Best Carbon Steel Knives of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Carbon steel knives are a popular choice among professional chefs and home cooks alike. Known for their sharpness and durability, carbon steel knives are made from a combination of carbon and iron, making them stronger and more resistant to wear and tear than other types of steel. They are also easier to sharpen and maintain, making them a great investment for anyone who loves to cook. While they may require a bit more care than other knives, the superior cutting performance and longevity of carbon steel knives make them a must-have for any serious cook.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics 14-Piece Kitchen Knife Set Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics 14-Piece Kitchen Knife Set
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Opinel No.06 Folding Knife Cover #TOP 2
Opinel No.06 Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Astercook 6-Piece Knife Set Cover #TOP 3
Astercook 6-Piece Knife Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Carbon Steel Knives

Amazon Basics 14-Piece Kitchen Knife Set

Amazon Basics
P989
Black
14-Piece
Amazon Basics 14-Piece Kitchen Knife Set Cover
Amazon Basics 14-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife Set with Sharpener and Pinewood Block, Black

The Amazon Basics Knife Set is a countertop knife block set that includes everything you need for everyday cutting and food prep in the kitchen. This 14-piece set comes with 11 knives, a pair of kitchen scissors, a knife sharpener, and a pine storage block. The knives in this set feature high carbon stainless-steel blades, which provide precision results and lasting sharpness. With the triple-rivet full tang, black ergonomic knife handles, you can enjoy a comfortable and secure grip while using the knives. The set includes a variety of knives for different purposes, such as a chef's knife, slicing knife, bread knife, utility knife, and steak knives. The Amazon Basics Knife Set is a practical and convenient choice for any home cook.

What We Like
Versatile
Sharp and durable
Comfortable grip
#TOP 2

Opinel No.06 Folding Knife

113060
2.9"
Opinel No.06 Folding Knife Cover
Opinel No.06 Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife with Beechwood Handle

The Opinel Folding Knife is a timeless tool that has remained unchanged since 1890, making it a reliable choice for both outdoor enthusiasts and DIYers. Its Stainless Virobloc safety ring ensures that the blade remains securely locked, providing peace of mind during use. Crafted from high-quality carbon steel, this knife delivers exceptional cutting performance, allowing you to tackle various tasks with ease. The handle, made from durable French Beechwood, offers a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle for extended periods. With its blend of tradition and functionality, this knife is an essential addition to your gear.

What We Like
Durable beechwood handle
Exceptional cutting quality
Secure locking mechanism
Timeless design
#TOP 3

Astercook 6-Piece Knife Set

6PCS-Black
Astercook 6-Piece Knife Set Cover
Knife Set, 6 Piece Kitchen Knife Set, High Carbon German Stainless Steel Knives Set, Non-stick Coating, Ultra Sharp, Dishwasher Safe

The Astercook Kitchen Knives set offers a range of features designed to enhance your cooking experience. The blades are coated with a special Teflon layer that prevents rust and sticking, making them easy to clean and maintain. You can confidently place them in the dishwasher without worrying about damage. This set includes various knives, ensuring you have the right tool for every culinary task. The ergonomic handles provide a comfortable grip, allowing you to use them for extended periods without discomfort, thanks to the added anti-slip design for safety.

What We Like
Non-stick and rust-resistant blades
Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Variety of knives for all tasks
Comfortable ergonomic handles
Lifetime warranty included

Astercook Knife Set with Built-in Sharpener Block

K15016P
Black
Astercook Knife Set with Built-in Sharpener Block Cover
Astercook Knife Set, 15 Pieces Kitchen knives Set with Built-in Sharpener, High Carbon German Stainless Steel Chef Knife Block Sets, Sharp & Rust Resistant Dishwasher Safe, Black

The Astercook Knife Set with Built-in Sharpener Block is a 14-piece high-quality kitchen knife set made of tarnish and rust-resistant high carbon stainless steel. Each knife is easy to sharpen with the built-in sharpener, and the ergonomically designed handles ensure smooth and comfortable use. The black knife block is made of hard wood, which is durable and provides long-lasting storage for knives. The set includes 6 serrated steak knives, 1 pair of kitchen shears, and is dishwasher safe for easy maintenance.

What We Like
High-quality and durable
Built-in sharpener for easy resharpening
Ergonomically designed handles for comfort

HOSHANHO 7-Inch Fillet Knife

7 inch Fillet Knife
Silver
HOSHANHO 7-Inch Fillet Knife Cover
HOSHANHO Fillet Knife 7 Inch, Super Sharp Boning Knife in High Carbon Steel AUS-10, Professional Japanese Fish Knife for Meat Poultry Cutting

The HOSHANHO Fillet Knife is crafted from premium AUS-10 high carbon steel, ensuring a sharp and durable blade for all your cutting needs. Its 7-inch slender design makes slicing, boning, and trimming meat and fish effortless, giving you precise cuts with minimal waste. The ergonomic handle, made of durable pakkawood, provides a comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during long cooking sessions. This knife is not only versatile for various meats but also features a unique frosted texture, making it a standout addition to your kitchen tools.

What We Like
Durable high carbon steel
Ergonomic, comfortable handle
Versatile for multiple meats
Precision cutting with minimal waste
#TOP 6

HOSHANHO 7 Inch Japanese Chef Knife

7 inch Santoku Knife
Silver
HOSHANHO 7 Inch Japanese Chef Knife Cover
HOSHANHO 7 Inch Japanese Chef Knife, Ultra Sharp High Carbon Stainless Steel AUS-10 Kitchen Knife, Professional Santoku Knives with Ergonomic Pakkawood Handle

HOSHANHO Chef Knife is a high-quality kitchen knife made of ultra-tough stainless steel. Its blade is forged with triple-layer laminated steel, providing durability and resistance to cold, heat, and corrosion. The blade is made of high-end Japanese steel AUS-10, which is two times harder than other knives in its class. The unique design of the knife includes a frosted finish and a hand-sharpened 15° blade angle, allowing for thinner cuts and more precise tasks in the kitchen. The double-side groove design reduces cutting resistance and prevents food from sticking. The knife also features an ergonomic Pakkawood handle, ensuring optimum comfort, control, and agility. With its versatility, this Santoku knife is suitable for both home and professional use, making it perfect for chopping, slicing, dicing, and cutting various ingredients. The knife comes packaged in a luxurious gift box, making it an ideal gift for any cook or knife enthusiast.

What We Like
Ultra-tough stainless steel blade
Unique and fashion design
Ergonomic Pakkawood handle

Brewin CHEFILOSOPHI 5-Piece Chef Knife Set

BREWIN-US
Brewin CHEFILOSOPHI 5-Piece Chef Knife Set Cover
Brewin CHEFILOSOPHI Japanese Chef Knife Set 5 PCS with Elegant Red Pakkawood Handle Ergonomic Design,Professional Ultra Sharp Kitchen Knives for Cooking High Carbon Stainless Steel

Brewin's CHEFILOSOPHI 5-Piece Chef Knife Set is a top-shelf cooking knife set that has been painstakingly crafted with expert chefs in mind. Featuring ultra-tough 1.4116 German stainless steel with a Rockwell hardness score of 56+, these knives are razor sharp and highly durable. The ergonomic design of the Pakkawood handles ensures perfect balance and a luxurious feel. This set includes two 8-inch knives, a Santoku Japanese knife, a 5-inch utility knife, and a smaller paring knife for peeling and prep.

What We Like
High-quality and affordable
Exceptional sharpness and durability
Elegant red Pakkawood handle for a comfortable grip
Effortlessly cuts through meats and vegetables
Comes with a stylish presentation box for easy storage

Misono Swedish Carbon Steel Gyutou Knife

9.4"
Misono Swedish Carbon Steel Gyutou Knife Cover
Misono Swedish Carbon Steel Gyutou 9.4" (24cm)

The Misono Swedish Carbon Steel Gyutou Knife is hand forged with the highest grade Swedish carbon steel, making it one of the purest forms of carbon steel available. This multi-purpose chef's knife can be used for cutting meat, fish and vegetables, and is suitable for preparing Western cuisine. With its exceptional sharpness, created by the 70:30 asymmetrical bevel, this knife maintains its sharpness longer than most other chef knives. However, as carbon knives are non-stain resistant, one must take care of their knives to ensure longevity.

What We Like
Hand forged with highest grade Swedish carbon steel, considered one of the purest forms of carbon steel
Exceptional sharpness created by the 70:30 asymmetrical bevel, maintaining sharpness longer than most other chef knives
Multi-purpose chef's knife suitable for preparing a variety of foods, including meat, fish, and vegetables

MOSFiATA 8" Professional Chef's Knife

CK0401
Silver
MOSFiATA 8" Professional Chef's Knife Cover
MOSFiATA 8" Super Sharp Professional Chef's Knife with Finger Guard and Knife Sharpener, German High Carbon Stainless Steel EN1.4116 with Micarta Handle and Gift Box

The MOSFiATA 8" Professional Chef's Knife is a high-quality kitchen tool made from German EN1.4116 stainless steel with a laser-engraved pattern and a 15% chrome anti-tarnish finish. The ergonomic handle is made of santoprene and polypropylene for comfort and durability, and the full tang construction provides extra strength and stability. Customers love the sharpness and ease of use, and appreciate the included stainless steel finger guard, knife sharpener, and blade guard.

What We Like
Super sharp
Comfortable handle
Includes finger guard and knife sharpener
Durable and long-lasting
#TOP 10

Opinel No. 102 Paring Knives Set

001222
Natural Beechwood
No. 102
Opinel No. 102 Paring Knives Set Cover
Opinel No. 102 Paring Knives 2 PIECE SET, Carbon Steel Everyday Use Prep Knives for Chopping, Peeling, Slicing, Trimming, Stabilized Sustainably Harvested Beechwood Handles, Made in France

The Opinel Paring Knives Set is a practical addition to your kitchen, ideal for various tasks like chopping, peeling, and slicing. This essential tool helps you effortlessly peel garlic, mince herbs, and trim meat, making your food prep more efficient. With a focus on affordability, these knives bring the essence of French cuisine to your home without overspending. Crafted with care in the French Alps since 1890, they reflect a blend of simplicity and durability, enhancing your cooking experience while also serving as a stylish table accessory.

What We Like
Versatile kitchen tool
Affordable quality
Durable design
Classic French craftsmanship
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is carbon steel good for knives?

Carbon and stainless steel are both capable of making excellent knives that are durable and can get very sharp.

2. Do chefs use carbon steel knives?

A carbon steel knife is essential for professional chefs because it remains sharp with little sharpening. These knives are highly durable and stay in their form despite regular use. Carbon steel knives are also incredibly stiff, and they do the job even with tough-to-cut solids or other rough knife work.

3. What is the disadvantage of using a carbon steel knife?

Over time, the blade will turn totally black, although the discoloration does not adversely affect the knife's cutting ability or impart foods with odd tastes or colors. High carbon steel is also susceptible to rust and requires regular scouring with stainless steel pads to keep it clean and shiny.

4. Is carbon steel better than stainless steel?

Although it's stronger and more durable than stainless steel, carbon steel may rust and corrode when exposed to moisture. Even small amounts of moisture, including moisture vapor in the air, can cause carbon steel to rust. Furthermore, carbon steel is less ductile than stainless steel.

Editor's Notes

During our carbon steel knives research, we found 49 carbon steel knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 242,319 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carbon steel knives list. We found that most customers choose carbon steel knives with an average price of $36.16.

The carbon steel knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carbon steel knives, including OPINEL, Astercook, HOSHANHO, Brewin, Misono. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.