Best Usuba & Nakiri Knives of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Usuba and Nakiri knives are traditional Japanese kitchen knives that are gaining popularity in Western kitchens. Usuba knives are single-beveled and designed specifically for cutting vegetables with precision and ease. Nakiri knives are double-beveled and also excel at vegetable cutting, but are more versatile and can handle meat and fish as well. Both knives have a straight blade that makes them ideal for push and pull cutting techniques. They are also lightweight and have a sharp edge that stays sharp for longer periods of time. Usuba and Nakiri knives are perfect for any home cook looking to elevate their vegetable cutting skills.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife Cover #TOP 1
HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
KYOKU Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife 7" Cover #TOP 2
KYOKU Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife 7"
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5" Cover #TOP 3
Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5"
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Usuba & Nakiri Knives

#TOP 1

HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife

7 inch Nakiri Knife
Silver
HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife Cover
HOSHANHO 7 Inch Nakiri Knife, Japanese AUS-10 High Carbon Stainless Steel Chef Knife, Multipurpose Meat Vegetable Sharp Kitchen Knife with Ergonomic Pakkawood Handle

The HOSHANHO Nakiri Knife features an ultra-sharp blade that has been expertly hand-polished to a precise 15-degree angle. This design allows you to make effortless cuts, whether you are chopping vegetables or slicing meat. Crafted from high-quality Japanese AUS-10 high carbon stainless steel, the knife maintains its sharpness and durability even after extensive use. Its ergonomic pakkawood handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, reducing fatigue during long cooking sessions. Additionally, the knife’s exquisite design, complete with a unique scallop-shaped hollow pit, not only enhances its appearance but also prevents food from sticking, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Super sharp blade
Comfortable grip
Well balanced weight
Easy to clean
Great price
What We Don't Like
Somewhat heavy
Larger handle size
#TOP 2

KYOKU Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife 7"

8541905335
Black
KYOKU Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife 7" Cover
KYOKU Samurai Series - Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife 7" - Full Tang - Japanese High Carbon Steel Kitchen Knives - Pakkawood Handle with Mosaic Pin - with Sheath & Case

The KYOKU Samurai Series Nakiri knife is a Japanese-style vegetable knife with a 7-inch blade that boasts unrivaled performance and incredible edge retention thanks to its ultra-sharp and cryogenically treated steel cutting core. The Pakkawood handle is triple-riveted and treated to be impervious to heat, cold, and moisture. The blade is handcrafted by seasoned artisans to a mirror polish and is incredibly hard, flexible, and corrosion-resistant. The narrow and slightly curved blade is ergonomically designed to alleviate fatigue and finger pains, perfectly blending performance and comfort. Comes with a sheath & case.

What We Like
Exceptional edge retention
Beautifully crafted design
Great value for price
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Versatile for multiple uses
What We Don't Like
Requires occasional edge touchup
Edge retention varies with use
#TOP 3

Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5"

DM0728
Black
6.5"
Shun Cutlery Classic Nakiri Knife 6.5" Cover
Shun Classic 6.5" Nakiri Knife, Handcrafted Japanese Vegetable Knife, VG-MAX Core with Damascus Stainless Steel Cladding, Pakkawood Handle, Slicing Tool for Professional and Home Chefs

The Shun Classic 6.5-inch Nakiri Knife is a high-quality, traditional Japanese-style vegetable knife perfect for preparing fruits and vegetables with its straight blade and sharp edge. Its handle is D-shaped, durable, and comfortable to use for both left- and right-handed users. This cooking knife is made with Shun's proprietary VG-MAX cutting core and clad in 68 layers of stainless Damascus, making it corrosion and stain-resistant. Handcrafted by highly skilled artisans, this knife boasts unparalleled quality and beauty.

What We Like
Exceptional sharpness
Beautiful design
Great balance and weight
Effortless cutting
Durable with proper care
What We Don't Like
Chipping reported
Presentation box damaged
#TOP 4

Mercer Culinary Genesis Nakiri Vegetable Knife

M20907
Black
Mercer Culinary Genesis Nakiri Vegetable Knife Cover
Mercer Culinary M20907 Genesis 7-Inch Nakiri Vegetable Knife,Black

The Mercer Culinary Genesis Nakiri Vegetable Knife is a precision-forged knife with high-carbon German steel that ensures better durability and long-lasting sharpness. The ergonomic handle provides a non-slip grip, even with wet hands, and the sharp tines are ideal for piercing food. This knife is perfect for professional use or for home cooking enthusiasts who love to experiment in the kitchen. Careful hand washing is recommended to maximize the performance and longevity of the knife.

What We Like
Excellent sharpness
Comfortable grip
Good weight distribution
Versatile for chopping vegetables
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Heavy, but manageable
Spine not polished
#TOP 5

KYOKU 7" Nakiri Knife

KOI70NK23
Brown
KYOKU 7" Nakiri Knife Cover
KYOKU 7" Nakiri Knife with Non-Stick Koi Scale Pattern, Japanese VG10 Stainless Steel Vegetable Cleaver Knife with Sheath & Gift Box, Shogun Koi Series Full Tang Chef Knife with Camphorwood Handle

The KYOKU Nakiri Knife is an essential tool for your kitchen. Its 7-inch blade is perfect for effortlessly chopping, dicing, and mincing a variety of ingredients, ensuring they maintain their freshness and flavor. The knife features a stunning koi scale pattern that not only enhances its beauty but also helps prevent food from sticking during use. Crafted from Japanese VG-10 stainless steel, it boasts exceptional sharpness and durability, making it ideal for all cooking tasks. The full-tang camphorwood handle provides a comfortable grip, allowing you to work with ease and precision.

What We Like
Beautiful design and presentation
Sharp and holds an edge well
Comfortable and balanced grip
High-quality leather sheath
Versatile for various cutting tasks
What We Don't Like
Blade appears cheap up close
Minor rust stains upon arrival
#TOP 6

Yoshihiro VG-10 Damascus Nakiri Knife

NSUS160SH
Rosewood Handle
6.5"
Yoshihiro VG-10 Damascus Nakiri Knife Cover
Yoshihiro VG10 46 Layers Hammered Damascus Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife (6.5'' (165mm) Rosewood Handle)

The Yoshihiro Nakiri Knife is crafted with vg-10 Stainless Steel in 46 layers, boasting a sharp double-edged blade ideal for precise vegetable cutting. The Damascus grade ensures durability and stain resistance, making it a long-lasting kitchen companion. Its flat cutting edge allows full contact with the cutting board, ensuring perfect chops every time. The Octagonal handle provides a comfortable grip, while the included Saya cover protects the blade when not in use.

What We Like
Incredibly sharp blades
Lightweight and well-balanced
Beautiful craftsmanship
Comfortable handle
Effective for vegetable slicing
What We Don't Like
Requires careful maintenance
Not ideal for chopping hard vegetables
#TOP 7

KnifeSaga Nakiri Chef Knife

E7 Pro-Nakiri Knife
Black Red
KnifeSaga Nakiri Chef Knife Cover
KnifeSaga 2023 Upgraded Nakiri Chef Knife Japanese Professional 7 Inch Sharp Meat Cleaver Kitchen Knives for Chopping Vegetable and Cooking, High Carbon Stainless Steel Asian Chopping Chefs Knife

The KnifeSaga Nakiri Knife is designed to elevate your cooking experience. Its ultra-sharp 10° edge makes slicing through vegetables a breeze, allowing you to prepare meals with precision. You’ll appreciate the long-lasting sharpness, which means less time spent sharpening and more time enjoying your culinary creations. The ergonomically designed handle ensures a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle during long cooking sessions. Plus, the unique Granton blade design minimizes food sticking, providing a smooth cutting experience. Overall, this knife is a reliable tool that enhances efficiency in the kitchen.

What We Like
Excellent sharpness
Comfortable handle
Solid construction
Great value for price
Efficient cutting
What We Don't Like
Very sharp blade
Not kid-friendly
#TOP 8

PAUDIN Nakiri Knife 7 inch High Carbon Stainless Steel

N6-Chinese Cleaver
Silver
7 inch Nakiri Knife
PAUDIN Nakiri Knife 7 inch High Carbon Stainless Steel Cover
PAUDIN Nakiri Knife - 7" Razor Sharp Meat Cleaver and Vegetable Kitchen Knife, High Carbon Stainless Steel, Multipurpose Asian Chef Knife for Home and Kitchen with Ergonomic Handle

The PAUDIN Nakiri Knife is a versatile 7 inch kitchen knife that can handle a variety of tasks such as slicing, dicing, chopping, and mincing. Its ultra-sharp edge is made of rust-proof and durable 5Cr15Mov stainless steel with a 56+ hardness. The ergonomic handle is made of soft pakkawood, which provides a comfortable grip and is balanced with the blade. The waved pattern not only looks beautiful but also decreases food friction, making it easy to clean and maintain. This knife makes an elegant gift for various occasions and comes with a lifetime warranty.

What We Like
Ultra-sharp stainless steel blade
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Versatile for vegetables and meat
Beautiful design with wave pattern
Includes blade cover for safety
What We Don't Like
Not razor sharp upon arrival
Handle may be slippery when greasy
#TOP 9

Kai KAI AE5206 Nakiri Knife

KAI
AE5206
Silver
7.5"
Kai KAI AE5206 Nakiri Knife Cover
Kai KAI AE5206 Nakiri Knife Seki Magoroku Damascus, 6.5 inches (165 mm), Nakiri, Made in Japan

The Kai Nakiri Knife is designed for both professionals and home cooks who appreciate quality. Its stunning Damascus blade not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures exceptional sharpness for precision cutting. The unique inverted triangle handle fits comfortably in your hand, providing a secure grip for better control while chopping vegetables. This knife combines beauty with practicality, allowing you to enjoy the art of cooking while achieving excellent results. With its lightweight design, you can maneuver it effortlessly, making meal prep a breeze.

What We Like
Exceptional sharpness
Great value for money
Comfortable grip
Attractive design
Easy to maintain
What We Don't Like
Long delivery time
Blade maintenance required
#TOP 10

Cangshan HAKU 5-Inch Nakiri Knife

503893
Brown
Cangshan HAKU 5-Inch Nakiri Knife Cover
Cangshan HAKU Series 5-Inch Nakiri Knife with Sheath, X-7 Damascus Steel

The Cangshan HAKU Nakiri Knife features a 5-inch full-tang blade designed for stability and ease of use. Its taper-ground edge allows you to hone it effortlessly, ensuring it stays sharp over time. Made from 67 layers of X-7 Damascus Steel, this knife not only looks stunning but also offers excellent durability. The ULTRA6 heat treatment enhances its strength, making it reliable for all your chopping and cutting tasks. With a hand-sharpened edge at a precise 16-degree angle, you’ll find that it cuts through ingredients with remarkable precision and efficiency.

What We Like
Gorgeous damascus pattern
Incredibly sharp edge
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Well-balanced and full-tang design
Includes protective sheath
What We Don't Like
Minor fit and finish issue
Handle may feel small
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is usuba knife used for?

Usuba literally means "thin blade" indicating its relative thinness compared to other knives, required for cutting through firm vegetables without cracking them. Due to its height and straight edge, usuba are also used for specialized cuts such as katsuramuki, shaving a vegetable cylinder into a thin sheet.

2. What is a nakiri knife good for?

The ideal vegetable knife, a Nakiri knife is a classic Japanese style knife with a straight, symmetrical flat edge blade shape that is most commonly used for slicing, dicing, mincing, and chopping vegetables. Its main feature is its straight blade, which encourages a specific style of cutting.

3. Are nakiri knives worth?

Nakiri knives are the best tool for the job for several reasons, and the Japanese have known this for a long time. But, the secret's out! ... It's perfect for cutting long veggies in a single chop, but also great for a push or pull cut into squash and even some harder vegetables other knives are good at.

4. Are nakiri knives good?

A nakiri can be more gentle on the user than other knives, as well. Not only will you easily avoid rapping your knuckles on the cutting board using a nakiri knife to chop veggies, but you will also find yourself slicing and dicing like a pro because these knives are so easy to use.

Editor's Notes

During our usuba & nakiri knives research, we found 24 usuba & nakiri knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 42,968 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usuba & nakiri knives list. We found that most customers choose usuba & nakiri knives with an average price of $72.70.

The usuba & nakiri knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usuba & nakiri knives, including HOSHANHO, KYOKU, Shun, Mercer Culinary, Yoshihiro. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 559 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.

Usuba & Nakiri Knives Comparison Table

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Brand HOSHANHO KYOKU Shun Mercer Culinary KYOKU Yoshihiro KnifeSaga PAUDIN KAI Cangshan
Blade Material High Carbon Stainless Steel Alloy Steel VG-MAX Core, Damascus Steel Cladding High Carbon Steel Japanese VG10 Steel with Scale Pattern Blade Stainless Steel Innovative Japanese NextGen Stainless Steel High Carbon Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Composite Alloy Steel
Color Silver Black Black Black Brown Rosewood Handle Black Red Silver Silver Brown
Handle Material Pakkawood Steel Pakkawood Santoprene Camphorwood Handle Rosewood Wood Pakkawood Wood African Blackwood
Blade Edge Plain Hollow Plain Plain Plain Double-Edged Ultra Sharp Plain Plain Hollow
Blade Length 7 Inches 1 Picometer 6.5 Inches 7 Inches 7 Inches 6.5 Inches 7 Inches 7 Inches 19 Centimeters 5 Inches
Construction Type Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Forged Steel Forged
Blade Color Silver 1 Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver Silver
Is Dishwasher Safe
Item Length 7 Inches 7 Inches 13 Inches 7 Inches 7 Inches 12.25 Inches 12 Inches 7 Inches 11.6 Inches 13.86 Inches
Size 7" 7" 6.5" 7" 7" 6.5" 7" 7 inch Nakiri Knife 7.5" 5"
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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