10 Best Japanese Paring Knives Reviewed

Our pick: Shun Classic 3 1/2" Paring Knife

After several weeks of hands-on use, the Shun Classic 3.5-inch Paring Knife proved to be a precision tool built for detail work. Designed specifically for peeling, coring, and intricate slicing tasks, it performs exceptionally well with both soft and firm produce. The craftsmanship is apparent in every cut—razor-sharp out of the box, balanced in hand, and refined in finish. While it comes at a premium price, this is a high-performance knife for cooks who value control, sharpness, and heritage craftsmanship.

Pros

• Extremely sharp edge with lasting performance

• Comfortable and secure handle grip

• Lightweight yet well-balanced

• Meticulous Japanese craftsmanship

Con

• Requires careful maintenance to preserve edge and appearance

The Shun Classic 3.5-inch Paring Knife delivers precise, controlled cuts with minimal effort. It's a standout choice for those who regularly prep fruits and vegetables and appreciate the finesse of handcrafted Japanese cutlery. While it demands care and maintenance, the performance more than justifies the investment. Overall, it’s a top-tier paring knife that blends elegance, function, and durability.

Also great: Shun Classic Blonde 3.5" Paring Knife, Handcrafted Japanese Knife

The Shun Classic Blonde 3.5-inch Paring Knife offers the same high-level performance as its darker-handled counterpart but adds a lighter, more contemporary aesthetic. In practice, it handles delicate kitchen tasks—peeling, trimming, and coring—with ease and remarkable precision. Its slim profile and exceptional sharpness make it an ideal choice for cooks who demand control and finesse in a compact blade. The attention to detail in craftsmanship is evident from blade to handle, although like all fine cutlery, it benefits from careful maintenance and storage.

Pros

• Razor-sharp VG-MAX steel edge

• Elegant blonde Pakkawood handle

• Lightweight and maneuverable

• Handcrafted Japanese build quality

Con

• Higher cost compared to similar-sized utility knives

The Shun Classic Blonde 3.5-inch Paring Knife combines refined aesthetics with high-performance functionality. Its sharpness, comfort, and balance make it an indispensable tool for fine prep work. While priced as a premium item, the design and performance justify the investment for those who value craftsmanship and precision in the kitchen.

Also great: MITSUMOTO SAKARI 5.5 inch Japanese Hand Forged Paring Knife

The Mitsumoto Sakari 5.5-inch paring knife offers a unique balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern steel performance. Larger than most paring knives, it feels more like a compact utility blade—ideal for those who prefer a bit more length and heft when prepping fruits and vegetables. The hand-forged 9CR18MOV high-carbon steel delivers strong edge retention, while the octagonal rosewood handle ensures a firm, ergonomic grip. This is a visually striking tool that performs as well as it looks, though it requires consistent care due to its high-carbon composition.

Pros

• Traditional hand-forged texture and aesthetic

• Sharp, durable high-carbon steel blade

• Comfortable octagonal rosewood handle

• Extended blade length offers versatility

Con

• Prone to rust if not properly dried and oiled

The Mitsumoto Sakari 5.5-inch paring knife blends traditional Japanese forging techniques with functional design, offering excellent control and cutting precision. Its longer blade makes it suitable for a wider range of prep tasks beyond typical paring duties. While the high-carbon steel demands careful maintenance, the performance and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile choice for serious home cooks and professionals alike.

Source: Amazon

There are several highly regarded Japanese brands known for producing high-quality knives. Some of the best-known brands include Shun, Miyabi, Global, Masamoto, Tojiro, and Yoshihiro. Each brand offers a range of knives crafted with precision and attention to detail, often using traditional Japanese forging techniques and high-quality materials. The best brand for you may depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

What paring knife do chefs use?

Chefs often use a variety of paring knives depending on personal preference and the specific tasks at hand. However, some popular paring knife choices among chefs include the Wusthof Classic Ikon, Victorinox Fibrox Pro, and the Zwilling J.A. Henckels Four Star. These knives are known for their quality construction, comfortable handles, and versatile blade designs, making them well-suited for intricate tasks such as peeling, trimming, and precise cutting.

What is a Japanese paring knife called?

In Japanese cuisine, a paring knife is often referred to as a "petty knife." The term "petty" translates to "small" or "petite" in English, reflecting the knife's smaller size compared to larger kitchen knives like gyutos or santokus. Japanese petty knives typically have narrow, pointed blades that are well-suited for delicate tasks such as peeling fruits and vegetables, deveining shrimp, or creating intricate garnishes.

Is Mitsumoto Sakari made in Japan?

Mitsumoto Sakari is a brand known for producing high-quality kitchen knives, primarily in the Japanese style. While the brand's knives may be inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and design principles, it's essential to verify the origin of each knife model individually. Some Mitsumoto Sakari knives may indeed be made in Japan, while others may be manufactured in other countries or produced using Japanese-inspired designs and techniques.

What is the most popular knife in Japan?

One of the most popular and iconic knives in Japan is the santoku knife. Santoku translates to "three virtues" or "three uses" in Japanese, referring to its versatility for slicing, dicing, and mincing. Santoku knives typically feature a shorter blade than traditional Western chef's knives, with a flat edge and a sheep's foot blade profile. They are widely used in Japanese households and kitchens for a variety of cooking tasks and are gaining popularity worldwide for their practicality and performance.

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