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19 Best Damascus Chef Knives (top picks for your kitchen)

Damascus Chef Knives are renowned for their razor-sharp blades and stunning custom patterns on the blades that make them stand out from the crowd. With so many Damascus Chef Knives to choose from, it can be hard to know which is best, so what are the best Damascus kitchen knives?

The Zelite Infinity is the best Damascus chef knife. It is made of 67-layer Japanese Damascus steel and has a razor-sharp edge. The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, and the handle is made from G10 material (a high-pressure fiberglass laminate), ensuring it won’t rot or fade like wood.

Damascus Chef Knives are the perfect companion for professional chefs and home cooks.

They are crafted from high-quality steel that is incredibly durable and sharp. They are usually made with wooden handles, which adds to the classic look of the knife and provides a comfortable grip.

But the Zelite is not the only option, and it’s not the cheapest option. So let’s review my top 19 picks for the best Damascus kitchen knives.

1. Cangshan Z Series 62731 High Carbon X-7 Damascus Steel – Under $130

The Cangshan Z Series 62731 High Carbon X-7 Damascus Steel is a great choice for any professional or home cook looking for a top-quality kitchen knife. This knife is made from high-quality Damascus steel, known for its durability and strength. The blade is heat-treated and hardened for increased strength and edge retention. The unique pattern of the Damascus steel is also aesthetically pleasing.

With its exceptional craftsmanship, the handle is ergonomically designed for easy and comfortable use. The full-tang construction ensures that the knife is balanced and durable.

Pros:

  • Incredibly durable and resistant to rust
  • Well-balanced 5.5″ handle and 8″ blade
  • Includes solid piece walnut Saya style magnetic sheath
  • Ultra6 stage heat treatment
  • NSF International Certified
  • Single decorative mosaic pin

Cons:

  • Tip breaks after a few use
  • Weak magnets holding the sheath on

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2. KAN Core Chef Knife 8-inch – Under $150

The KAN Core Damascus chef knife is an essential kitchen tool for any professional or home chef. This knife is crafted from high-quality Damascus steel and features 66 layers of Damascus stainless steel, giving it strength and corrosion resistance, as well as a beautiful, one-of-a-kind pattern. The handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip, and the blade is hand-polished for a clean, smooth finish.

With its razor-sharp edge and excellent balance, the KAN Core Chef Knife 8-inch is a perfect knife to help you prepare meals with ease and accuracy, making it a must-have kitchen tool.

Pros:

  • Beautiful, true Damascus pattern
  • Clad with 66 stainless layers
  • G10 glass-based epoxy resin laminate handle
  • Intuitive blade grip
  • Suitable for a variety of culinary tasks

Cons:

  • Frequent cases of cosmetic damages
  • Cases of breaks and chips off quickly

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3. Zelite Infinity Damascus Chef Knife – Under $110

The Zelite Infinity Chef Knife is the perfect addition to any kitchen. It is made of 67-layer Damascus steel, which is incredibly durable and long-lasting. The blade is also sharpened with a hand-polished 15-degree angle for maximum sharpness and performance.

The handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip and triple-riveted for extra strength and durability. The unique pattern of the Damascus steel gives it a timeless and elegant look.

Pros:

  • 12-degree Damascus steel blade edge
  • Lightweight design is easy to handle
  • Ergonomic handle with a comfortable, secure grip
  • Non-stick coating for easy cleaning and maintenance
  • High-quality construction
  • Single decorative mosaic pin

Cons:

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Requires frequent sharpening

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4. Dalstrong Damascus Chef Knife Shogun Series X – Under $100

The Dalstrong Damascus Chef Knife is a beautiful and versatile blade that is perfect for any kitchen. With its 67-layer, high-carbon, Japanese AUS-10V stainless steel construction, the Dalstrong Damascus Chef Knife is of the best quality. It is a good choice for various tasks, including slicing, chopping, and dicing.

Not only does the knife have excellent performance, but it also looks stunning with its hand-polished blade and mirror-polished spine. Its ergonomic G-10 handle provides a comfortable grip, and its complete tang design ensures durability and good balance.

Pros:

  • High-quality construction
  • Razor-sharp edge
  • Ergonomic handle with a comfortable firm grip
  • Easy to clean
  • Precision tempering
  • Exquisite hammered tsuchime finish

Cons:

  • Broken blade after repeated use
  • Does not hold a sharp edge for long

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


5. Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife – Under $110

The Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife is a quality product perfect for any home cook looking to upgrade their kitchen. This Damascus kitchen knife has a 7-inch blade length made of Japanese AUS10 super steel and is exceptionally sharp and capable of making precise cuts.

This Damascus steel knife blade also features a unique taper grind edge that is razor sharp and stays sharper for longer. The handle is ergonomically designed for comfort and control, and the complete tang construction provides perfect balance and strength.

Pros:

  • High-quality blade made from Japanese AUS-10 super steel
  • Razor-sharp edge 16-degree angle blade
  • Ergonomic, comfortable handle
  • Non-stick coating on the blade
  • Includes a lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Heavy weight may make it difficult to use for extended periods
  • Requires frequent sharpening

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


6. KYOKU 8-inch Chef Knife – Under $100

The KYOKU 8-inch Chef Knife is an excellent tool for anyone serious about cooking. It is made of Japanese AUS-10V super steel, with a hardness of HRC 58 -60, making it one of the most rigid knives on the market. The full-tang construction provides increased strength and control while cutting, while the hammered finish helps to reduce drag and sticking.

The ergonomic handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, making it easy to maneuver and control. The blade is razor-sharp and holds an edge for a long time, ensuring that it is a reliable kitchen companion for years to come.

Pros:

  • Versatile all-purpose knife
  • Japanese 67-layer Damascus VG-10 steel blade
  • Sturdy handle and case
  • Ergonomic design
  • 8-inch blade
  • Superior corrosion resistance

Cons:

  • Inability to hold edges for long
  • The handle can become slippery when wet, making it difficult to use

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7. Kiritsuke Chef’s Knife 8 Inch Damascus Japanese – Under $80

The Kiritsuke Chef’s Knife 8 Inch Damascus Japanese is a must-have for anyone serious about cooking. This beautiful knife is crafted with 66 layers of stainless steel, giving it an incredibly sharp edge and a beautiful Damascus finish. The knife features a traditional Japanese style, with a single beveled edge and a pointed tip.

The knife is perfect for various tasks, including slicing, dicing, and chopping, and can be used to create delicate julienne and chiffonade cuts. It also features an ergonomic handle, providing a comfortable, secure grip.

Pros:

  • Geometrically perfect and scary sharp edge
  • Military-grade ergonomic G-10 knife handle
  • 66 layers of high-carbon steel cladding
  • Optimal knuckle clearance
  • Rounded handle and tapered pinch-grip

Cons:

  • Not suitable for cutting through hard or frozen foods
  • Requires regular maintenance

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8. Aisyoko 8 Inch Damascus Chef Knife – Under $90

The Aisyoko 8 Inch Damascus Chef Knife is one of the best Damascus chef knives to consider for your kitchen. These are the best Damascus steel knives with 67-layered VG10 Japanese steel, making them incredibly sharp and durable. The ergonomic handle is designed to provide a comfortable grip while cutting through even the toughest of ingredients.

These traditional Japanese-style knives have a beautiful hand-hammered finish, adding a unique pattern and stylish touch to any kitchen. The knife is perfect for professional and home chefs, making it the perfect tool for any kitchen.

Pros:

  • Versatile all-purpose knife
  • Japanese 67-layer Damascus VG-10 steel blade
  • Sturdy handle and case
  • Ergonomic design
  • Includes a lifetime warranty
  • Superior corrosion resistance

Cons:

  • The blade can be difficult to sharpen
  • Not dishwasher-safe

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.

Chefs have a special affinity for particular chef’s knives, although several types of blades are available for various culinary duties.

Check out my most recent article if you’re curious about why these knives are so well-liked.

Here, I discussed the functions of kitchen knives, their unique qualities, and whether or not you can wash them in the dishwasher.


9. XINZUO 5PC Kitchen Knife Set Damascus Steel – Under $210

The XINZUO 5PC Kitchen Knife Set Damascus Steel is a great choice for any home cook. The kitchen knife set is made from 67 layers of steel and is known for its superior strength and durability. The Japanese-style handle is designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip.

The set includes a chef’s knife, a slicing knife, a utility knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife. Each blade is sharpened to a 15-degree angle for precision cutting and slicing.

Pros:

  • 67 Layers High Carbon Damascus Steel
  • Ergonomic design handle for a firm grip
  • Razor-sharp edge
  • Comes with a hardwood block for convenient storage
  • Anti-corrosion steel

Cons:

  • Frequent cases of breakage after repeated use
  • Not dishwasher-safe

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


10. KUMA Professional Damascus Knife – Under $130

The KUMA Professional Damascus Knife is a high-quality kitchen knife with a beautiful design. It comprises 67 layers of Japanese Damascus steel and features a full tang construction. With a Pakka wood handle and an 18-degree angle hand-sharpened blade, this knife is designed to provide optimal slicing and chopping.

The knife is designed to be both ergonomic and balanced for a comfortable grip. The KUMA Professional Damascus Knife is perfect for any kitchen, providing a durable and stylish tool for daily cooking.

Pros:

  • 67-layer Damascus steel wrap
  • Tough, versatile and stain-resistant
  • Uniquely balanced G10 handle
  • Full-tang construction
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Easy to use and control

Cons:

  • The blade can be brittle and can chip if used incorrectly
  • Inability to hold an edge

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11. Nakiri Chef Knife 6.5 Inch Damascus Chef Knife – Under $70

This Nakiri chef knife is perfect for chopping and achieving thin slices of your favorite vegetables. With 67 layers of quality Japanese Damascus steel, the 6.5-inch blade of this knife is extremely strong and rust-resistant. The blade’s distinctive good shape gives it a razor-sharp edge that will hold its edge for a long time.

The handle is made of G-10 handle material, ergonomically designed to fit comfortably into your hand. Thanks to its lightweight construction and balanced design, this knife is easy to maneuver and won’t tire your hands.

Pros:

  • Japanese VG-10 Super-Steel cutting core
  • 66 layers of high-carbon cladding
  • Finished to a mirror polish
  • Rounded handle and tapered pinch-grip
  • Military-grade ergonomic G-10 handle
  • Optimal knuckle clearance

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come sharpened from the factory
  • Heavy design

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12. Daddy Chef 8-inch Damascus Blade – Under $110

The Daddy Chef 8-inch Damascus Blade Chef Knife is a high-quality knife that is perfect for any professional chef or a beginner in the kitchen. With its 8-inch blade, this knife is the best way to achieve perfect slicing, dicing, and chopping.

The ergonomic handle is designed for comfort and control, making it easy to use for long periods. The blade is also sharpened to a razor-like edge, allowing precise and accurate cuts.

Pros:

  • Multipurpose personalized Chef’s Knife
  • 67-layer High Carbon Stainless Steel
  • Ergonomic sandalwood handle
  • Great long kitchen knife
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Comfortable to hold

Cons:

  • The blade is not dishwasher safe and must be hand washed
  • Cases of chipping along the edges

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


13. KYOKU Kiritsuke Chef Knife 8.5 – Under $100

The KYOKU Kiritsuke Chef Knife 8.5 Inch is an exceptional knife for professional chefs and home cooks. Its 8.5-inch blade is made from high-end Japanese AUS-10V super steel, known for its durability and strength. This blade is designed for superior edge retention with vacuum heat treatment and liquid nitrogen-cooled.

The complete tang construction provides excellent balance and ergonomics, while the G-10 and linen micarta handle provide a comfortable, non-slip grip. Whether you’re slicing, dicing, mincing, or julienning, this knife will help you finish the job quickly and efficiently.

Pros:

  • Sharpened to an 8-to-12-degree edge
  • Japanese 67-layer Damascus VG-10 steel blade
  • Fiberglass handle
  • 58-60 HRC strength
  • Precise cutting capabilities
  • Ergonomic design

Cons:

  • Hammered finish on the blade can be difficult to maintain
  • Cases of handle coming lose after a few use

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


14. Sunnecko Chef Knife 8 Inch Sharp Kitchen Knife – Under $70

The Sunnecko 8 Inch is one of the best Damascus kitchen knives you can consider for your kitchen tasks. This knife is well balanced, with a razor-sharp 8-inch blade made of Japanese stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant. With a full tang for enhanced balance, the ergonomic handle is composed of G10 material and is easy to hold.

With proper care, this knife allows for precision slicing, dicing, and chopping, and its sharp blade ensures effortless cutting. The knife has a well-crafted sheath to protect the blade and ensure safe storage.

Pros:

  • Versatile kitchen utensils
  • Unique pattern blade
  • 67-layers Damascus steel
  • Well-balanced blades
  • Full-tang construction
  • Ergonomic handle design

Cons:

  • Too large and unwieldy for smaller hands
  • Slippery when wet

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


15. Kai Seki Magoroku Damascus Gyutou Chef Knife – Under $80

The Kai Seki Magoroku Damascus Gyutou Chef Knife is an incredibly sharp and durable kitchen tool. Its blade is made from a combination of layers of Damascus steel, giving it a beautiful, unique pattern, and it is hardened to a Rockwell Hardness. Its octagonal handle is sturdy and provides a comfortable, secure grip.

The Kai Seki Magoroku Damascus is a good knife and an excellent choice for the best results, from slicing and dicing to mincing and deboning. Its razor-sharp edge will stay sharper for longer and is easy to maintain with regular sharpening.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Comfortable, ergonomic handle
  • Razor-sharp blades
  • Easy to use and clean
  • Superior sharpness and edge retention

Cons:

  • The edge is a little tricky to keep sharp
  • Not suitable for cutting through hard materials

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


16. Imarku Damascus Chef Knife, 8-inch Kitchen Knife – Under $80

The Imarku Damascus Chef Knife is the right choice kitchen knife, perfect for home chefs and professionals. It is made from high-quality Japanese Damascus steel, known for its superior strength and durability. The blade is crafted with a unique “wave” pattern which is aesthetically pleasing and helps create a sharp edge.

The ergonomic handle is made from G10 material, providing a comfortable and secure grip. This great knife is incredibly sharp and precise and is perfect for slicing, dicing, and chopping.

Pros:

  • Ergonomic Pakka wood handle
  • High carbon stainless steel
  • Finger protection
  • Super low sharpening frequency
  • Mirrored hammered blade

Cons:

  • Bulky and heavy for daily use
  • Blade is relatively thin, making it more prone to chipping

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


17. PAUDIN Damascus Chef Knife – Under $130

The PAUDIN Damascus Chef Knife is a top-of-the-line kitchen tool that gives you the perfect cut every time. With a 13-inch overall length, this knife is crafted to last and is sure to be a favorite in your kitchen. Its ergonomic handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, and its complete tang construction ensures durable solid performance.

Pros:

  • Incredibly sharp and retains its edge well
  • Full-Tang G10 Handle
  • 67-layer VG10 Damascus high-carbon steel
  • Finely hand-sharpened blade
  • Ergonomic streamlined shape
  • Simple to maintain

Cons:

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Frequent cases of blades chipping

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18. KEENSUN 8 Inch Professional Kitchen Knife – Under $50

The KEENSUN 8 Inch Professional Kitchen Knife is one of the best Damascus knives, perfect for slicing, dicing, and chopping. The stainless-steel blade is razor-sharp and highly durable, making it ideal for any kitchen task. The ergonomic handle is pleasant to hold and helps to reduce fatigue.

The full-tang construction ensures these Damascus knives are well-balanced and durable, while the curved blade ensures a smooth, precise cut every time.

Pros:

  • Multi-function knife
  • Comfortable handle design
  • High-quality material
  • High degree of anti-skid and corrosion resistance
  • Blade maintenance is simple
  • VG10 powder steel

Cons:

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Relatively thin and prone to chipping

CLICK HERE to see the current price on Amazon.


19. Kitchen Emperor Santoku Knife – Under $60

The Kitchen Emperor Santoku Knife is a top-quality knife designed for precision and ease of use. Its 7-inch blade is made of Japanese stainless steel, giving it a sharp and durable edge that is perfect for slicing, dicing, and chopping. Its ergonomic handle is designed for comfort and control, and its full-tang construction ensures it is solid and balanced.

Pros:

  • Military grade, non-porous fiberglass handle
  • High Carbon content Steel with 67 Layers
  • Versatile utensil
  • Meticulously sharpened using the traditional 3-stage method
  • Beautiful patterned design
  • Perfect balance blade

Cons:

  • Loses effectiveness after a few use
  • Hand washing only

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Final Thoughts

Damascus Chef Knives are renowned for their sharpness, strength, and durability, making them an excellent long-term investment for every home. With the proper care and maintenance, these knives can last for years and provide top-notch results time and time again.

In this best Damascus chef knife review, l examined some of the best choices for the culinary enthusiast looking to upgrade their kitchen with quality knives. With this wide variety of styles and designs, there is something to suit every need, whether you are a professional chef or a home cook.


Todd’s awesome damascus steel knife by Tim Wayne is licensed under CC2.0 and was cropped, edited, and had a text overlay added.

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Jeff Campbell