Knifewear's Top 6 Santokus 2026

Toshihiro Wakui-san is a third-generation blacksmith from the Sanjo region of Japan, starting out making hand-forged crowbars and then pivoting to make some of my favourite knives!  This knife has it all: classic looks, amazing craftsmanship and an absolutely wicked edge. The carbon-steel core does need a little maintenance to prevent rust, but it’s so worthwhile.  The extra length and height compared to other santokus means that this could easily fit into your knife bag as your “everything” knife!

When this came into the warehouse here at Knifewear HQ, it immediately caught my eye.  Just look at it! Layers of beautiful dark damascus cladding over a stainless steel core means that anyone could pick up this knife and go to town. Veggies beware!  The dropped tip gives a great look and offers super-fine precision.

She’s back! And with new shoes!  One of our favourite knife lines of all time, the Fujimoto Nashiji, is back and with a twist. Made by Tadafusa, the Fujimoto Nashiji line has been with Knifewear for many years, and while the steel hasn’t changed, we’ve given the handle a facelift. The handle is a comfortable, burnt maple oval, meaning a smooth transition to the nashiji, pear-skin, stainless cladding, and awesome blue carbon steel core. All for less than $200? Insane.

They might call it SPG Strix, but I’d call it SPG STUNNING! Unique hammering, super hard steel, and low maintenance. What more could you want? The blade shape is a little more curvy than a lot of santokus so if you like to rock this one’s for you. 

The fact that I can include this knife here is, frankly, baffling.  The Fujin line from master blacksmith Yu Kurosaki is one of the most sought-after knife lines of recent years.  Using SG2 stainless steel, Kurosaki hand forges the Fujin line, guaranteeing the incredible quality we’ve come to expect from him over the years. Seriously, how do we have these? Run, don’t walk.

Disclaimer: I’m a huge HADO fan, I may have a bias here.  The Shiosai line from HADO came out a couple of years ago now, and it really is a winner.  It’s lightweight, tall and thin with the stunning fit and finish that HADO is known for.  The new head sharpener, Nomura-san, has not missed a beat and they are still razor sharp and ready to rumble. Shown here with the blue handle, because… well because it’s just cool that's why!

Honourable Mention: Looking to find that perfect knife for your little ones to start using in the kitchen with you? The Tojiro Child’s Santoku will give them (and you) the confidence they need to get started. This knife has a sharp edge that will make cutting cheese, veggies and fruit super easy with a rounded tip for safety. The handle is even rubberized for an easier grip! It’s also a great blade for adults, I love it for folks who are curious but kind of nervous to get a full-size knife. I gave it to my older sister, who loves it since that is all she needs to make some awesome meals.