If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen tool that will make meal prep a breeze, consider investing in the best all-purpose Japanese knife. With its sharp and precise edge, this type of knife can handle various tasks, from chopping vegetables and slicing meat to filleting fish and mincing herbs. But before you make a purchase, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you end up with the best knife for you.
First, think about the blade material. Japanese knives are usually made of high-carbon stainless steel, which is durable and easy to sharpen. However, some blades may be more prone to rust and may require special care. You should also consider the size and weight of the knife, as well as the shape and comfort of the handle. A good all-purpose knife should feel well-balanced and comfortable in your hand, whether you’re left- or right-handed.
If you’re still not convinced that a Japanese all-purpose knife is worth the investment, consider the following questions. Do you want a kitchen tool that can handle different types of food preparation tasks? Do you appreciate the precision and control of a sharp blade? Do you want to save time and effort by using a versatile knife that can replace many other tools in your kitchen? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a Japanese all-purpose knife may be just what you need.
10 Best All Purpose Japanese Knife
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This product is ideal for cutting fruits and vegetables with its small, high carbon steel blade and comfortable wooden handle.
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Ideal for chefs and home cooks to effortlessly slice and dice meat, fish, vegetables, and sushi with a precise and sharp blade.
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The product is ideal for home or restaurant use, with its ultra-sharp Japanese blades and ergonomic Pakkawood handles.
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Ideal for professional and home chefs who value sharpness, durability, and unique design of their kitchen knives.
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5
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The product is ideal for chopping vegetables and serving as a versatile chef's knife due to its hand-sharpened Japanese blade.
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6
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Ideal for precision food preparation, chopping, slicing, and dicing with ease due to its sharp and versatile blade.
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7
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Ideal for chopping vegetables and all-purpose chef tasks, handcrafted Japanese knife with a hollow ground blade.
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8
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Ideal for all-purpose food slicing and cutting, especially meat and vegetables, with a 6-inch blade made of high carbon steel.
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9
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The product is ideal for professional chefs who need a high-quality, durable and sharp knife for slicing and chopping meat and vegetables.
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10
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This product is ideal for all-purpose food preparation and serves as a chef knife alternative with an Asian-inspired design.
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1. Findking Multi-Purpose Paring Knife With Rosewood Handle
The Findking Dynasty Series offers a high-quality utility knife that is perfect for the everyday use of any chef. This knife uses 9CR18MOV steel, which is known for its durability and strength. With an HRC of 60+/-2, the blade is able to hold an angled edge for an extended period of time, making it a reliable tool in the kitchen. The blade also features clad dimples that allow for easy food release while slicing or dicing. It is important to note that the knife should not be used to cut frozen products, as this may damage the edge.
The African rosewood handle of the Dynasty Series knife is both beautiful and comfortable for the user. Its stability allows for full manipulation of the blade, making it an effective tool for precision and endurance cuts. The handle also makes food preparation enjoyable again.
The balance point of the knife runs heel to spine up the billet, providing a comfortable grip for the user and allowing for precise cuts with less wear and tear on the hands. The weight of the knife is towards the blade, making it efficient for rock chopping motions.
The design of the Dynasty Series utility knife is focused on both beauty and functionality. It is designed to be efficient for everyday use while also showcasing the beauty of fruit knives.
At Findking, quality is a top priority. The company promises that the price of their products will not be affected by their strive for the highest quality. With the Dynasty Series utility knife, customers can trust that they are getting a high-quality, reliable tool for their kitchen.
2. Japanese Rosewood Chef Knife With Carbon Blade.
The FAMCUTE series is a top-quality chef knife made from 100% high-quality steel sourced from Japan. This knife is perfect for everyday use and is designed to last with proper maintenance. The blade is made of 9CR18MOV steel, which has an HRC of 60+/-2, making it easy to sharpen and maintain its edge for longer periods. The knife has a clad dimple that allows for easy food release while slicing or dicing vegetables, fruits, fish, and meats. However, it is not recommended to cut frozen products with this knife as it may damage the blade's edge.
The knife's ergonomic design is inspired by the special beauty of chef's knives. The focus is on comfortability and efficiency for everyday use. The blade length is 21.2cm, while the handle length is 15.3 cm, with an overall length of 36.5cm. When using the pinch grip, the blade length is considered a "true 8" inch, allowing the user to maximize maneuverability of the blade's cutting edge.
The handle of the FAMCUTE chef knife is made from African rosewood, which complements the knife's beauty and provides comfort to the user for extended use. The handle's stability allows the user to manipulate the blade fully, making it effective for precision and endurance cuts. This handle makes food preparation fun again.
The knife's weight and balance are designed for maximum comfort and efficiency. The balance point runs heel to spine up the billet, allowing the user a comfortable grip with precise cuts and less wear and tear on hands. The weight is towards the blade, making the knife efficient during the rock chopping motion.
FAMCUTE promises quality products to its customers, and if you find any quality problems with the chef knife, they will replace it free of charge. With its high-quality steel, ergonomic design, and natural handle, the FAMCUTE chef knife is an excellent investment for any chef looking for a reliable and efficient knife.
3. Pakkapro Chef Knife Set – Perfect For Pros!
Introducing the SANDEWILY Professional Kitchen Knife Set, a 3-piece set that includes an 8-inch chef knife, a 7.5-inch cutting knife, and a 5-inch paring knife. This set is carefully designed to cater to all your cutting, dicing, slicing, and chopping needs for vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, and more. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, this set is a must-have for your kitchen.
The handle of each knife is made of Pakkawood, and the knife neck and tail are designed with steel cushion to provide perfect stability and control force. The cushion is firm and durable, ensuring that it does not shrink, fade, or deform easily. The size, length, and shape of the handle conform to ergonomics, providing better grip strength, comfort, and flexibility. This reduces fatigue caused by long-term use and ensures that you can use these knives with ease. Each knife comes with a sheath to protect your blade and fingers.
The SANDEWILY chef knives are made from German high-quality high carbon stainless steel, which is known for its high hardness, anti-corrosion, wear-resistant, durability, and sharpness. The carbon content is 0.5%, which makes the hardness to HRC56±2. The blade edge has been carefully sharpened by professional craftsmen, with an 8-12 degree angle per side. It is important to note that these knives are extremely sharp, so be careful while using them.
The set is easy to wash and stain-resistant. The food-grade metallic paint has a beautiful luster, and the laminated polishing prevents tool rust, corrosion, and adhesion. The clean and sanitary structure ensures that the knives do not fade or lose their luster even after long-term use. This set of kitchen knives is easy to clean and can accompany you for a long time under proper cleaning methods. Hand washing is recommended, and it is best to dry the knives with a cloth after washing.
The SANDEWILY Professional Kitchen Knife Set comes with a scabbard and premium box, making it an ideal gift choice for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Christmas, and more. The company strives to provide excellent service to each customer and ensure a 100% good shopping experience. If you have any questions, feel free to contact them.
4. Jikko's 13" Damascus Chef Knife: Sharp & Stylish.
This Japanese Chef's Knife is a top-quality kitchen tool made with superior materials and crafted with precision. The blade is expertly forged from 67-layers of VG10 Japanese Damascus steel, which is renowned for its exceptional sharpness and strength. Compared to conventional industrial steels, this knife is notably superior in terms of performance and durability.
The handle is designed with an ergonomic octagonal shape, made of rare cocobolo wood that provides a perfect balance for both left-handed and right-handed chefs. This feature allows for comfortable and easy handling, reducing the risk of fatigue during extended use.
The blade of this Japanese knife is sharp and resistant, with a blade angle of only 15° for fast and efficient cuts. This angle is significantly smaller than most knives, allowing for a more precise and effortless cutting experience. The treatment with liquid nitrogen and the addition of carbon further enhance the knife's durability, making it four times stronger than a conventional kitchen knife.
This product comes delivered in a luxurious gift box, making it the perfect present for any cooking enthusiast. The tradition of luxury cutlery is evident in the design and craftsmanship of this knife. It is a gift that will be appreciated by anyone who takes their culinary skills seriously.
Lastly, customers can be confident in their purchase with the assurance of a 90-day refund or replacement policy. If any issues arise, the manufacturer promises to provide the best service possible.
5. Wasabi Pro Nakiri Knife: Perfect For Chopping!
The Kai PRO Wasabi Grey 6.5-inch Nakiri Knife is a vegetable knife that is highly favored by both professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts. This Japanese-style knife is specifically designed for preparing fruits and vegetables with ease.
The knife features a straight blade, edge, and spine that allows for simple push cuts. The blunt end adds an extra safety feature to the design, ensuring that the knife is easy and safe to use.
Constructed from high-carbon stainless steel, this knife is highly resistant to wear and corrosion. The blade is also easy to sharpen, ensuring that it retains its edge for a long time.
The handle of the Kai PRO Wasabi Grey knife is made from polypropylene, a traditional Japanese-style material that is both comfortable and easy to use. Its symmetrical design ensures that the knife can be used by both left and right-handed users.
Established in Seki City, Japan's ancient sword and knifemaking center, Kai PRO is a brand that provides customers worldwide with beautiful, high-quality cutlery, accessories, and more.
6. Kyoku Daimyo 7-Inch Santoku Knife – Sleek & Sharp
Kyoku's Daimyo series presents a 7-inch Santoku knife, a versatile tool that combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. The blade is made of Japanese 440C stainless steel, which is vacuum heat treated to ensure superior precision and control for both home chefs and culinary professionals.
The ultra-sharp blade is sharpened to a 13-15 degree edge, allowing for precise cuts through meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, and more with minimal resistance. The knife's 59-60 HRC strength provides unrivaled performance, superior corrosion resistance, and exceptional edge retention.
The rosewood handle of the knife is carefully constructed to withstand cold, heat, corrosion, and moisture. Its signature mosaic pin adds to its unique design. The knife comes with a sheath and a case for easy storage and maintenance.
Thanks to its ergonomic design, this Santoku knife provides a perfect shape and blade-to-handle weight distribution, making it well-balanced and easy to use without causing fatigue or cramps, even during extended use in professional settings.
Kyoku stands behind their product with a lifetime warranty, giving customers peace of mind knowing they are investing in a high-quality, long-lasting tool. Kyoku's customer service is always available to answer any questions or concerns.
7. Kanso Nakiri – Master Your Veggie Chops
The Shun Kanso 6.5-inch Hollow Ground Nakiri Knife is a popular choice among both professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts for slicing and preparing fruits and vegetables. This vegetable knife is designed in traditional Japanese style, with a straight blade and spine that make simple push cuts a breeze. The blunt end ensures extra safety while the hollow-ground indentations allow food to release easily from the blade.
Crafted with high-quality materials, this cooking knife is constructed from AUS10A high-carbon stainless steel that is refined with Vanadium. This ensures that the blade is both strong and long-lasting, with resistance to corrosion and wear. The razor-sharp edge is perfect for precision cuts.
The handle of the Shun Kanso knife is made with contoured tagayasan, also known as "iron sword wood". This durable and dense wood offers a secure grip with precision balance, making it easy to use for extended periods of time. The full-tang handle construction ensures that the knife is well-balanced, with the blade and handle seamlessly connected.
In addition to its exceptional functionality, this vegetable knife boasts a beautiful design. Inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan, Shun knives are handcrafted by highly skilled artisans to produce blades of unparalleled quality and beauty. The Shun Kanso 6.5-inch Hollow Ground Nakiri Knife is no exception, with its stunning design and flawless construction.
Included with the knife is a sheath to protect the blade when not in use. Overall, the Shun Kanso 6.5-inch Hollow Ground Nakiri Knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and beautiful vegetable knife.
8. Japutility – 6" Kitchen Knife With Gift Box
The Kitchen Utility Knife is the perfect tool for mid-sized kitchen tasks that require controlled and precise cuts. It is sized between a paring knife and a chef knife, making it easy to swap in for either. This knife is ideal for basic chops, appetizer boards, and kitchen helpers.
Crafted from premium 9CR18MOV high carbon steel, the blade of this kitchen utility knife is tough, anti-corrosion, and boasts a hardness of 58±2HRC. With a thickness of 2.5mm, it is more durable and balanced than other kitchen knives. To prevent rust during shipping, the blade is coated with a layer of anti-rust oil, which can be easily washed off once you receive it.
The handle is made of waterproof and anti-slip rosewood. Its cylindrical shape provides a comfortable grip, ensuring that your hand won't slip while using it. However, for a longer lifespan, it is recommended to keep the handle dry and place it in a ventilated area.
The blade of this kitchen utility knife is manually forged by experienced craftsmen, resulting in an unevenness that upgrades the hardness of the blade surface and makes it sharper. The clad dimple allows for easy food release while slicing or dicing. The knife comes in a unique and exquisite black gift box, making it a perfect gift for your families and friends during Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, Weddings, Birthdays, or any other special occasion.
9. Shogun Series Kiritsuke Chef Knife.
Introducing Kyoku's premier Shogun series Kiritsuke knife, an 8.5" blade that combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship to deliver superior precision and control for both home chefs and culinary professionals.
Crafted with Japanese 67 layer Damascus VG-10 steel, the blade has undergone cryogenic treatment and sharpened to an 8 to 12 degree edge using the traditional 3-step Honbazuke method, resulting in exceptionally precise cuts through meat, fish, vegetables, and more with minimal resistance. The 8.5" Japanese VG-10 stainless steel blade boasts 58-60 HRC strength, providing unrivaled performance, superior corrosion resistance, and exceptional edge retention.
The Kiritsuke knife's carefully constructed fiberglass handle features a signature mosaic pin and can withstand cold, heat, corrosion, and moisture. The provided sheath and case allow for easy preservation and storage, ensuring your knife remains clean and secure.
Ergonomically designed with meticulous craftsmanship, this knife provides the perfect shape and weight distribution for well-balanced work, preventing fatigue and cramping even in professional settings requiring heavy use.
Order with peace of mind knowing that the Shogun-class Kiritsuke knife comes with a strong and lifelong warranty, backed by Kyoku's friendly 24/7 customer service. Invest in this premium knife for unparalleled precision and control in your kitchen.
10. Shun Dual Core Santoku – All-Purpose Japanese Knife
The Shun 7-inch Dual Core Santoku knife is a must-have for any cook seeking a versatile and efficient kitchen knife. Its Asian-inspired design allows for precise handling of all basic kitchen cutting tasks, making it a favorite among cooks.
This kitchen knife is shorter than a standard chef's knife, yet light, agile, and easy to maneuver with just enough belly curve for rocking cuts. Its high-quality construction features 71 alternating micro-layers of high-carbon, high-chromium VG10 and VG2 stainless steel, resulting in a long-lasting, high-performance, razor-sharp cutting edge that can handle any task.
The knife's traditional octagon-shaped, ebony-finished Pakkawood handle provides a comfortable, secure grip, making it easy to handle even with wet hands. A rabbet tang controls weight and enhances maneuverability, ensuring you can use the knife with ease for extended periods.
Inspired by the traditions of ancient Japan, Shun knives are handcrafted by highly skilled artisans, resulting in blades of unparalleled quality and beauty. The Shun 7-inch Dual Core Santoku knife is no exception and is sure to impress with its stunning design and exceptional performance.
Best All Purpose Japanese Knife FAQs
Are all-purpose Japanese knives dishwasher safe?
It is generally not recommended to put all-purpose Japanese knives in the dishwasher as it can cause damage to the blade and handle. The high heat and force of the dishwasher can cause the blade to become dull, and the handle to crack or warp. Additionally, the chemicals in some dishwasher detergents can corrode the blade over time.
To ensure the longevity of your Japanese knife, it is best to hand wash it with mild soap and warm water, and dry it thoroughly with a clean towel. This will help to prevent any damage to the blade or handle, and keep it in optimal condition for longer. It may take a bit more effort to hand wash your knife, but it will be worth it in the long run to ensure that it lasts for years to come.
Are Japanese knives suitable for left-handed users?
Yes, Japanese knives can be suitable for left-handed users. However, it is important to note that most Japanese knives are designed with a right-handed orientation, meaning that the blade is sharpened on the right side and the handle is angled towards the left. This can make it difficult for left-handed users to use the knife comfortably and safely.
Fortunately, there are many Japanese knife manufacturers that offer left-handed versions of their knives. These left-handed knives are designed with a mirrored blade and handle orientation to cater to left-handed users. Alternatively, some manufacturers offer knives with symmetrical blade and handle designs that can be used by both right and left-handed users.
It is important for left-handed users to choose a knife that is comfortable and safe to use. They should also consider the type of knife they need for their specific culinary tasks, as Japanese knives come in a variety of shapes and sizes for different purposes.
Can an all-purpose Japanese knife be used for filleting fish?
While an all-purpose Japanese knife can certainly be used for a variety of tasks in the kitchen, it may not be the best choice for filleting fish. Filleting requires a specific type of blade that is thin, flexible, and sharp to precisely remove the bones and skin from the fish. All-purpose knives, on the other hand, may be too thick and rigid for this task, making it harder to get the clean cuts needed for a professional-looking fillet.
If you plan on filleting fish regularly, it's recommended to invest in a specialized fillet knife that is designed for this purpose. A good fillet knife will have a thin, flexible blade that can easily maneuver around the contours of the fish, making it easier to remove the bones and skin. Additionally, a fillet knife will typically have a longer blade than an all-purpose knife, which allows for more control and precision when filleting.
In short, while an all-purpose Japanese knife can be used for filleting fish in a pinch, it's not the best tool for the job. It's worth investing in a specialized fillet knife if you plan on doing this task frequently.
How do you maintain and sharpen an all-purpose Japanese knife?
Maintaining and sharpening an all-purpose Japanese knife is essential to ensure that it remains sharp and efficient for a long time. Here are some tips on maintaining and sharpening an all-purpose Japanese knife:
1. Regular honing: Use a honing steel to regularly straighten the blade's edge, which will help it retain its sharpness.
2. Whetstone sharpening: Use a whetstone to sharpen the blade to its original sharpness. Soak the whetstone in water for at least 10 minutes before use. Place the knife at an angle of 10-15 degrees and slide it back and forth on the whetstone. Repeat the process on the other side of the blade.
3. Cleaning: Always clean the knife after use. Use a soft sponge or cloth and mild soap to remove any food residue from the blade. Dry the knife with a towel immediately after washing.
4. Storage: Store the knife in a knife block or a sheath to protect the blade from damage.
5. Avoid misuse: Do not use the knife to cut hard materials like bones or frozen food. It can damage the blade's edge.
By following these tips, you can maintain and sharpen your all-purpose Japanese knife and ensure that it remains sharp and efficient for a long time.
What are the top brands of all-purpose Japanese knives?
Japanese knives are known for their sharpness, precision, and craftsmanship. When it comes to all-purpose knives, there are several top brands to choose from.
One of the most popular brands is Shun. Their knives are known for their exceptional quality, sharpness, and beautiful design. Another top brand is Global, which is known for its lightweight and ergonomic design. Their knives are made from high-quality materials and are designed for optimal performance.
Miyabi is another top brand that produces high-quality Japanese knives. Their knives are known for their exceptional balance, sharpness, and durability. The brand also offers a wide range of styles and designs to choose from.
Other notable brands include Masamoto, Tojiro, and Sakai Takayuki. Each of these brands offers a unique style and design, so it is important to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. In general, all of these brands are highly respected within the industry and are known for producing some of the best all-purpose Japanese knives available.
What is the average lifespan of an all-purpose Japanese knife?
The average lifespan of an all-purpose Japanese knife can vary depending on several factors such as the quality of the knife, the frequency of usage, and the level of maintenance. Typically, a high-quality Japanese knife that is well-maintained can last for decades, while a lower quality knife may only last a few years.
To extend the lifespan of your Japanese knife, it is recommended to properly maintain and care for it. This includes sharpening it regularly, hand-washing it and drying it immediately after use, and storing it in a knife block or sheath to prevent damage. It is also important to use the knife for its intended purpose and avoid using it on hard surfaces or cutting through bones, as this can cause damage to the blade and shorten its lifespan.
Overall, investing in a high-quality Japanese knife and taking proper care of it can ensure a long lifespan and high performance for years to come.
What is the price range for a good quality all-purpose Japanese knife?
The price range for a good quality all-purpose Japanese knife can vary depending on the brand, materials used, and other factors. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 or more for a high-quality Japanese knife. Some of the factors that can impact the price of a Japanese knife include the type of steel used in the blade, the handle material, the craftsmanship involved in making the knife, and the overall design and functionality of the knife. It's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that you're getting a knife that is worth the investment. Additionally, it's always a good idea to take care of your Japanese knife properly to ensure that it lasts for years to come.
What makes Japanese knives superior to other types of knives?
Japanese knives are considered superior to other types of knives due to their exceptional sharpness, durability, and precision. The secret behind their sharpness lies in the unique blade-making process used in Japan, which involves high-quality steel and a meticulous forging technique that creates a harder, thinner, and sharper blade edge. The use of harder steel also means that Japanese knives can hold their edge for a longer time than their counterparts. Furthermore, Japanese knives are designed with a thinner and sharper bevel, allowing for more precise and delicate cuts. This precision is especially important for the presentation of food, which is highly valued in Japanese cuisine. Overall, Japanese knives offer unmatched quality, precision, and durability, making them a top choice for professional chefs and home cooks alike.
What size Japanese knife is best for all-purpose use?
When it comes to choosing the best Japanese knife for all-purpose use, there are a few factors to consider. The most important factor is the size of the knife. Generally, a Japanese chef knife, also known as a Gyuto, with a blade length of 8 inches to 10 inches is considered the best option for all-purpose use. This size is large enough to handle most tasks, from slicing meats to chopping vegetables, while still being maneuverable enough for precision work.
However, it's important to keep in mind that the size of the knife you choose ultimately depends on your personal preference and the tasks you plan to use it for. If you primarily work with smaller ingredients or have a smaller hand size, a shorter blade may be more comfortable and practical for you. On the other hand, if you frequently work with large cuts of meat or have a larger hand size, a longer blade may be more suitable. Ultimately, the best Japanese knife for all-purpose use is one that feels comfortable in your hand and can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
What type of steel is best for an all-purpose Japanese knife?
When it comes to all-purpose Japanese knives, the best type of steel to use is high-carbon stainless steel. This type of steel is a combination of high carbon steel and stainless steel, which means that it is durable, sharp, and resistant to corrosion. High-carbon stainless steel has a high level of carbon, which gives it the ability to hold a sharp edge for a long time. It also has a high level of chromium, which makes it resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring that your knife will last a long time.
One of the most popular types of high-carbon stainless steel used in Japanese knives is VG-10 steel. This steel is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge and is often used in high-end Japanese knives. Other types of high-carbon stainless steel that are commonly used in Japanese knives include AUS-8, AUS-10, and 440C.
Overall, high-carbon stainless steel is the best choice for an all-purpose Japanese knife because it is durable, sharp, and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for a variety of cutting tasks.