Best Carving Knives of 2025

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

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Carving knives are essential tools for any kitchen or culinary enthusiast. These knives are specifically designed to carve and slice through meat, poultry, and fish with ease. With a sharp and sturdy blade, carving knives are perfect for slicing through thick cuts of meat or poultry, allowing for precise and even slices. These knives come in various sizes and styles, from the traditional long and narrow blade to the more modern curved blade. Carving knives are a must-have for any home cook or professional chef looking to create beautiful and delicious dishes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cutluxe 12" Slicing Carving Knife - Razor Sharp Meat and BBQ Knife Cover #TOP 1
Cutluxe 12" Slicing Carving Knife - Razor Sharp Meat and BBQ Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
MAIRICO 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife Cover #TOP 2
MAIRICO 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Victorinox 12-Inch Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife Cover #TOP 3
Victorinox 12-Inch Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Carving Knives

#TOP 1

Cutluxe 12" Slicing Carving Knife - Razor Sharp Meat and BBQ Knife

ART-SLC-12-1
Black
Cutluxe 12" Slicing Carving Knife - Razor Sharp Meat and BBQ Knife Cover
Cutluxe Slicing Carving Knife – 12" Brisket Knife, Meat Cutting and BBQ Knife – Razor Sharp German Steel, Sheath Included, Full Tang, Ergonomic Handle Design – Artisan Series

The Cutluxe Slicing Carving Knife is a premium performance cutting tool perfect for effortless carving and slicing of brisket, turkey, roast, ribs, prosciutto, and other meats. The razor-sharp granton blade edge is hand sharpened at 14-16 degrees per side for maximum sharpness and edge retention. The full tang ergonomic design of the luxury pakkawood handle is triple-riveted for a sure grip and absolute stability, ensuring comfort and maneuverability. The knife is precisely forged from high-carbon German steel engineered to perfection at 56+ Rockwell hardness, making it long-lasting, rust, and stain-resistant. The Cutluxe Slicing Carving Knife comes with a lifetime warranty against material or workmanship defects, making it a risk-free purchase.

What We Like
Beautiful packaging
Very sharp blade
Solid and comfortable handle
Excellent cutting performance
Good storage case
What We Don't Like
Minor handle alignment issue
Initial dullness reported
#TOP 2

MAIRICO 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife

8541906658
Stainless Steel
MAIRICO 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife Cover
MAIRICO Brisket Slicing Knife - Ultra Sharp Premium 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife for Slicing Roasts, Meats, Fruits and Vegetables

The MAIRICO 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife delivers impeccable performance with its ultra-sharp blade made of superb quality, premium stainless steel. The blade is engineered to cut through precisely with minimal effort and is built to last. Its preferred length by professionals makes it versatile to cut through different types of meat, brisket, pork loins, turkey, ham, smoked salmon, roasts, fruits and vegetables. Its ergonomic design provides well-balanced weight distribution and secure grip, making it safe and comfortable to use. Plus, it comes with a top performance guarantee that allows you to return it for a full refund if you're not satisfied.

What We Like
Super sharp blade
Beautiful design and packaging
Effortless slicing
Durable and long-lasting
Comfortable handle
What We Don't Like
Minor cosmetic flaw noted
#TOP 3

Victorinox 12-Inch Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife

5.4723.30
Black
Victorinox 12-Inch Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife Cover
Victorinox Fibrox Pro 12-Inch Slicing Knife with Granton Edge and Black Handle

The Victorinox 12-Inch Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife is a versatile kitchen tool that can handle nearly every kitchen task imaginable. With a long, narrow shape and razor sharp edge, this knife can slice through meats in a single, smooth motion. The Granton Blade creates air pockets to minimize friction, making smaller and thinner slices easier and more uniform. The ergonomic Fibrox Pro handle offers a non-slip grip, even when wet. This exceptional knife is weighted and balanced for easy handling, and is dishwasher safe.

What We Like
Extremely sharp blade
Produces even slices
Comfortable handle
Lightweight and maneuverable
High-quality Swiss made
What We Don't Like
Large size for some users
No edge guard included
#TOP 4

HOSHANHO 12 Inch Carving Knife

12 inch Carving Knife
Silver
HOSHANHO 12 Inch Carving Knife Cover
HOSHANHO Carving Knife 12 Inch, Japanese AUS-10 Slicing Knife with Ergonomic Pakkawood Handle, Razor Sharp Brisket Knife for Meat Cutting, BBQ, Turkey

The HOSHANHO Carving Knife is designed for effortless meat cutting and slicing. Its 15-degree ground edge allows you to cut through meat with minimal resistance, making it perfect for BBQs and brisket trimming. Made from premium Japanese AUS-10 high-carbon steel, this knife offers excellent durability and maintains its sharpness over time. The ergonomic pakkawood handle ensures comfort and reduces hand fatigue, providing you with better control while slicing. Whether you're preparing a feast or arranging fruits, this versatile knife caters to all your culinary needs.

What We Like
Extremely sharp blade
Comfortable handle grip
Well-built construction
Great price for quality
Beautiful design and craftsmanship
What We Don't Like
Handle fit and finish issues
Lacks protective sheath
#TOP 5

Hammer Stahl Carving Knife and Fork Set

HS-6442
Stainless Steel
Hammer Stahl Carving Knife and Fork Set Cover
German Forged High Carbon Stainless Steel Carving Knife and Fork Set | Professional Meat Carving Set with Ergonomic Pakkawood Handle

The Hammer Stahl Carving Knife and Fork Set is made of German high carbon stainless steel, with a Rockwell hardness of 55-57, and a 20 degree bevel angle for a razor sharp cutting edge. The quad-tang Pakkawood handles provide balance, durability, and comfort, while the set is perfect for precise carving and slicing of poultry, roasts, and more.

What We Like
Ultra-sharp stainless steel blades
Ergonomic and comfortable handles
Beautiful and stylish design
Great value for the price
Well-balanced weight
What We Don't Like
Packaging issues reported
Some find it a bit heavy
#TOP 6

KYOKU 12" Slicing Knife, Samurai Series

GEK12SL22
Black
KYOKU 12" Slicing Knife, Samurai Series Cover
KYOKU 12" Slicing Knife, Samurai Series Brisket Knife for Meat Cutting with Pakkawood Handle, Japanese High Carbon Steel Meat Carving Knife for BBQ Brisket Turkey Ham Rib Roast Beef with Sheath & Case

KYOKU Samurai 12" Slicing Knife is expertly crafted with Japanese high carbon steel, featuring a razor-sharp blade ideal for effortlessly slicing meat, vegetables, and fruits into thin pieces. The precise 13-15 degree honed blade is perfect for slicing hams, ribs, roast beefs, briskets, and prosciutto, while the dimples prevent food from sticking. With a durable full-tang construction and ergonomic Pakkawood handle, this knife provides both comfort and precision. The included sheath and case ensure easy preservation and protection, while the lifetime warranty guarantees peace of mind.

What We Like
Excellent edge retention
Beautifully crafted design
Great weight and balance
Incredible value for the price
Versatile for various kitchen tasks
What We Don't Like
Requires extra honing time
Edge may not hold up long-term
#TOP 7

Babish Super Slicer Carving Knife

131282.01R
Babish Super Slicer Carving Knife Cover
Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel 12 Inch Full Tang Forged Super Slicer Carving Kitchen Knife, Brisket, Meat and BBQ Knife W/Granton Edge

The Babish Carving Knife is a high-quality knife made from high-carbon, 1.4116 German steel. With a Rockwell HRC 55 +/-2 hardness, this knife offers ultimate precision and easy maintenance. The blade is tempered, ground, and polished to ensure maximum sharpness at a 13° cutting edge angle. The forged, full-tang blade and double-bolstered handle provide strength and balance, allowing for comfortable and controlled use. This extra-long knife is designed for cutting clean slices of ham, dry sausages, fish, fruits, and more. Its exceptional sharpness and balance make it a reliable tool for any carving or slicing task. Hand wash only and towel dry immediately for optimal care. Use on sturdy wood or smooth, BPA-free plastic cutting boards for best results. Avoid slicing or cutting on delicate surfaces such as porcelain, marble, granite, tile, stainless steel, or glass.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Sharp and well-balanced
Comfortable handle
Durable and easy to maintain
Versatile for various tasks
What We Don't Like
Possible discomfort with prolonged use
Lower-grade steel than premium knives
#TOP 8

WÜSTHOF Classic 9" Carving Knife

4524-7/23
Black
WÜSTHOF Classic 9" Carving Knife Cover
WÜSTHOF Classic 9" Carving Knife

The Wüsthof Carving Knife is an excellent choice for carving meat. This knife is part of the WÜSTHOF Classic Series, which is a best-selling series for generations. It is precision forged from a single block of high carbon stainless steel and tempered to 58-degree HRC. The Precision Edge Technology (PEtec) yields a blade that is 20% sharper with twice the edge retention than previous models. The knife's longer and narrower blade allows for clean cuts through meats, and the pointed tip helps guide meat away from the bone. The hollow edge is crafted with evenly spaced vertical indentations, which create small air pockets between the blade and the food. The full tang triple riveted synthetic polypropylene handles resist fading, discoloration, heat, and impact. This knife is durable, resists corrosion and dulling, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Wüsthof Carving Knife features a full bolster and finger guard.

What We Like
Very sharp
Easy to handle
Well balanced
Great value
High-quality materials
What We Don't Like
Plastic handles on bonus knives
Cheap appearance of smaller knives
#TOP 9

SYOKAMI Carving Knife, 12 Inch Japanese Brisket Knife

12 Inch Carving Knife
Carving Knife
SYOKAMI Carving Knife, 12 Inch Japanese Brisket Knife Cover
SYOKAMI Multifunction Carving Knife, 12 Inch High-Carbon Japanese Style Brisket Knife with Wood Handle, Damascus Pattern Full Tang Design, Razor Sharp Slicing Knife for Meat Cutting with Gift Box

SYOKAMI Brisket Knife is a high-carbon Japanese style slicing knife that offers incredible razor sharpness for precise cutting. The ergonomic handle provides balance and comfort, ensuring safety during use. With added gear teeth for a non-slip grip, this knife is durable and rust-resistant, perfect for carving roast ham and slicing fruits, vegetables, and bread. The exquisite gift packaging makes it an ideal present for cooking enthusiasts. Try it risk-free with a lifetime warranty.

What We Like
Excellent sharpness
Good balance in hand
Quality materials
Effortless cutting
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Long-term sharpness unknown
#TOP 10

Dalstrong 12" Slicing & Carving Knife - Gladiator Series Elite

Gs-12-slicer
Black G10 Handle
12 inch
Dalstrong 12" Slicing & Carving Knife - Gladiator Series Elite Cover
Dalstrong Slicing Knife - 12 inch - Gladiator Series Elite - Granton Edge - Forged High-Carbon German Steel- G10 Handle - Razor Sharp Carving Knife Gift - w/Sheath - Slicer - NSF Certified

The Dalstrong 12" Slicing & Carving Knife from the Gladiator Series Elite is a must-have for every kitchen. Crafted with outstanding craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, stunning design elements, and premium materials, this razor-sharp slicer boasts imported high-carbon German steel with a hand-polished edge at 16-18 degrees per side, ensuring efficient and satisfying deboning, filleting, and trimming. The blade is engineered to perfection at 56+ Rockwell hardness and hand polished to a satin finish, tapered for improved hardness, flexibility, and minimal slicing resistance. The 12" slicer is perfect for carving roasts, ham, prepping large fruits and vegetables, and slicing bread loaves and layer cakes. Its ergonomic and ambidextrous G10 Garolite handle with mosaic and engraving is laminated and polished for a sanitary build, ensuring superior strength and durability. NSF certified.

What We Like
Beautiful design and craftsmanship
Sharp blade performance
Comfortable handle
Great packaging experience
Excellent customer support
What We Don't Like
Handle tang can be sharp
Fit and finish not perfect
Buying Guide Image

Deciding which Carving Knives is Best for Your House

Introduction

When it comes to carving, having the right tools is essential. The most important tool in a carver's arsenal is the knife, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in the quality and precision of your finished project. In this article, we will explore some key factors to consider when selecting a carving knife.

Blade Shape

The first thing to consider when choosing a carving knife is the shape of the blade. There are several different blade shapes to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits.

The most common blade shape for carving knives is the straight blade, which is useful for making long, straight cuts. This type of blade is especially useful for making long, even cuts in soft woods, like basswood or balsa.

Another popular blade shape is the curved blade, which is useful for making curved cuts. This type of blade is especially useful for making curved cuts in harder woods, like oak or walnut.

Handle Design

The handle of a carving knife is just as important as the blade, as it provides the grip and control necessary for precise carving. When choosing a carving knife, be sure to select one with a comfortable, ergonomic handle that fits securely in your hand.

One popular handle design is the traditional wooden handle, which provides a comfortable, natural grip. However, some carvers prefer a more modern handle design, such as a molded plastic or rubber handle, which provides a secure, non-slip grip.

Blade Material

The material of the blade is another important consideration when choosing a carving knife. The most common blade materials are carbon steel and stainless steel.

Carbon steel blades are known for their durability and ability to hold a sharp edge, making them a popular choice for carving knives. However, carbon steel blades are prone to rust, so they require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent corrosion.

Stainless steel blades, on the other hand, are more resistant to rust and corrosion, but they are not as durable as carbon steel blades and may require more frequent sharpening.

Price and Brand

When it comes to carving knives, there are many different brands and price points to choose from. It's important to remember that the most expensive knife isn't always the best option, and that a well-made, mid-range knife can provide excellent performance and value for the money.

To help you make an informed decision, it's a good idea to do some research and read reviews from other carvers before purchasing a carving knife. This will give you a better idea of the performance and quality of different knives, and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right carving knife can make a big difference in the quality and precision of your finished projects. By considering factors like blade shape, handle design, blade material, price, and brand, you can find the perfect carving knife to suit your needs and help you create beautiful, intricate pieces of art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a carving knife for?

Carving knives are specifically designed for slicing and carving dense meats. They are ideal for cutting thin slices of roast, fruits, and vegetables.

2. What is the difference between a carving knife and a slicing knife?

The main difference between a carving knife and a slicing knife is the shape of the blade. Carving knives have a curved pointed tip that helps them cut around bones, while slicing knives have rounded tips. However, some manufacturers are producing Japanese-inspired slicing knives with pointed tips.

3. What kind of knife is best for cutting turkey?

For cutting turkey, a carving knife is the best option. Carving knives have long, narrow blades that taper to a sharp point. They are thin and flexible, allowing them to easily navigate around the turkey's bones and cartilage to get every bit of meat. Carving knives can also be used for chicken, leg of lamb, ham, and other meats.

4. Do you really need a carving knife?

While a chef knife can handle the occasional steak, investing in a carving knife is worth it if you regularly cook and serve large amounts of meat. Carving knives are designed to easily maneuver around the contours of a roast and effectively remove every piece of meat off the bone.

5. What knife do chefs use most?

The Santoku knife is a versatile tool that many professional chefs prefer. It can be used for chopping, filleting, slicing, and dicing meats, vegetables, and fruits. Its sharpness and precision make it a favorite among chefs.

6. Why do carving knives have rounded tips?

Carving knives have rounded tips to facilitate slicing through meat. The curved edge of the knife makes it easier to make precise cuts and navigate around bones while carving.

7. What size knife do I need to carve a turkey?

To carve a turkey, it is recommended to have a boning knife and a slicing knife. The boning knife is small, flexible, and sharp, making it ideal for removing meat from the carcass. The slicing knife should be 9 to 11 inches long and razor-sharp for clean and precise slicing.

8. Do you use a serrated knife to carve a turkey?

While a sharp knife is essential for carving a turkey, you can use either a sharp knife or a serrated knife. Both can effectively carve the meat, ensuring each slice retains the delicious skin.

Editor's Notes

During our carving knives research, we found 24 carving knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 155,967 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carving knives list. We found that most customers choose carving knives with an average price of $32.80.

The carving knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carving knives, including Cutluxe, MAIRICO, Victorinox, HOSHANHO, Hammer Stahl. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 651 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.

Carving Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Cutluxe MAIRICO Victorinox HOSHANHO Hammer Stahl KYOKU Babish Wüsthof SYOKAMI Dalstrong
Handle Material Pakkawood Stainless,Stainless Steel,Steel Thermoplastic Rubber Wood High-carbon,Stainless,Stainless Steel,Steel Pakkawood Plastic Stainless Steel,Polypropylene Wood Steel
Item Weight 0.6 Pounds 0.9 Pounds 7.2 ounces 1.2 Pounds 1.72 pounds 8.6 Ounces 13.6 ounces 4.8 ounces 0.95 Pounds 16 ounces
Is Dishwasher Safe
Blade Material High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel - High Carbon Steel High Carbon Steel, High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel High Carbon Steel
Color Black Stainless Steel Black Silver - Black Super Slicer - High Carbon Stainless Black Carving Knife Black G10 Handle
Blade Edge Hollow Hollow Hollow Plain - Hollow Granton, Plain Slicing Knife Plain Hollow
Blade Length 12 Inches 11 Inches 12 Inches 12 Inches - 12 Inches 12 Inches 9 Inches 12 Inches 12 Inches
Construction Type Forged Forged Stamped Forged - Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged
Blade Color Silver Stainless Steel Silver Silver - Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver
Item Length 12 Inches 11 Inches 18 Inches 12 Inches - 16.7 Inches 16 Inches 16.3 Inches 16.4 Inches 12 Inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy