The Best Sushi Knife For Perfect Sushi Slices

Best Sushi Knife

Having a hard time making thin sushi slices with your regular kitchen knife? Only a sushi and sashimi knife can handle the suitable precision, accuracy, and sharpness you need. 

However, there are tons of options to choose from, so it’s a bit hard to find the best sushi knife. Don’t you worry though! After extensive research and hands-on testing, we’ve identified the top Japanese sushi knives. 

We have also gathered a comparison chart so that you can go through all the knives without too much effort. Here are the sushi knives that we are talking about: 

Do you really need a sushi knife?

Sushi knives have long, thin blade that slices without pressuring the ingredients. If you want perfectly sliced sushi, then a sushi knife may be your only option. You will end up with excellent taste and chewiness. You won’t technically need it if you don’t want perfection every time.

What Is The Best Japanese Sushi Knife?

If you are a sushi enthusiast, it’s crucial to have a knife that can handle precision cuts over delicate ingredients. Here are some of the best sushi knives for the job: 

7 Top Sushi Knife: Comparison Chart

Sushi knives Best For Blade length Material Weight  Handle material Price
Keemake Sashimi Sushi Knife Slicing sushi, comfort, ease of use, traditional 10.5″ High Carbon Stainless Steel 0.7 Pounds Rose Wood Handle Check Price
Japanbargain 1560, Extra Long  11 inch long blade build and smoother cuts 11.75 inches High Carbon Stainless Steel 0.55 pounds (8.8 ounces) Mainly wooden and plastic Check Price
Dalstrong Yanagiba Sushi Knife – 9.5 Inch Multi-purpose use 9.5 inches (240mm) High-carbon Japanese AUS-8 steel 1.41 pounds mosaic pin of brass and copper Check Price
Dalstrong Black Titanium Nitride Coated 10.5 Inch Long-lasting use 10.5 Inch High-carbon 7CR17MOV-X  1.15 pounds G10 resin, tapered bolster Check Price
Sekizo A210, Japanese Long Sashimi Sushi Knife Cheap but reliable 8 Inches Molybdenum Rust Resistant Steel Blade 0.35 pounds Plastic, Steel Check Price
Liuzhangyu Waterboss Sushi Knife Both sushi and sashimi slicing 10.6 inches (270mm) 5Cr15mov Stainless Steel 0.70 pounds Maple Wood Check Price
Kyoku Samurai Series – 10.5″ Precision cuts, and comfortable grip 10.5 inches Ultra-sharp cobalt-added Japanese steel 0.45 lb (0.2 kg) Wood Handle Check Price

7 Best Sushi Knife 2023: A complete review

We made sure nothing gets in your way and perfect sushi slices. Here are the 7 best sushi knives for it: 

1. Best Overall: Keemake Sashimi Sushi Knife

Key Features

  • Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel
  • Blade Length and handle material: 10.5″ blade with Rose Wood Handle Japanese Sashimi Knife
  • Blade Edge: Plain
  • Construction Type: Forged
  • Weight: 0.7 Pounds
  • Is Dishwasher Safe: No
  • Number of Pieces: 1
  • Product Dimensions: 16.65 x 1.34 x 0.12 inches

$65.99

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Pros

  • Durable build quality
  • Comfortable to grip and use
  • Effective, yet non-sticky
  • Quick to take an edge
  • Razor sharp edge

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe

The Keemake Sashimi Sushi knife is by far the best sushi knife to our testing. It offers precise cutting efficiency and a durable edge, and is a balanced knife overall. The best part is you can use it as a left-handed sushi knife as well. 

Here are some features of the sushi knife: 

Unbeatable Strength: 58+ Rockwell Hardness

The knife has a Japanese High carbon VG-10 stainless steel build, plus a 58+ Rockwell hardness count. You can finally experience unbeatable performance, strength, and long-lasting durability. With High-Tech vacuum heat treatment, this sushi knife will last a lifetime.

Savor the Sharpness: 12-15 Degree Edge

The Sushi Knife literally makes you glide through the softest sashimi or most rigid meat without tearing or pulling. Having an edge to a razor-sharp 12-15 degrees angle, the knife ensures maximum sharpness and edge retention. Every slice you make with the high-carbon blade is just picture-perfect.

Luxurious handle grip (Smooth Rosewood Handle)

In this case, the seamless junction between the wooden handle and the knife blade strengthens the knife. Additionally, it provides a comfortable grip for effortless cutting and hardly puts stress on your hands.

Flavor Maximization: Single-Bevel Blade

Maximizing the flavor of every ingredient can’t get any easier. Due to the highly sharp single-bevel 3.1mm blade, the knife is well suited for cutting any sushi and sashimi. You can even do filtering and slice fish or meat, ensuring maximum flavor retention in every cut.

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2. Best with extra long blade: Japanbargain 1560, Sushi Sashimi Knife

Key Features

  • Blade Material: High carbon stainless steel
  • Blade Edge: Plain
  • Blade Length: 11.75 inches
  • Overall Length: 17.5 inches
  • Blade Color: Silver
  • Handle Material: Mainly wooden and plastic
  • Bolster Material: Plastic
  • Weight: 0.55 pounds (8.8 ounces)

$39.99

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Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Excellent addition to the quiver of a pro
  • Highly Rust-Resistant Blade
  • Comfortable. Yet, easy to control
  • Lasts for years

Cons

  • Too long for some

The Japanbargain 1560 is the second-best sushi knife on our list. This extra-long Japanese Yanagiba knife offers super thin slices, whether it be sushi or sashimi. Supposing that you need a rust-resistant 11-inch blade with an easy-to-sharpen edge, then the JapanBargain is the one. 

Here are some features of the knife:

Unlock Your Inner Sushi Master Every Time

Do you want to carve through the thinnest slices of fish and sushi with ease? Make your favorite sushi or sashimi dish with this high-quality Japanese knife, plus keep the flavors intact.

Smooth and precious cut (A Razor-Sharp Edge)

For the blade, the knife has a high-carbon stainless steel with ultra-sharp edges, ensuring precise cuts. It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert sushi chef or a beginner cook, this knife can bring out the perfectionist in you.

Handcrafted in Japan for Unmatched Excellence

Handcrafted in Japan using traditional techniques passed down through generations, you will find these traditional Japanese knives to be highly user-friendly. Weighing just 0.55 pounds (8.8 ounces), the knife will feel light and well-balanced. It can impress any chef looking to create delicious, authentic sushi and sashimi dishes. 

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3. Best for versatility: Dalstrong Yanagiba Sushi Knife – 9.5 Inch

Key Features

  • Blade material: High-carbon Japanese AUS-8 steel
  • Blade hardness: 58+ Rockwell
  • Blade edge: 13-15 degree angle, nitrogen cooled, hollow ground
  • Blade length: 9.5 inches (240mm)
  • Handle material: Black Spanish pakkawood
  • Tang: Full tang
  • Construction: Precision forged from a single piece of steel
  • Handle design: Traditional Japanese D-shaped handle and mosaic pin of brass and copper
  • Special offer: Lifetime warranty against defects

$109.00

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Pros

  • Comfortable use with uniform precision.
  • Removes seeds, skinning, and cuts small garnishes.
  • Ideal for peeling and other intricate work.
  • Can slice through vegetables effortlessly.
  • Prepares food quickly and efficiently.

Cons

  • The cutting edge needs regular sharpening. 

Trying to master your sushi-making skills? Then it’s time to get yourself a sushi knife, and not just any sushi knife, but a high-quality one like the Phantom Series by Dalstrong. Where most sushi knives fail, this one will take your ingredient slicing to a whole new level. 

Here are some features of the knife you will love: 

Master Sushi Making Art on the first try.

With this knife, you’ll master the art of sushi making in no time. The precision and control you’ll experience are just too good, thanks to a razor-sharp 13-15° edge and nitrogen cooling for enhanced hardness and flexibility. 

The best part is the blade’s careful tapering ensures minimal drag, making swift and precise cuts with effortless ease.

Proper Precision and Control Over the roles

The full tang and precision-forged Japanese AUS-8 steel at 58+ Rockwell hardness guarantees exceptional sharpness, edge retention, strength, and durability. The velvety rich black Spanish pakkawood handle, tucks perfectly into the palm of your hand for ultimate control, cut after cut.

Elevate Your Sushi Game Today

When it comes to making sushi, it doesn’t matter if you have been doing it for years or for a few days; precision is everything. The knife makes slicing sashimi, chopping vegetables for rolls, or simply cutting through the seaweed becomes much more efficient.

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4. Best for durability: Dalstrong Black Titanium Nitride Coated 10.5 Inch

Key Features

  • Blade: 16-18° edge angle, titanium-nitride coating
  • Handle: G10 resin, tapered bolster
  • Tang: Full tang
  • Steel: High-carbon 7CR17MOV-X 
  • Hardness: 58+ Rockwell hardness, precision tempered
  • Construction: Unique handle geometry
  • Design: Ergonomic design, hand-polished spine
  • Handle Material: High-carbon, Titanium

$77.00

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Pros

  • Provides comfort and control when cutting
  • Designed with ergonomic handles
  • Strong and resistant to corrosion
  • Its durability and versatility
  • Long-lasting edge retention

Cons

  • If you are in a hurry or just don’t notice, you may cut yourself.

Dalstrong is always first in line if you want a traditional Japanese sushi knife with blue steel. The Black Titanium Nitride Coated sushi knife is another top-notch option. Featuring a 7CR17MOV-X super steel blade, the knife is up to 58+ HRC durable, all while being super thin. 

Here are some features of the sushi knife: 

Slay with style: black titanium-coated blade.

Hooked up with a sleek and stylish black titanium coating, this 10.5-inch knife will charm almost anyone. You can cut through all types of sushi rolls, veggies, fish, and even meat with scalpel-like sharpness at a 16-18° degree angle per side. 

Plus, you can use it just as you would with left-handed knives.

Makes any type of sushi easily

Don’t just go for the looks, as this knife has invincible cutting performance and durability as well. Its high-quality 7CR17MOV-X steel blade and expert craftsmanship make the knife sail through any culinary challenges. Experience minimal slicing resistance and non-stick properties every time.

Invincible cutting performance and durability are guaranteed.

Why settle for dull knives when you can have a knife that performs as well as it looks? A sophisticated black and non-reflective titanium-nitride coating adds corrosion resistance to the blade. 

This toughens the blade for long-lasting usability. You will also love the full tang and boost the robustness & grip.

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5. Best value for money: Sekizo A210, Japanese Long Sashimi Sushi Knife

Key Features

  • Handle Material: Plastic, Steel
  • Blade Edge: Plain
  • Blade Length: 8 Inches
  • Blade Color: Silver
  • Is dishwasher Safe: Yes, but not for too long
  • Number of Pieces: 1
  • Item Length: 14 inches
  • Product Dimensions: 14 x 2 x 1 inches
  • Item Weight:  0.35 pounds

$21.99

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Pros

  • Cheap yet reliable
  • Great at cutting or slicing
  • Lightweight and easy to control 
  • Highly versatile 
  • Can even cut fishbones

Cons

  • Has a sharp back corner by the handle. So be careful

This may be the best and cheapest sushi knife yet. They say you shouldn’t go for cheap, but hey, if you have good quality for less, then why not go for it? The Sekizo A210 offers just that and makes up for a durable stainless steel design and is light. 

Here are some features you would like:

Slice with precision using the razor-sharp blade

This knife offers a razor-sharp blade that can cut through flesh, vegetables, and even fishbone. It holds a good edge for a long time when used correctly and sharpened as needed. 

Experience good balance and control.

Turns out, the balance and control of this knife are just too good. You can put your find in the middle, and the knife will balance out perfectly. The slender blade and lightweight design come for maximum control and maneuverability while keeping the cuts clean.

Beauty, durability, and minimal care needed

The raw wood handle adds a touch of beauty to this knife, while the polyurethane coating ensures durability and minimal maintenance. With a bit of care, this knife will last for years and become one of your favorite tools in the kitchen.

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6. Best for both sushi and sashimi: Liuzhangyu Waterboss Sushi Knife

Key Features

  • Blade Material: 5Cr15mov Stainless Steel
  • Blade Hardness: HRC 56-58
  • Blade Length: 10.6 inches (270mm)
  • Blade Edge: Symmetrically Ground Double Beveled
  • Handle Material: Handcrafted Maple Wood
  • Knife Type: Sashimi Knife
  • Use for: Slicing Raw Fish Thin, Sashimi, and Sushi Making
  • Care Instructions: Wipe off Oil Carefully; use Whetstone Sharpening

$70.00

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Pros

  • Requires minimal sharpening
  • Comfortable handle shape
  • Blade heavy for slicing
  • Hollow ground blade cuts easily
  • Comes with a traditional tanto tip

Cons

  • Not too sharp out of the box. Maybe it’s the safety feature.

The Liuzhangyu Waterboss premium segment sushi knife makes any slicing tasks seem effortless. Raw fish? Meat? Or just the sushi rolls; nothing’s too harsh for this 10.6-inch knife. Here are some features of the time worth mentioning: 

Perfectly slice sashimi like a pro

Thanks to its exceptional sharpness and optimal edge retention, this particular knife can make slicing fish as effortless as possible. It falls into the category of double-bevel knives, so it’s super sharp.

Create stunning sushi with ease.

Preparing the perfect sushi can’t get easier than this. First of all, this Japanese sushi knife is ideal for preparing sushi rolls, as its long, thin blade allows for precise cuts. And secondly, its handcrafted maple wood handle offers exceptional balance and comfort.

Elevate your culinary skills instantly.

Unlike other chefs’ knives, this chef’s knife is just excellent for anyone who wants versatility. Due to the symmetrically ground double-beveled edge, this knife slices through almost anything. You can finally preserve the taste of food from knife crush. 

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7. Best for comfort and precision cuts: Kyoku Samurai Series – 10.5″

Key Features

  • Blade length: 10.5 inches (26.67 cm)
  • Blade material: Ultra-sharp cobalt-added Japanese steel
  • Blade hardness: HRC 56-58
  • Blade angle: 11-13° single side
  • Blade edge: Razor sharp
  • Blade type: Yanagiba (sashimi) knife
  • Handle material: Wenge wood
  • Handle construction: Full tang
  • Handle length: 5.2 inches (13.21 cm)
  • Knife weight: 0.45 lb (0.2 kg)

$44.77

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Pros

  • Cuts fish and meat pretty easily
  • Uninterrupted motion cut is possible
  • Makes ultra-thin slices
  • The knife edge inflicts no damage
  • Preserves the taste of food

Cons

  • The spine is very thick and adds heft to the blade.

Trying to find a traditional sushi knife that combines both comfort and precision? Well, the KYOKU sushi knife is an excellent choice. With a blade length of around 10.5 inches, these knives are ideal for slicing sushi rolls, sashimi, carpaccio, tartare, and much more. 

Here are some features of the blade:

Traditional design with Comfortable handle

In addition to its impressive cutting ability, the Shun sushi knife comes with comfort in mind. The handle is constructed from durable materials that provide a comfortable grip, allowing sushi chefs to work for long periods without any discomfort.

Long-lasting edge retention

One of the key advantages of the knife is its long-lasting edge retention. The high-quality Japanese steel is to thank here. You will find that the blade is crafted using traditional Japanese knife-making techniques, resulting in a razor-sharp edge. 

So, you can cut through even the thinnest slices of fish worry-free.

Thin slices for sushi, sashimi, extra-thin carpaccio, tartare, and so on

It doesn’t matter how long you have been in the cooking game, a thin and durable blade will always help. The knife is highly versatile and can slice through almost any meat or fish. 

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How To Buy The Best Sushi Or Sashimi Knife: Buying Guide

Are you in the market for a new sushi or sashimi knife but feeling overwhelmed by the options available? Don’t worry; we’re here to help with Japanese sushi knives for making sushi. 

Here are the key factors that sushi chefs consider before buying their knives: 

Choose the Right Steel for Superior Performance

The quality of the blade material is critical to the performance and longevity of the knife. Yes, Japanese knives are typically made of high-carbon steel or stainless steel, but keep a close eye on it. 

High-carbon steel provides a sharp and precise edge, while stainless steel is more durable and resistant to rust and staining.

Understanding the Blade Shape

A good blade shape is another crucial factor to consider. A sushi knife should have a long, thin, and slightly curved blade. It’s perfect for slicing through fish and vegetables with ease. 

The Perfect Blade Length

Now, pick a sushi blade 7 to 10 inches in length. However, the size of the blade will depend on the type of fish or food that you will be cutting. You can even go for knives that are 9 to 14 inches in length.

Finding the Best Handle Material for Comfort and Control

A good handle material means better comfort and grip. In Japanese sushi knives, you will often have a traditional wooden handle, which is great for secure grip and comfort.

Then again, there are also knives with handles made of plastic, metal, or other materials. Just make sure it doesn’t stress your hands. 

Invest in the Quality

Generally speaking, the higher the knife quality, the more expensive it gets. They tend to provide superior performance and longevity as well. If you are on a budget, there are also affordable options available that can still perform well for everyday use.

Trust the Pros (Go For Brand Reputation)

In the end, look for brands that have been in the knife business for generations. Don’t let your sushi knife investment go to waste. Though reputed brands will charge you a bit more, it’s worth it, especially when considering the years of service life you will get. 

What Is The Difference Between Sushi And Sashimi Knives?

Sushi knives are typically thicker and heavier, and they may come with a double or single-bevel blade (8 to 10 inches) for versatility in slicing sushi rolls. Sashimi knives are longer (9-14 inches), thinner, and single-beveled for precision cuts on raw fish.

What Is Special About A Sushi Knife?

A sushi knife, as the name suggests, is meant to make your sushi look and taste amazing. A regular chef’s knife may slice the sushi rolls, but rather than making fine slices, it pressures the roll too much. Having a sushi knife bypasses this problem and preserves the taste in the process.

What Knife Is Good For Sashimi?

A single-bevel knife with long, thin blades, which can make precise cuts through raw fish, is suitable for sashimi. The single bevel creates a sharper edge that cuts through the fish fibers without tearing, resulting in clean slices of sashimi. The knife should be 9 to 14 inches long.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best material for a sushi knife is Damascus steel. However, they can be pretty expensive, so high-carbon steel or regular stainless steel can also work. Just don't go with ordinary steel or iron. They are pretty bad and will rust quickly.

Professional sushi chefs use good sushi knives that are long and can slice sashimi and fillet fish. They also use usuba, which is a vegetable knife meant for making precise vegetable and herb cuts.

For beginners, it's essential to look for a sashimi knife that is easy to handle and maneuver. Get a blade that is at least 9 inches, as this provides a good balance between precision and control.

The Yoshihiro Shiroko Sashimi Knife, Global G-48 Sashimi Knife, and the Shun Classic Gokujo Boning knife are some of the best sashimi knives in the market.

When slicing fish for sashimi, the best knife is a thin blade and a single bevel. It also needs to be thin enough to cut the fish without too much downward pressure.

End Note

Well, we have hit the end of it. In the kitchen knife world, finding the best sushi knife shouldn’t be too difficult. Just keep it long, sharp, and durable. 
For us, the Japanbargain 1560 Extra Long Sushi Sashimi Knife wins them all. It has a wooden handle for a comfortable grip and a long-lasting carbon stainless steel blade. You can even make delicate fish fillets or thin sashimi slices.
Which one are you going with? Let us know in the comments and enjoy slicing with your sushi knife! 

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