a hassle-free return policy and a lifetime warranty, you can rest assured that you’re making a wise purchase.
TUO Nakiri Knife – Vegetable Cleaver Kitchen Knives – Japanese Chef Knife German X50CrMoV15 Stainless Steel – Pakkawood Handle – 6.5″ – Fiery Series Fiery Nakiri 6.5″
We highly recommend the TUO Nakiri Knife for anyone who needs a versatile and durable knife for their kitchen needs.
Pros
- The German high-carbon stainless steel blade promises durability and easy resharpening.
- The full tang handle made from high-density Pakkawood composite is stable, sanitary, and assures food safety.
- The ergonomic full tang handle design ensures exceptional comfort and durability.
Cons
- The handle design may not be suitable for those with larger hands.
- The blade may require frequent sharpening for optimal performance.
- The blade may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
The TUO Nakiri Knife is perfect for busy kitchens and is designed to handle a variety of tasks such as shredding carrots, cutting tomatoes, dicing onions, chopping melons, or peeling avocados. The German high-carbon stainless steel blade is precisely processed with high-tech vacuum heat treatment to reach the hardness HRC56±2 for extraordinary performance and edge retention. The blade won’t rust over time in most circumstances and won’t chip easily.
The full tang handle is made from our patent-pending high-density Pakkawood composite, which is way more stable and sanitary than other wood handles. The handle is specifically designed to hold comfortably in your hand with great balance. The bolster of the handle is carefully polished for a perfect pinch grip.
From the striking grain of the polished Pakkawood (sourced from Africa) handle to the gentle curve of the blade, this is an ergonomic full tang handle design for exceptional comfort and durability. The handle is specifically designed to hold comfortably in your hand with great balance.
In conclusion, the TUO Nakiri Knife is a great investment for anyone who wants a versatile and durable knife for their kitchen needs. With the luxury case, it is also a wise choice as a gift.
Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5″
If you’re in the market for a high-quality vegetable knife, the Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5″ is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The straight blade makes it perfect for simple push cuts.
- The high-quality construction means it’s strong, corrosion-resistant, and stain-resistant.
- The comfortable handle is durable, beautiful, and doesn’t harbor bacteria.
Cons
- It’s on the expensive side.
- It’s not dishwasher safe.
- The blade may be a bit short for some users.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5″, and we were impressed with its performance. The straight blade made it easy to make precise cuts, and the high-quality construction meant that it was durable and held up well over time.
One thing we particularly appreciated about this knife was the comfortable handle. It was easy to grip and didn’t slip, even when our hands were wet or greasy. Plus, the fact that it doesn’t harbor bacteria is a definite plus.
Of course, there are a few downsides to this knife as well. It’s definitely on the expensive side, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, it’s not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to take care when cleaning it. Finally, the blade may be a bit short for some users, so make sure to consider your needs before making a purchase.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5″ to anyone in the market for a high-quality vegetable knife. While it may be a bit pricey, it’s definitely worth the investment if you’re serious about your cooking.
MOSFiATA 7” Nakiri Chef’s Knife with Finger Guard
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile nakiri knife, the MOSFiATA 7” Nakiri Chef’s Knife with Finger Guard is a great choice.
Pros
- The high-quality German stainless steel ensures resistance to rust, corrosion, and discoloration, making it durable and long-lasting.
- The sharp edge and 14~16° sharpening angle make it easy to chop, slice, dice, and mince all kinds of meat, vegetables, fruits, and bread.
- The sturdy and comfortable handle provides a safe and comfortable grip, even after prolonged use.
Cons
- It may be heavier than other nakiri knives, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods.
- The blade may require frequent sharpening, especially if it is used regularly.
- The finger guard may be awkward to use and may get in the way during use.
We were impressed with the overall quality and performance of this nakiri knife. The sharpness of the blade made it easy to slice through even the toughest of vegetables, while the comfortable handle ensured that we could use it for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort or fatigue.
One thing to note is that the knife may be a bit heavier than other nakiri knives, which can make it difficult to use for extended periods. Additionally, the blade may require frequent sharpening, especially if it is used regularly. Finally, the finger guard may be awkward to use and may get in the way during use.
Overall, we would recommend the MOSFiATA 7” Nakiri Chef’s Knife with Finger Guard to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile nakiri knife that can handle a variety of kitchen tasks.
Buying Guide
When looking to buy a nakiri knife, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. We recommend considering the following features:
Blade Material
The blade material is a crucial factor to consider as it determines the durability, sharpness, and overall performance of the knife. The most common materials used for nakiri knives are high-carbon stainless steel, VG-10 steel, and Damascus steel. High-carbon stainless steel is durable and easy to sharpen, while VG-10 steel is known for its sharpness and resistance to corrosion. Damascus steel is a combination of different types of steel, resulting in a unique pattern and excellent performance.
Blade Thickness
The thickness of the blade can affect the knife’s overall weight, balance, and cutting ability. A thicker blade is more robust and can handle tougher vegetables, while a thinner blade is lighter and more maneuverable, making it ideal for precision cutting.
Blade Length
The blade length is another crucial factor to consider as it affects the knife’s versatility and cutting ability. A longer blade is ideal for cutting larger vegetables, while a shorter blade is better for smaller vegetables and precision cutting.
Handle Material
The handle material is essential for comfort and grip. Common materials used for nakiri knife handles include wood, plastic, and composite materials. Wood handles are comfortable and provide a good grip, but they require more maintenance. Plastic and composite handles are durable and low-maintenance but may not provide the same level of comfort as wood handles.
Price
Nakiri knives can vary in price depending on the quality of the materials used and the brand. It’s important to set a budget and choose a knife that fits within your price range while still meeting your requirements.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best nakiri knife for your needs and ensure that you are getting a product that will provide excellent performance and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the distinguishing features of a Nakiri knife?
Nakiri knives are Japanese-style knives that are specially designed for chopping vegetables. They have a straight blade edge that is squared off at the tip, which allows for a clean and precise cut. The blade is typically thin and lightweight, which makes it easy to handle and control. The handle of a Nakiri knife is usually made of wood, which provides a comfortable and secure grip.
How does a Nakiri knife differ from a Santoku knife?
While both Nakiri and Santoku knives are Japanese-style knives, they are designed for different purposes. Nakiri knives are specifically designed for chopping vegetables, while Santoku knives are more versatile and can be used for a wider range of tasks, including chopping, slicing, and dicing. Additionally, the blade of a Nakiri knife is typically thinner and flatter than the blade of a Santoku knife.
What are the best materials for Nakiri knives?
The best materials for Nakiri knives are high-carbon stainless steel and Damascus steel. High-carbon stainless steel is durable and resistant to corrosion, while Damascus steel is known for its unique and attractive pattern. The handle of a Nakiri knife can be made of various materials, including wood, plastic, and composite materials.
What techniques should be used when cutting with a Nakiri knife?
When using a Nakiri knife, it’s important to use a proper cutting technique to ensure the best results. Hold the knife with your dominant hand and use your other hand to hold the vegetable steady on the cutting board. Use a rocking motion to chop the vegetable, keeping the tip of the blade in contact with the board at all times.
Can Nakiri knives be used for chopping bones or only vegetables?
Nakiri knives are specifically designed for chopping vegetables and should not be used for cutting through bones or other hard materials. Using a Nakiri knife for this purpose can damage the blade and potentially cause injury.
How do I maintain and sharpen a Nakiri knife for optimal performance?
To maintain a Nakiri knife, it’s important to keep it clean and dry after each use. Avoid using abrasive materials to clean the blade, as this can damage the edge. To sharpen the blade, use a sharpening stone or honing rod to maintain a sharp edge. It’s recommended to have the blade professionally sharpened once a year to ensure optimal performance.