Best Carving Knives for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best carving knives for any kitchen need
Published: June 4th, 2024
Last Updated: September 10th, 2024

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best carving knives for 2024. Whether you're preparing a festive dinner or perfecting your everyday kitchen skills, a quality carving knife is indispensable. Through meticulous research, we've identified knives that excel in sharpness, grip comfort, and durability. Our selections include the best overall knife, a close runner-up, an excellent budget option, and specialized picks for various kitchen tasks. Read on to find the ideal carving knife for your needs.

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Overall Best: Victorinox Fibrox Pro 12-Inch Slicing Knife with Granton Blade

Victorinox Swiss Army - 47645 Cutlery Fibrox Pro Slicing Knife, Granton Blade, Black, 12-Inch

Our top choice for the best overall carving knife is the Victorinox Fibrox Pro 12-Inch Slicing Knife with Granton Blade. Revered by professional pitmasters, this knife excels in delivering clean, precise cuts. Crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, the blade maintains its sharpness exceptionally well. The ergonomic thermoplastic rubber handle offers a comfortable grip, even during extended use. Whether you're slicing brisket or filleting fish, this knife performs beautifully across a variety of tasks. While some might find the 12-inch blade a bit long to master initially, its cutting prowess makes it a standout choice for any kitchen.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

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Runner-up: Shun Classic 9-Inch Hollow-Ground Knife

Shun Cutlery Classic Hollow Ground Slicing Knife 9", Long, Thin Blade, Allows for Cleaner Cuts to Preserve Juices and Flavor, Ideal Meat Cutting Knife

The Shun Classic 9-Inch Hollow-Ground Knife earns our runner-up spot thanks to its exceptional sharpness and sleek design. Made from high-carbon stainless steel, this Japanese knife is ideal for a range of proteins, ensuring smooth and clean cuts every time. Its pakkawood handle is not only elegant but also comfortable for prolonged use and resistant to moisture. The hollow-ground blade reduces friction, which helps prevent food from sticking—perfect for delicate items like smoked salmon. Though it comes with a higher price tag, its durability and top-tier performance make it a worthy investment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$143.95 at Amazon

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Best Budget Option: Mercer Culinary 10-Inch Carving Knife

Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance, 10-Inch Carving Knife 10" Carving Knife

If you're looking for an affordable yet reliable carving knife, the Mercer Culinary 10-Inch Carving Knife is our top budget pick. Despite its lower price, it boasts the same durable German steel found in higher-end models. The textured plastic handle provides a secure grip, even when dealing with greasy foods. The 10-inch blade length is versatile and well-suited for a variety of carving tasks. While it may require a bit of sharpening to reach its peak performance, this knife offers outstanding value for those on a budget.

Lowest at Amazon
$50.78 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$46.59 at Zoro

More Answers

Still curious about the Mercer Culinary Renaissance 10" Carving Knife? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-inch carving knife compare to more expensive brands?
When you're looking at the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-inch Carving Knife compared to fancier brands, there's a lot to like about it, especially given the price difference. Our research shows that this knife is impressively sharp and well-balanced, which is something many people appreciate. It's great for precise slicing and carving, and quite a few folks think it holds its own against more expensive knives in terms of cutting performance. The handle is made from Santoprene, giving you a comfortable, slip-resistant grip. This is a big plus for control and safety, on par with some of the top-tier knives out there. It definitely feels like a well-thought-out design. While it's noted as dishwasher safe in some professional reviews, the manufacturer's details don’t guarantee this. We’d suggest sticking to hand washing with warm water and mild soap, then drying it with a soft towel. This will help keep the blade sharp and the knife in good shape longer since dishwashers can be rough on blades. Looks-wise, it has a classic vibe—triple-riveted handle and full tang—that's similar to pricier knives. If you're into that sort of style, it's definitely a bonus. All in all, the Mercer Culinary M23580 is a real contender. It's durable, sharp, and feels good in your hand, even if it doesn't cost as much as some luxury brands. If you take good care of it, this knife could be a reliable partner in your kitchen, whether you’re just getting into cooking or you’ve been at it for years.
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Is the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-inch carving knife well-balanced?
The Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-Inch Carving Knife seems to strike a balance that many folks appreciate. It's made with high-carbon German cutlery steel, which helps keep the blade sharp and durable. So, you can expect it to stay in good shape even with regular use, which is definitely a win for anyone who's serious about cooking. The handle is worth a mention too. It's crafted from Delrin and Santoprene, making it ergonomic and comfortable to hold. According to the manufacturer's product description, this setup is especially great for precise carving. Whether you're slicing roast beef or tackling large fruits and veggies, the handle design aims for a secure grip. As for balance, our research points to positive feedback from most people who have tried it. The knife's weight gives it good control, which is often a plus for cutting tasks. Just a heads-up, though—it might feel a bit heavy if you're using it for a long time, so keep that in mind if you're planning a big cooking day. Also, don't forget to hand wash this knife. The manufacturer advises against putting it in the dishwasher. Instead, wash it with warm water and mild soap, rinse well, and dry it with a soft towel to maintain its quality over time. Overall, with some care, the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance Carving Knife not only promises reliability but also earns points for being well-balanced. Its thoughtful design could make it a solid addition to your kitchen gear.
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How sharp is the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-inch carving knife?
The Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance 10-Inch Carving Knife is known for being really sharp, which is one of its standout features according to our research. It's made from high-carbon German cutlery steel. This means the blade stays sharp for a long time, so you won't have to sharpen it as often as some other knives. To keep it sharp, it's best to hand wash the knife with warm water and mild soap and dry it with a soft towel. The manufacturer suggests this even though technically, it can go in the dishwasher. Dishwashers can sometimes dull the blade because of the harsh environment and detergents. What really makes this knife special is how it combines sharpness with easy handling. It's got an ergonomic handle made from Delrin and Santoprene, which makes it comfortable and durable. So, you can use it for a long time without discomfort. Our research shows that many who use this knife really like its performance. Some say it matches up to pricier knives when it comes to sharpness and balance. The weight of the knife helps with control but could feel a bit heavy for some during long cutting sessions. Though, that same weight helps with precise slicing, giving a confident cutting experience. All in all, if you're looking for a reliable carving knife that stays sharp and works well, the Mercer Culinary M23580 Renaissance seems to be a great choice. It's popular with both professional chefs and home cooks, especially for those who value sharpness and durability.

Best for Gifting: Hammer Stahl Carving Knife and Fork Set

German Forged High Carbon Stainless Steel Carving Knife and Fork Set | Professional Meat Carving Set with Ergonomic Pakkawood Handle

For a giftable option, we recommend the Hammer Stahl Carving Knife and Fork Set. This luxurious set includes a high-quality carving knife and fork, both made from German carbon steel for excellent durability. The pakkawood handles not only enhance comfort but also add an elegant touch, making the set perfect for special occasions. Although the knife and fork are on the heavier side, this lends them a premium feel. Packaged in a beautiful presentation box, this set makes an ideal gift for any cooking enthusiast.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$89.95 at Amazon

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Still curious about the German Forged Carving Knife and Fork Set? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

Best Long Blade: Kessaku 12-Inch Slicing Carving Knife

KESSAKU Carving Knife - 12 inch - Samurai Series - Razor Sharp - Granton Edge - Forged 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel - Wood Handle with Blade Guard 12" Slicing & Carving Knife

For those who need a longer blade for handling larger cuts of meat, the Kessaku 12-Inch Slicing Carving Knife is highly recommended. Featuring a Granton edge, the blade has small dimples that help release food easily, preventing it from sticking. The pakkawood handle is both stylish and comfortable, providing a secure grip. Additionally, a blade guard ensures safe storage when the knife is not in use. This knife is particularly useful for those who often carve large roasts or barbecue meats.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$39.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Kessaku 12" Carving Knife? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife good for slicing brisket?
If you're planning to slice up some brisket, the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife from the Samurai Series seems like a great option. It's designed specifically for carving, and the 12-inch length makes it well-suited for larger cuts of meat, like brisket. From what our research shows, people really like its balance and sharpness, which helps you get those paper-thin slices that brisket fans are always after. You'll want to take good care of it, though. The manufacturer suggests avoiding the dishwasher, since the heat and detergents can dull the knife and harm its handle over time. Instead, just hand wash it with soap, dry it with a cloth, and let it air dry. This will help keep it sharp and extend its lifespan. The knife's design draws inspiration from traditional Japanese knives, and it's crafted for precision and ease. The manufacturer mentions a good blade-to-handle balance, which might help with reducing fatigue during long slicing sessions—something that's handy when you're dealing with a big brisket. According to our data, folks appreciate the comfortable handle and the knife's impressive sharpness, which makes it handy not just for brisket, but for other carving jobs like roasts and poultry as well. So, if you're serious about carving meat, and brisket in particular, the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife could be worth checking out. Just keep in mind that proper care and maintenance are key to maintaining its sharpness and effectiveness.
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What is the blade material of the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife?
The KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife from the [Samurai Series](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsamurai%2Bseries%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) features a blade made from precision-forged high-carbon stainless steel, per the manufacturer's details. This material is chosen for its durability and ability to hold a sharp edge, making it handy for carving meats like brisket and turkey. An added bonus is the Granton edge, which helps reduce sticking while slicing. The knife's handle is made of [Pakkawood](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpakkawood%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), offering comfort and a nice visual appeal, while the full tang adds strength and balance. This setup is supposed to make the knife comfortable and reliable to use over time. That said, based on our research, some who have used it noticed that the knife isn't very sharp straight out of the box. One person even mentioned it was "so dull" that it needed sharpening right away. This might point to some quality control issues in terms of its initial sharpness. On a positive note, many folks love the craftsmanship and feel it's a good deal, especially after a bit of sharpening. If you're okay with spending a bit of time to sharpen it when you first get it, it could be a solid option that's easy on the budget without sacrificing style. All in all, the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife is known for its attractive design and balanced handling. If you’re looking for an affordable yet stylish knife and don’t mind a little maintenance up front, it might be a great fit for your kitchen.
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How sharp is the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife out of the box?
The KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife from the Samurai Series is generally quite sharp right out of the box. It's designed to make slicing through meats a breeze, from simple roasts to more challenging cuts. The manufacturer's description mentions that the knife has a razor-sharp Granton-edge blade made from high carbon 7Cr17MoV stainless steel. This material not only keeps the knife durable but also does a good job resisting corrosion, so it's built to last even with regular use. The knife also has a full tang construction with a [Pakka Wood](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DPakka%2BWood%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) handle for a balanced and comfortable grip, enhancing the carving experience. As for its sharpness, the knife is hand-honed to a 16-degree edge using the Honbazuke method. According to our research, this technique plays a big role in its initial sharpness, making it great for tasks like slicing brisket and pork shoulders with ease. That said, a few users felt it needed a bit more sharpening to meet their personal sharpness standards, though this seems to be a minor issue compared to the largely positive feedback. There are some nice extras too, like a gift box and a blade guard, which could make it a nice gift option. A few people mentioned small inconsistencies, like the laser-etched patterns not perfectly matching promotional images, but these are pretty minor compared to the knife's performance. Overall, the KESSAKU 12-inch Carving Knife stands up well in terms of sharpness and usability right from the start. Whether you're just starting out in the kitchen or you're a pro, it seems to meet expectations with solid reviews backing it up.

Best for Barbecue: TUO Meat & Carving Forks Knife

TUO Carving Set - 9" Carving Knife & 7" Fork - Professional 2 Pcs Meat Carving Knife Set - German Stainless Steel Slicing Set - Pakkawood Handle - Luxurious Gift Box Included - Fiery Phoenix Series Carving Knife 9 inch & Fork-Carving Set 7 inch

Barbecue enthusiasts will find the TUO Meat & Carving Forks Knife to be a highly functional tool. This innovative knife features a unique fork tip for serving or moving meat, a serrated edge toward the tip, and a straight edge closer to the handle, making it versatile for various tasks. The ergonomic handle design not only provides comfort but also adds visual appeal. Although it might not be as sharp as some other options, its range of functionalities makes it a valuable addition to any barbecue toolkit.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$39.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the TUO Carving Set - Fiery Phoenix Series? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the TUO Carving Set dishwasher safe?
The TUO Carving Set, which includes a 9-inch carving knife and a 7-inch fork, isn't dishwasher safe. According to the manufacturer's description, they recommend hand washing instead. Dishwashers can be pretty harsh with their detergents and high temperatures, which can wear down the blades or the finish over time. From what we've found, hand washing is generally preferred for maintaining the sharpness of quality knives, and the TUO Carving Set is no different. It's made from high-grade German stainless steel, known for its toughness and ability to keep a sharp edge. But even strong materials like these aren't immune to damage from a dishwasher. The set features handles made from Pakkawood—a combination of wood and resin that's not only elegant but also offers a solid grip. Still, it needs a bit of care to stay in good shape. If you put them in the dishwasher repeatedly, there's a chance the handles could warp or crack due to the intense heat and wet conditions. Furthermore, both professional reviews and our research highlight the importance of following the care advice from the manufacturer. This helps maintain the set's sharpness and overall quality. Users have praised the sharpness of these knives right out of the box, saying they're on par with some high-end [Japanese knives](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Djapanese%2Bknives%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). To keep that sharp edge, the best practice is to hand wash them and dry them immediately. So, while it might be tempting to toss them in the dishwasher for a quick clean, if you want to keep your set looking great and performing well for a long time, hand washing is your best bet.
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How well does the TUO Carving Set hold its edge?
The TUO Carving Set, which comes with a 9-inch carving knife and a 7-inch fork, is known for keeping its edge pretty well. It's made of high-carbon German stainless steel, and the manufacturer's description highlights this as a big factor in its sharpness and durability—so it's a good choice if you're investing in a reliable carving set. The knife is designed with an 18-degree edge on both sides, which makes slicing through things like turkey, roast beef, and chicken a breeze. From what we've gathered, folks are generally happy with how the knife holds its sharpness even when used often. Also worth mentioning is the ergonomic handle. Made from Pakkawood, it’s not just nice to look at—it actually helps cut down on wrist strain during long carving sessions. Our research suggests many folks appreciate the comfy grip and balanced weight, which makes it feel pretty natural and easy to handle, even if you're carving for a while. People also seem to enjoy its good looks and fancy packaging. It makes for a great gift for anyone into cooking. Just remember, like with any high-quality blade, you've got to keep up with maintenance. Our findings point out that while the set stays sharp for a long time, doing some honing and taking care of it is wise to keep that sharp edge over the long haul. So, if you’re after a carving set that’s functional, comfortable, and looks good, the TUO Carving Set is worth checking out. It seems to offer a nice mix of utility and design, providing a solid carving experience whether it’s for your own use or as a gift.
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