Best Boning Knives of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Boning knives are an essential tool for any home or professional chef who wants to prepare meat with precision and accuracy. These knives are specifically designed to remove bones from meat, making it easier to cook and serve. Boning knives typically have a thin and flexible blade that allows the user to maneuver around bones and joints with ease. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from narrow and pointed to wider and more curved. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, a good boning knife is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Victorinox 6" Boning Knife with Rosewood Handle Cover #TOP 1
Victorinox 6" Boning Knife with Rosewood Handle
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mercer Culinary 6 inch Boning Knife Cover #TOP 2
Mercer Culinary 6 inch Boning Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife – 6" Deboning Knife Cover #TOP 3
Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife – 6" Deboning Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Boning Knives

#TOP 1

Victorinox 6" Boning Knife with Rosewood Handle

5.6606.15
Victorinox 6" Boning Knife with Rosewood Handle Cover
Victorinox 6" Professional Boning Knife, Curved Blade, Semi-stiff, Maple Wood Handle 5.6606.15

The Victorinox 6" Boning Knife with Rosewood Handle features a curved, semi-stiff blade that is extremely sharp and holds its edge well. The handle is ergonomically designed to minimize wrist tension and provide a natural fit. This knife is perfect for deboning meat or poultry with precision.

What We Like
High-quality craftsmanship
Very sharp out of the box
Holds edge well
Comfortable grip
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Some gaps in the handle
Blade flexibility may vary
#TOP 2

Mercer Culinary 6 inch Boning Knife

M18180
White
Mercer Culinary 6 inch Boning Knife Cover
Mercer Culinary Ultimate White, 6 inch Curved Boning Knife

The Mercer Culinary 6 inch Boning Knife is made of high-carbon Japanese steel for easy edge maintenance and a long-lasting razor-sharp blade. The knife features an ergonomic handle with textured finger points for a non-slip grip that provides comfort, durability, and safety. This knife is perfect for deboning chicken, ham, and fish, or trimming fat and sinew. Careful hand washing is recommended for the longevity of the knife. This knife is perfect for both professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts in need of a quality boning knife.

What We Like
Razor sharp out of the box
Comfortable, non-slip handle
Excellent sturdiness and construction
Great for butchering and trimming
Maintains sharpness well
What We Don't Like
Stiff blade, limited flexibility
Requires occasional sharpening
#TOP 3

Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife – 6" Deboning Knife

ART-BON-06-1
Black
Boning Knife 6"
Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife – 6" Deboning Knife Cover
Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife – 6" Deboning Knife, Perfect for Meat Trimming – Razor Sharp Blade from High Carbon German Steel – Full Tang & Ergonomic Handle Design – Artisan Series

The Cutluxe Boning & Fillet Knife is a premium performance blade perfect for effortless filleting, de-boning, trimming, skinning and butterflying of meat and fish. The hand sharpened edge at 14-16 degrees per side ensures maximum sharpness & edge retention ensuring precision slicing every time. The luxury pakkawood handle is triple-riveted for a sure grip and absolute stability that ensures comfort and maneuverability. The blade is made of high-carbon German steel engineered to perfection at 56+ Rockwell hardness for lasting performance, rust and stain resistance.

What We Like
Incredible sharpness
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Excellent balance and control
High-quality durable materials
Versatile for various meats
What We Don't Like
Shipping issues for some customers
#TOP 4

Mercer Culinary 6 Inch Boning Knife

M18100
White
6" Boning Knife
Mercer Culinary 6 Inch Boning Knife Cover
Mercer Culinary Ultimate White, 6 Inch Boning Knife

The Mercer Boning Knife is expertly crafted with high-carbon Japanese steel, ensuring that you enjoy a sharp blade that is easy to maintain. Its ergonomic handle features textured points for a secure grip, providing you with comfort and safety while you work. This knife is perfect for deboning chicken, ham, and fish, allowing you to separate meat from bone with ease. To keep your knife in top condition, simply wash it by hand with warm water and mild soap after each use, avoiding the dishwasher for longevity.

What We Like
Sharp and sturdy
Good quality materials
Ergonomic handle
Easy to sharpen
Excellent for meat trimming
What We Don't Like
Somewhat stiff blade
Handle can be slippery
#TOP 5

Cutluxe 6" Curved Boning Knife

Cutluxe 6" Curved Boning Knife Cover
Cutluxe Curved Boning Knife – 6" Boning Knife for Meat Cutting, Fillet Knife – High Carbon German Steel, Full Tang & Ergonomic Handle Design – Artisan Series

The Cutluxe Boning Knife is expertly designed for those who enjoy preparing meat and fish. Its curved blade is sharpened to perfection, making tasks like filleting and de-boning feel effortless. You’ll appreciate the precision this knife provides, ensuring clean cuts every time. The ergonomic handle, crafted from luxury pakkawood, offers a comfortable grip, allowing for easy maneuvering as you work. Made from high-carbon German steel, this knife is durable and resistant to rust and stains, promising long-lasting performance in your kitchen.

What We Like
Very sharp blade
Well-balanced and sturdy
Holds edge well
Excellent for deboning
Good feel in hand
What We Don't Like
Sharpness inconsistency noted
Edge retention uncertain long-term
#TOP 6

Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6-inch Curved Boning Knife

5.6613.15-X1
Black
Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6-inch Curved Boning Knife Cover
Victorinox Swiss Army Fibrox Pro Curved Boning Knife, Flexible Blade, 6-Inch, Black

The Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6-inch Curved Boning Knife is a versatile tool that can trim or remove meat from the bone with ease, thanks to its pointed tip and curved-edge design. It is ideal for delicate cuts such as poultry and fish. The knife features an ergonomic Fibrox Pro handle for a non-slip grip, even when wet, and is weighted and balanced for easy handling and comfort. The stainless steel blade measures 6" in length and meets the strict National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) standards for public health protection. Crafted in Switzerland in 1884, this knife comes with a lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship.

What We Like
Exceptional sharpness
Comfortable grip
Durable and long-lasting
Versatile for various meats
Easy to control
What We Don't Like
Occasionally high price
Difficult to sharpen
#TOP 7

Victorinox 6 Inch Curved Fibrox Pro Boning Knife

5.6603.15
Black
6 units
Victorinox 6 Inch Curved Fibrox Pro Boning Knife Cover
Victorinox 6 Inch Curved Fibrox Pro Boning Knife with Semi-stiff Blade

This boning knife features a curved and narrow stainless steel blade with a length of 15 cm. It is designed for removing bones from meat, poultry, and fish with precision and ease. The semi-stiff blade provides the right amount of flexibility and rigidity for efficient and effortless cuts. This knife is a must-have for chefs and home cooks who value high-quality and reliable kitchen tools.

What We Like
Extremely sharp out of the box
Comfortable, slip-free handle
Easy to clean and maintain
Holds edge well after sharpening
Good quality at an affordable price
What We Don't Like
Not very sharp from vendor
#TOP 8

KYOKU Samurai Series Boning Knife

GEK65BN22
Black
6.5"
KYOKU Samurai Series Boning Knife Cover
KYOKU 6.5" Boning Knife for Meat Cutting, Samurai Series Filet Knife with Pakkawood Handle, Japanese High Carbon Steel Knife, Full Tang Kitchen Knife for Lamb Chop Pork Shoulder with Sheath and Case

KYOKU Samurai Series Boning Knife is expertly crafted with Japanese high carbon steel for superior performance and durability. Its 6.5" curved blade makes it ideal for effectively separating meat from bones. The ultra-sharp blade, honed to 13-15 degrees, allows for deboning pork shoulders, lamb chops, and beef ribeye with minimal resistance. The knife features a durable full-tang construction and an ergonomic Pakkawood handle with a signature mosaic pin, providing both precision and comfort for long-term use. It comes with a protective sheath and case for easy storage and transportation. With a lifelong warranty and 24/7 customer service, this knife ensures peace of mind for all your meat cutting needs.

What We Like
Excellent edge retention
Beautifully crafted appearance
Great value for the price
Comfortable ergonomic design
Versatile for various kitchen tasks
What We Don't Like
Requires extra touchup work
Edge flexibility could be improved
#TOP 9

HENCKELS Forged Premio Boning Knife, 5.5-inch

16904-141
5.5"
HENCKELS Forged Premio Boning Knife, 5.5-inch Cover
HENCKELS Forged Premio Boning Knife, 5.5-inch, Black/Stainless Steel

The HENCKELS Forged Premio Boning Knife is made of high-quality German stainless steel with forged bolster construction, providing durability and a seamless transition from blade to handle. The precision-cut, satin-finished blade is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness, and the modern triple-rivet design is curved for comfort. The knife also features a stylish and sturdy stainless steel logo-stamped endcap and is dishwasher safe. This boning knife is a great addition to any kitchen.

What We Like
Comfortable handle
Sharp right out of the box
Good balance and weight
Easy to sharpen
Durable for regular use
What We Don't Like
Handle may crack over time
Packaging could be better
#TOP 10

imarku Boning Knife

imarku
Silver with Brown
6.8"
imarku Boning Knife Cover
imarku Boning Knife, German High Carbon Stainless Steel Professional Grade Boning Fillet Knife, 6-Inch Deboning Knife, Pakkawood Handle for Meat and Poultry, Gifts for Men and Women

The imarku Boning Knife is made of high-carbon German stainless steel and has a sharp narrow blade, outstanding performance, and an ergonomic Pakkawood handle. It is properly balanced and allows for precise close-to-bone slicing. Hand washing is recommended, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee.

What We Like
Very sharp blade
Excellent quality
Comfortable handle
Easy maintenance
Good balance
What We Don't Like
Requires frequent sharpening
Buying Guide Image

How to Choose The Right Boning Knives for Your Home

Introduction

If you're a culinary enthusiast or a professional chef, you know that having the right tools is crucial to creating delicious dishes. One essential tool in any kitchen is a boning knife.

What is a Boning Knife?

A boning knife is a specialized knife that is designed for removing bones from meat, poultry, and fish. It typically has a narrow and flexible blade that allows the user to easily maneuver around bones and joints.

How to Choose a Boning Knife

When it comes to choosing a boning knife, there are a few key factors to consider.

Blade Length and Flexibility

Boning knives typically range in length from 5 to 7 inches. A shorter blade is ideal for removing bones from smaller cuts of meat, such as chicken breasts, while a longer blade is better suited for larger cuts of meat, such as a pork loin or a leg of lamb. As for flexibility, a knife with a slightly flexible blade will make it easier to navigate around bones and joints.

Blade Material

Boning knives are typically made from high-carbon stainless steel or ceramic. High-carbon stainless steel blades are durable and resist rust and stains, but they can be difficult to sharpen. Ceramic blades, on the other hand, are extremely sharp and easy to maintain, but they are more brittle and can break if used improperly.

Handle Material and Design

The handle of a boning knife should be comfortable to hold and provide a secure grip. It's a good idea to choose a knife with a handle made from a material that won't slip or become slippery when wet, such as rubber or a polymer. The design of the handle should also allow for easy maneuverability and control.

Price

Boning knives can range in price from under $10 to several hundred dollars. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, it's important to remember that a high-quality knife will last longer and perform better. It's worth investing in a knife that will serve you well and make the task of removing bones easier and more efficient.

Conclusion

Choosing the right boning knife can make all the difference in the kitchen. By considering factors such as blade length and flexibility, blade material, handle material and design, and price, you can find a knife that will suit your needs and help you create delicious dishes with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a boning knife used for?

A boning knife is specifically designed for removing meat from bones, cutting through connective tissue, and separating meat from fat or joints. Its slightly flexible blade allows for maneuvering in small spaces, making it ideal for tasks that require precision and control.

2. What is the best length for a boning knife?

The length of a boning knife can vary between 5 to 7 inches. Longer and straighter boning knives are better suited for removing large portions of meat, while slimmer and curvier ones offer more precision. The choice of length and shape depends on personal preference and the specific task at hand.

3. What is a boning knife vs fillet knife?

Boning knives and fillet knives have some similarities but also distinct differences. Boning knives are thicker, sturdier, and straighter than fillet knives. They are designed for removing meat from bones and cutting through connective tissue. Fillet knives, on the other hand, are more flexible and slender, making them ideal for removing scales and tiny bones from fish.

4. Should a boning knife be curved?

A good boning knife should have a slightly flexible blade that can curve around bones and cleanly slice off meat. However, the spine of the blade should be straight for better accuracy and ease of use. The sharpness of the knife's edge is also important for effectively separating joints and trimming off fat or silverskin.

5. Can I use a filleting knife as a boning knife?

While fillet knives and boning knives can be used interchangeably in some cases, it is not ideal. Fillet knives are better suited for removing scales and tiny bones from fish, while boning knives are designed specifically for removing meat from bones and cutting through connective tissue. The rigidity of a boning knife may hinder its effectiveness as a fillet knife.

6. Can you use a boning knife to fillet fish?

A well-crafted boning knife with a thin and flexible blade can be used for filleting fish. However, it is important to prioritize flexibility over hardness when choosing a boning knife for fish filleting. While a boning knife can double as a fillet knife, the reverse is not necessarily true due to the differences in blade design and flexibility.

Editor's Notes

During our boning knives research, we found 24 boning knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 114,374 customer reviews through our big data system to write the boning knives list. We found that most customers choose boning knives with an average price of $28.77.

The boning knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of boning knives, including Victorinox, Mercer Culinary, Cutluxe, KYOKU, HENCKELS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 339 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Boning Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Victorinox Mercer Culinary Cutluxe Mercer Culinary Cutluxe Victorinox Victorinox KYOKU HENCKELS imarku
Blade Material Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel
Handle Material Wood Handle,Stainless Steel,Metal Polypropylene Steel Polypropylene Pakkawood Stainless Steel Thermoplastic Rubber Pakkawood Stainless,Stainless Steel,Steel Pakkawood
Blade Edge Plain Hollow Plain Hollow Plain Plain Plain Plain Boning/Fillet Plain
Blade Length 6 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 6 Inches 15 Centimeters 6.5 Inches 5.5 Inches 6.8 Inches
Is Dishwasher Safe
Item Weight 3.2 ounces 4.6 Ounces 4.96 ounces 18.14 g 13.4 ounces 0.1 Kilograms 3.17 ounces 3.84 ounces 0.4 Pounds 12 ounces
Construction Type Stamped Stamped Forged Stamped Forged - Stamped Forged Stamped, Forged Forged
Item Length 6 Inches 6 Inches 10.5 Inches 6 Inches - 11.25 Inches 12 Inches 11.4 Inches 10.79 Inches 11.8 Inches
Size 6" 6" Curved Boning Knife Boning Knife 6" 6" Boning Knife - 6" 6 units 6.5" 5.5" 6.8"
Color - White Black White - Black Black Black Black/Stainless Steel Silver with Brown
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
Where to Buy