Tip Choose Best Sushi Knife for Beginners for Beginner and Buying Guides

Sushi is a Japanese dish that is made with vinegared rice and typically includes raw fish, seafood, and vegetables. Sushi knives are designed to create thin, even slices of sushi ingredients so that they can be rolled or formed into bite-sized pieces.

There are many different types of sushi knives available on the market, but the best sushi knife for your needs will depend on the type of sushi you make most often. If you frequently make maki rolls, for example, you will need a knife with a long, sharp blade that can easily slice through fish and vegetables. If you make nigiri sushi more often, you will need a shorter knife with a slightly different blade shape so that you can create uniform balls of rice.

No matter what type of sushi you make, it is important to choose a knife that is comfortable for you to use and that is made with high-quality materials. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of sushi knives available and help you choose the best one for your needs.

Sushi Knife Types

There are three main types of sushi knives: usuba, yanagiba, and deba. Each type of knife has a different blade shape and is used for different types of sushi preparation.

Usuba Knives

Usuba knives have rectangular blades that are designed for cutting vegetables. The wide surface area of the blade makes it easy to create thin, even slices of vegetables, which is important for making sushi rolls and other types of vegetable-based sushi.

Yanagiba Knives

Yanagiba knives have long, slender blades that are designed for cutting fish. The long blade makes it easy to slice through thick cuts of fish, and the narrow width of the blade helps to create thin, even slices. Yanagiba knives are also sometimes called “sashimi knives” because they are often used to prepare raw fish for sashimi (a type of sushi made with thinly sliced raw fish).

Deba Knives

Deba knives have shorter, thicker blades that are designed for chopping and filleting fish. The short blade makes it easy to control the knife when you are working with smaller cuts of fish, and the thick blade helps to prevent the knife from bending when you are cutting through bone. Deba knives can also be used to prepare vegetables, but they are not as well-suited for this task as usuba knives.

Choosing The Best Sushi Knife

When choosing a sushi knife, it is important to consider the type of sushi you make most often. If you make maki rolls or other types of sushi that require thin, even slices of vegetables, and usuba knife is a good choice. If you make nigiri sushi or sashimi more often, a yanagiba knife is a better option. And if you frequently fillet and chop fish, a deba knife is the best choice.

It is also important to consider the material of the blade. High-quality sushi knives are typically made with stainless steel or carbon steel blades. Stainless steel blades are less likely to rust and are easier to care for, but they are not as sharp as carbon steel blades. Carbon steel blades are more difficult to care for because they can rust if they are not properly dried after use, but they are significantly sharper than stainless steel blades.

Finally, you should choose a knife that is comfortable for you to hold and use. The handle should fit comfortably in your hand, and the blade should be the right size and shape for the type of sushi you make most often. If you are unsure which knife is right for you, we recommend trying out a few different options at your local kitchen store before making a purchase.

Now that you know more about the different types of sushi knives available and how to choose the best one for your needs, check out our top picks below.

Why Is It Important to Select A Good Quality Sushi Knife?

Sushi knives are one of the most important tools in a sushi chef’s arsenal. A good quality sushi knife can make the difference between a delicious meal and a disaster. Here are three benefits of having a good sushi knife:

1. They help you create uniform slices.

If you’ve ever tried to slice fish or vegetables with a dull knife, you know how frustrating it can be to get uneven pieces. A sharp sushi knife will help you create uniform slices, so your sushi looks as good as it tastes.

2. They improve the taste of your sushi.

When you use a sharp knife, you minimize the amount of tissue damage done to the fish or vegetable. This helps preserve the flavor and texture of your ingredients, so your sushi tastes fresher and more delicious.

3. They’re safer to use.

A dull knife is more likely to slip and cause cuts or other accidents. A sharp knife is easier to control, so you’re less likely to hurt yourself while you’re slicing and dicing.

What Are the Benefits of a Good Sushi Knife?

Now that you know the benefits of having a good sushi knife, it’s time to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a sushi knife:

1. The type of sushi you make most often.

Are you a maki roll master or a nigiri aficionado? The type of sushi you make most often will dictate the type of knife you need.

2. The material of the blade.

Sushi knives are typically made from stainless steel or carbon steel. Stainless steel blades are less likely to rust and are easier to care for, but they’re not as sharp as carbon steel blades. Carbon steel blades are more difficult to care for because they can rust if they’re not properly dried after use, but they’re significantly sharper than stainless steel blades.

3. The size and shape of the blade.

Sushi knives come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose one that’s comfortable for you to hold and use. The blade should also be the right size and shape for the type of sushi you make most often.

4. Your budget.

Sushi knives range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. It’s important to find a knife that fits your needs and your budget.

Now that you know what to look for in a sushi knife, check out our top picks below.

What Happens if you Choose a Bad Sushi Knife?

If you choose a bad sushi knife, you may experience some of the following problems:

1. Your sushi will look terrible.

A dull knife or a knife with the wrong blade shape can ruin the appearance of your sushi. Sloppy, uneven slices will make your sushi look unappetizing, no matter how delicious it may taste.

2. The taste of your sushi will suffer.

When you use a dull knife, you damage more of the tissue in the fish or vegetable, which can affect the flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients are key to making delicious sushi, so using a sharp knife is essential.

3. You could hurt yourself.

A dull knife is more likely to slip while you’re using it, which could result in cuts or other accidents. A sharp knife is easier to control, so you’re less likely to injure yourself.

4. Your knife will be more difficult to care for.

A carbon steel knife needs to be properly cared for to prevent rusting. If you don’t maintain your knife properly, it will be more difficult to use and may not last as long as a stainless steel knife.

Now that you know the potential problems associated with choosing a bad sushi knife, take the time to find a good quality knife that meets your needs. Check out our top picks below.

Top 5 Best Sushi Knife You Need to Know

#1 DALSTRONG Yanagiba Sushi Knife – 10.5″

Dalstrong is a knife manufacturer that specializes in high-quality, durable knives. The company’s products are designed for both home and professional use. Dalstrong offers a wide range of knives, including sushi knives, chef’s knives, Santoku knives, and more.

• https://www.amazon.com/DALSTRONG-Yanagiba-Sushi-Knife-7CR17MOV-X/dp/B08Z9NTH5Y

DALSTRONG Yanagiba Sushi Knife – 10.5″: Ruthlessly sharp, the Shadow Black Series edge is painstakingly honed by expert craftsmen to 16-18°– ensuring clean and precise cuts with excellent retention. Carefully tapered for balance between resilience and performance in use, this blade provides you maximum control without sacrificing either of those things too much – it’s a knife that can adapt remarkably well even when put under intense pressure from various angles! The intense heat treatment followed quickly by a deep freeze nitrogen cooling process enhances hardness while also making its composition flexible enough so as not to be brittle or easily broken; these enhancements give rise to an extremely tough cutting implement capable against all odds.

Features

• Blade Material: Featuring high-carbon 7CR17MOV-X super-steel
• Handle Material:  A midnight black ergonomic, fiber-resin, and military-grade G10 handle.
• How to make it: Crafted from a single piece of steel, each hand polished blade is full-tang for maximum durability. Nitrogen cooled for enhanced hardness and flexibility. Each Shadow Black Series blade receives a Titanium Nitride non-reflective coating, improving robustness, corrosion resistance, and enhancing non-stick properties.
• Rockwell Hardness: 58+ HRC
• Edge Angle: 15° per side
• Tang: Full Tang

PROS

• Beautiful design
• The knife is very sharp and can cut through many things.
• It is made with a strong material that will last a long time.

CONS

•  A customer felt the sheath is poorly designed.

#2 DALSTRONG Yanagiba Knife – 9.5 inch – Phantom Series

The Dalstrong Phantom Series 9.5″ Yanagiba knife is a beautiful and deadly sushi knife. The blade is made of high-carbon Japanese steel, which has been heat-treated and cooled to create a tough, durable blade. The blade is also coated with a black titanium nitride finish to increase corrosion resistance and non-stick properties. The handle is made of ergonomic black Spanish pakkawood, which is comfortable to hold and provides a good grip.

– https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072QY1NBH

Features

• Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
• Handle Material:  A velvety rich black Spanish pakkawood handle
• How to make it:  Precision-forged from a single piece of ice tempered, high-carbon, Japanese AUS-8 steel at 58+ Rockwell hardness.
• Rockwell Hardness: 58+
• Edge Angle: 13-15°degree angle per side
• Tang: Full Tang

PROS

• Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip.
• Sleek blade with a sharp point.

CONS

• Some customers feel that The handle is a little long

#3 Mercer Culinary Asian Collection Yanagi Sashimi Knife (Most Precise)

Mercer Culinary is a company that has been making quality knives since 1985. The company is based in the USA and offers a wide range of knives, including sushi knives, chef’s knives, Santoku knives, and more. — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005T623UU

Features

• The Blade Material is High Carbon Steel, stain-resistant German steel that resists rust
• The Handle Material is Santoprene, a traditional wood
• The Brand is Mercer Culinary
• The Color NSF Handle

PROS

• Cheap
• It’s made of carbon steel.
• The blade is handcrafted in Japan.
• The handle features a traditional Japanese design.

CONS

• Suitable for beginners

#4 Yoshihiro Hayate Inox Aus-8

The Yoshihiro Hayate Inox is a great budget-friendly sushi knife. The blade is made of Aus-8 stainless steel, which is high-quality steel that is resistant to rust and corrosion. The blade is also coated with a black titanium nitride finish to increase corrosion resistance and non-stick properties.

— https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IKV5GCI

Knife Features

• The Blade Material is INOX Aus-8 Stainless Steel
• Handle Material is Stainless Steel
• The Edge Angle is Single Edged
• The Grade is INOX
• Handle Shape is Western Integrated
• Rockwell Hardness is 60 HRC
• Knife Style: Yagi Sashimi Knife
• Stain Resistant: Yes

PROS

• Durable and long-lasting.
• Sharpens quickly and easily.
• Exceptionally sharp blade.

CONS

• Not recommended for beginners.

#5 Sashimi Sushi Knife Japanese 11.5 inch Yanagiba Knife

The Sashimi Sushi Knife Japanese 11,5 inch Yanagiba Knife from KEEMAKE is a great sushi knife for those on a budget.  — https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Yanagiba-Stainless-Rosewood-Filleting/dp/B0919HTGN2

The blade is made of high-carbon stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion.

The blade is also coated with a black titanium nitride finish to increase corrosion resistance and non-stick properties.

Extremely Sharp Blade: Keemake experienced craftsman’s hand-sharpened the edge by 12-15 degrees to ensure the blade’s sharpness of 80-100.

The handle is made of ergonomic Natural Wood Handle, which is comfortable to hold and provides a good grip.

Features

• Blade Material: Crafted from premium Japanese High Carbon Stainless steel VG-10
• Handle Material: Natural Wood Handle
• Rockwell Hardness: 58+
• Edge Angle: 12-15 degrees
• Tang: Full Tang

CONS

• A knife that will last and looks good.
• Affordable for beginners.
• Great value for professionals.

PROS

• Best suited for beginners.

FAQs about Best Sushi Knife

Q: What is the best sushi knife for beginners?

A: The Sashimi Sushi Knife Japanese 11.5 inch Yanagiba Knife from KEEMAKE is a great sushi knife for those on a budget.

The blade is made of high-carbon stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion.

The blade is also coated with a black titanium nitride finish to increase corrosion resistance and non-stick properties.

Q: What is the best sushi knife for professionals?

A: The Mercer Culinary Asian Collection Yanagi Sashimi Knife is a great choice for professionals. The blade is made of high-carbon steel, which is durable and long-lasting.

The blade is also handcrafted in Japan, which makes it a great choice for those who want a traditional Japanese sushi knife.

Q: What is the best sushi knife for those on a budget?

A: The Sashimi Sushi Knife Japanese 11.5 inch Yanagiba Knife from KEEMAKE is a great sushi knife for those on a budget.

Q: What knife do sushi chefs use?

A: Many sushi chefs use a yanagiba knife, which is a traditional Japanese sushi knife.

The yanagiba knife has a long, thin blade that is ideal for slicing fish and other sushi ingredients.

Q: What is the difference between a yanagiba knife and a sashimi knife?

A: A yanagiba knife is a traditional Japanese sushi knife that has a long, thin blade.

A sashimi knife is a Japanese knife that is specifically designed for cutting fish.

Q: What is the best way to sharpen a sushi knife?

A: The best way to sharpen a sushi knife is with a sharpening stone.

Sharpening stones are specifically designed to sharpen sushi knives and other Japanese knives.

Q: Can I use any knife for sushi?

A: No, you should not use any knife for sushi.

Only use a sushi knife to cut fish and other sushi ingredients.

Q: How much does a good sushi knife cost?

A: A good sushi knife will cost between $50 and $100.

Some sushi knives may cost more than $100, but these are typically for professional use or for collectors.

Q: What is the best sushi knife brand?

A: There are many great sushi knife brands, but some of the most popular include Mercer Culinary, Global, and Shun.

These brands offer a variety of sushi knives to suit any need or budget.

Q: What is the name of the sushi knife?

A: A sushi knife is typically called a yanagiba knife.

Yanagiba means “willow blade” in Japanese, which is why this type of knife is often referred to as a willow blade knife.

Q: Why are sushi knives so expensive?

A: Sushi knives are typically expensive because they are made of high-quality materials and are designed for specific purposes.

Sushi knives are also often handmade, which makes them more expensive than mass-produced knives.

Q: Do I need a special knife for sushi?

A: Yes, you will need a special knife for sushi.

Sushi knives are designed specifically for cutting fish and other sushi ingredients.

Q: Can I use a regular kitchen knife for sushi?

A: No, you should not use a regular kitchen knife for sushi.

Regular kitchen knives are not designed for cutting fish and other sushi ingredients.

Q: What knife is best for sashimi?

A: The best knife for sashimi is a yanagiba knife.

Yanagiba knives are traditional Japanese sushi knives that have long, thin blades.

Q: What Santoku knife is used for?

A: A Santoku knife is a Japanese all-purpose kitchen knife.

Santoku knives are typically used for chopping and slicing vegetables.

Q: What is the best sushi knife set?

A: The best sushi knife set is the Mercer Culinary Asian Collection Yanagi Sashimi Knife Set.

This set includes a yanagiba knife, a usuba knife, and a deba knife.

The knives are made of high-quality German stainless steel and have razor-sharp edges.

Q: What is the best way to store a sushi knife?

A: The best way to store a sushi knife is in a knife block or sheath.

This will protect the knife’s edge and prevent it from rusting.

When stored properly, a sushi knife can last for many years.

Q: What is a Yanagiba knife used for?

A: A Yanagiba knife is a traditional Japanese sushi knife that has a long, thin blade.

Yanagiba knives are typically used for slicing fish and other sushi ingredients.

Q: What is the world’s most expensive knife?

A: The most expensive knife in the world is the Masamune Katana.

This sword costs over $4 million.

Q: Are Japanese chef’s knives worth it?

A: Yes, Japanese chef’s knives are worth it.

They are made of high-quality materials and are designed for specific purposes.

Japanese chef’s knives are also often handmade, which makes them more expensive than mass-produced knives.

Read more: How To Sharpen A Fillet Knife: 5 Way

Bottom line

No matter what type of sushi you make, it is important to choose a knife that is comfortable for you and made with high-quality materials. The three main types of sushi knives are usuba, yanagiba, and deba, each with a different blade shape designed for different types of sushi preparation. When choosing the best sushi knife for your needs, consider the type of sushi you make most often as well as the material of the blade. Stainless steel blades are less likely to rust but not as sharp as carbon steel blades, while carbon steel blades are more difficult to care for but significantly sharper. Choose a knife with a comfortable handle and the right size and shape blade for the type of sushi you typically make. With so many options on the market, we recommend trying out a few different types of sushi knives before making your final decision.