The 4 Best Santoku Knives, According to My Tests [Video]

The Made In Japanese Damascus Steel Santoku topped my tests with its sharp blade, good looks, and high performance in all situations. For a budget option, the Mercer Culinary Genesis Santoku did quite well in testing despite its shockingly low price.

I tested 12 different santoku knives. Beginning with general design, handle comfort, and weight balance, I rated the knives on a variety of characteristics as I put them through a series of identical tests.

Only after completing all my other tests did I reveal the retail prices of the santokus to consider value for money. At the time of testing, the 12 santokus ranged from $38 to $199, with an average of $131.

Blade Material and Design

Steel is by far the most common material used for knives of all kinds. Japanese knives in particular are often made from carbon steel, which contains extra carbon, making it harder …