Best Slicing Knives

Gladiator series 12'' carving knife on a wooden table with packaging in the background

12'' Carving & Slicing Knife | Gladiator Series | Dalstrong ©

A perfectly stocked kitchen is an absolute dream. While we can’t have all the kitchen appliances we may salivate over, we can at least arm ourselves with the necessities.

Aside from the day to day paring knife and chef’s knife there’s at least one more knife you’ll need in your arsenal. The slicing knife is that perfect long blade for special occasions. Think Christmas dinners, Easter Sundays, or any time you need to carve a fresh roast out of the oven.

The Best Slicing Knives

12'' Slicing & Carving Knife | Delta wolf Series | Dalstrong ©

Everyone needs a good slicer knife in their lives. From Thanksgiving dinners to any large get together you can’t go wrong with a kitchen knife that slices easily through cooked meat.

Get to know what exactly you should be looking for in a slicing knife so that you can ensure you’re picking the right one for your kitchen. After, we’ll look at our top ten best slicing knives that are everything you’d ever want and more. We’ll compare some pros and cons of each then answer any remaining questions you may still have about slicing and carving knives.

1. What is a Slicing Knife?

14'' Slicing & Carving Knife | Shogun Series | Dalstrong ©

A slicing knife has a long blade and is similar to a chef knife in that it can cut a variety of foods. While its main purpose is to tackle proteins (think large roasts of meat, lamb, chicken, turkey) it can also be used to cut large vegetables like all that delicious autumn squash. Often referred to as a brisket knife or a carving knife this knife is quite versatile in that it can also act as a bread knife if push comes to shove.

Its blade length is long, it usually has a pointed edge, and can often include a granton edge which is useful for reducing friction when you slice, allowing for that perfect slice of meat every single cut.

2. What to Look For in a Slicing Knife

10.5'' Sujihiki Slicing Knife | Shogun Series | Dalstrong ©

While carving knives may look the same to you, I assure you there are subtle differences you’ll want to watch out for. Make sure you take the following categories into consideration as a slicing knife (with the proper cutting board and knife sharpener) is an investment that will last you long into your culinary career.

Steel

You mainly want to look out for a high carbon stainless steel. It’s the ideal steel to slice through brisket or any meat that you’ve been roasting away for hours on end. While I’m always partial to a Japanese knife, there are stellar high carbon German and US stainless steels on the market these days as well.

Design

The design of the knife refers to its overall make and look. While the details may matter to some chefs, I always look at the design of the blade when making any purchasing decisions.

You’ll obviously need a razor sharp edge, but in particular you want to make sure that the blade length is right for you. Whether you prefer a longer blade is completely up to you but there are obvious pros and cons of both.

Handle

An ergonomic handle is a must as it ensures maximum comfort and ability to grip. While some love a fibrox handle (essentially a plastic handle made from TPE) others prefer an ABS polymer handle as it tends to last longer.

Price

This is obviously a point of consideration as you prepare to purchase just about anything. I find that this knife in particular, due to its large range of blade lengths, has quite a wide range in terms of pricing. While you can spend big money (upwards of $100) to get an absolutely stellar knife, there are still fantastic options for those of you looking to spend less.

3. Best Slicing Knives

1. Slicing & Carving Knife 10” | Gladiator Series

With a granton edge, this is the ideal knife for those thinner slices of roast or big, hard to cut vegetables. It is the perfect blade length and the classic look of a sleek and professional slicing and carving knife.

Pros

Made from a single piece of high carbon German ThyssenKrupp Steel this is the kind of high quality steel that will last you for all the Thanksgivings of your lifetime.
Its 10” blade length is not too long nor too small, absolutely just right.
The handle is indeed made from ABS polymer, meaning it will withstand the test of time, but its ergonomic handle ensures maximum comfort as you slice.

Cons

This is the type of slicing knife that most industrial kitchens use, but if you have a particular itch for a longer blade length, consider a 12” slicing knife.
I’ve used a slicing knife to cut just about everything. While you can use this as a multipurpose knife, there is no serrated edge to the blade meaning it’s not the ideal kitchen knife for bread (unlike these knives which are made for bread slicing).
The blade on this particular slicing knife is quite straight, much like an old school electric knife. If you’re looking for a bit of a curve to slice through your meat, this may not be the one for you.

2. Extra-Long Slicing & Carving Knife 14” | Shogun Series

This is by far the longest slicing and carving knife on the list. For those of you who are preparing turkeys for a crowd of 50 or interested in slicing the biggest watermelon in the world this is absolutely the knife for you.

Pros

With its 14” you may be worried about maneuverability, but with its slightly curved belly, and a more narrow tip, you get not only the length but the ability to slice your meat with absolute precision.
Forged from a single piece of ultra premium Japanese high-carbon AUS-10V steel, it has alternating layers of SUS410 Damascus, making it durable, stain resistant, and some of the finest edge retention on a blade that money can buy.
The blade is tapered meaning nothing will stick to it as you slice through whatever massive protein or vegetable you throw its way.

Cons

To some the length of this blade may be a bit overwhelming. If you’re looking for something smaller there are plenty of other 9”, 10”, or 12” slicing knives to choose from.
The price point on this particular slicing knife is slightly higher than average. Though its size makes up for the difference in price, in my opinion.
If you’re in the market to shop for just one knife that does it all I’d consider looking into a utility knife for your cutting needs over this specialized, extra long blade option.

3. Slicing and Carving Knife 12” | Delta Wolf Series

This is exactly the kind of brisket slicer we all need in our lives. Its durable, camouflage handle, stain and scratch resistant material means this is a kind of warrior knife in your kitchen arsenal.

Pros

The black coating does more than just look fresh. Its onyx-black Titanium Nitride, reduces friction and protects against corrosion, meaning this knife can carve up roasts for many more dinner parties to come.
Its high carbon steel and pointed tip has been hand sharpened ensuring you the sharpest edge possible that will make cutting brisket feel like slicing butter.
It has that granton edge we’ve come to expect from our classic slicing and carving knives which reduces drag and friction.

Cons

The all black design screams power, but it may not match your other kitchen decor. For those more interested in the classic steel knife this carving knife may be a bit too bold for you.
Both the Shadow Black Series 12” and the Gladiator Series 12” have slightly lower price points.
If 12” seems like too much blade, consider a smaller version like an 8” slicing carving knife.

4. Sujihiki Slicing Knife 10.5” | Shogun Series

This is one of the most elegant knives you could find in your search for that ideal slicer. A Japanese knife (the word sujihiki translates literally to fresh slicer) won’t let you down in terms of precision, full tang, and a whole lot of power.

Pros

I truly believe that the 10.5” blade with a super-steel core combines the best elements of a slicing knife without an overwhelming blade length to control. For those of you with smaller chef hands, this is the perfect size.
This knife is shockingly sharp and has top of the line edge retention, making the investment well worth your while.
I can’t say enough good things about a AUS-10V Japanese super steel core mixed with a rust/corrosion cladding. The knife is looking out for you and your years and years of future cutting.

Cons

While its size is an absolute plus for me, those of you that are in the market for a longer blade might consider cutting your meat with a 12” slicing knife instead.
If you love this type of knife you may be more interested in a very similar style, the yanagiba knife. This 9.5” knife in particular I absolutely love.
The stainless steel look is bound to fit into every kitchen, but if you want to get more experimental with your knife design this may not be the one for you.

5. Slicing Carving Knife 8” | Gladiator Series

With its sharp edge and smaller blade length this could be the perfect knife for those of us with smaller hands. It has been designed for maximum comfort and maneuverability as you create those thin slices of birthday cakes, holiday hams, and miscellaneous boneless meat.

Pros

The ergonomic handle and attention to knuckle clearance means you can get those thin slices and remain comfortable the whole time.
The price point on this knife cannot be beat. It’s an absolute steal.
Made from precision forged, ultra sharp, wear resistant, single-piece, high carbon German ThyssenKrupp Steel you know this knife will stand the test of time.

Cons

Haters might argue that 8” is just not enough knife to carve through a slab of brisket the size of a small child without some tear.
This particular knife has quite a straight blade. If you’re looking for a more curved blade but still with that granton edge, consider this butcher knife, perfect for slicing brisket.
The stainless steel look is classic and classy, but if you want a more modern look to your slicing and carving knife, try this one.

6. Carving Knife & Fork Set 9” | Shadow Black Series

Anyone who cooks meat on a regular basis will want a carving knife and carving fork on hand. While an electric carving knife could work as well, it’s often more hassle than I like to mess with. But with this carving knife and fork set you’ll be ready to hand out brisket to all your friends and family.

Pros

The handle on this knife is made to manage every type of grip. Its unique geometry allows you to tuck the knife into your palm so that you have a firm grip as you slice.
Crafted from a single piece of steel the blade is full-tang and includes a Titanium Nitride non-reflective coating which helps make it the most robust, wear resistant, and stick-free knife in the game.
The price point on this knife is an absolute bargain considering you get a 9” carving knife and a fork to hold down the brisket as you slice.

Cons

Much like the Delta Wolf 12” knife this all black, geometric design may not be a one size fits all type.
The blade length of this knife may not work for everyone. If you’re looking for a slightly larger blade I’d recommend the Sujihiki Slicing Knife 10.5” or any of the 12” options.
It has a slightly rounded tip which I love but lacks the added element of those serrated blades made for slicing bread.

7. Slicing & Carving Knife 12” | Gladiator Series

This is exactly the type of knife I’d imagine every brisket at those southern bbq joints to be cut with. Think of this as the older sibling of this 8” slicing knife. With its blade length, high carbon German steel, and expert engineering you can’t go wrong with this as your meat slicer.

Pros

This knife has been hand sharpened to 16-18 degrees per side, meaning its blade is crazy sharp. It also has a scalloped edge so you know food won’t stick to the blade as you make those thin slices.
Precision forged from high-carbon German stainless steel this knife will not wear nor stain and is made of the highest imported quality materials.
The handle on this knife is absolutely stellar. The bolster adds counter weight and protects your fingers while the triple rivets in the handle take care of strength, allowing you nonstop robust, clean cuts.

Cons

This is the best type of knife for carving cooked meat, but if you’re looking to carve up some raw meat consider instead a boning knife.
Again, the 12” carving knife is incredibly common and this knife in particular doesn’t sacrifice control for length but I personally prefer a slightly smaller blade.
I actually don’t mind the price point on this knife, but if you’re looking for a cheaper 12” consider the Shadow Black Series version.

8. Spanish Style Meat & Ham Slicer 12” | Shogun Series

If you are even considering cutting a cured meat look no further than the perfect ham slicer. One of the more unique knives on this list, this 12” Spanish Style is the epitome of elegance. It’s sharp, sleek, and stylish.

Pros

I absolutely love the shape of this blade. It is more narrow than your average slicer, making it perfect for cutting meats and all the cured deliciousness that go into those stellar charcuterie boards.
It has my favorite kind of Japanese super steel making up its core, the ultimate steel for a long lasting, durable, and extremely precise knife.
It is triple riveted and full tang for maximum robustness. This knife can’t be stopped.

Cons

Because of the unique shape of this carving knife it may not be to everyone's taste. For a more traditional style, try this Gladiator Series.
This is a top of the line knife and as such the price point very much reflects that.
If you’re not looking to increase your intake of cured meats, I wouldn’t recommend buying this knife as it’s so beautiful to cut with you’ll want to use it all the time.

9. Carving Knife & Fork Set 9” | Gladiator Series

Picture yourself with a fresh brisket from the smoker. Then picture yourself armed with this carving knife and fork set. It just feels right. With a full tang fork and the narrow design carving knife cutting up meat has never been easier.

Pros

I absolutely love the design of this blade. It’s not nearly as flat or square-looking as some of the other carving knives. Its tapered blade design is the perfect balance of hardness and flexibility.
The 9” length of this blade, mixed with the narrow design means cutting can be controlled and even the most nimble movements can be easily navigated.
The G10 Garolite Spanish handle is stain resistant, water resistant, and laminated for extra strength and durability.

Cons

While you get a bang for your buck with this knife and fork combo, the price point is slightly higher than the Shadow Black version.
If you’re looking for that classic straight design (like this knife) the slight curvature may not be for you.
If you’re interested in this carving knife, you might also consider this incredible knife block.

10. Slicing & Carving Knife 12” | Shadow Black Series

Last but certainly not least this all black, muscular slicing and carving knife will make cutting our holiday turkey seem like anyone at all could do it. Inspired by the F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter this bold knife will turn heads in any kitchen.

Pros

This blade has been engineered to ensure an ideal balance between resilience and performance, meaning you can slice with minimal drag and maximum precision.
Its handle is made from fiber-resin military grade G10 meaning it won’t warp in the cold, in the heat, or with any moisture.
With its expert edge retention and power the price point of this knife couldn’t get any better.

Cons

The shape of this blade is incredibly straight. If you prefer a bit more of a curve to your carving knife you may want to take a look at these other options.
The geometric, all black design makes a statement. If you aren’t trying to be loud with your kitchen knives you may want a more classic design.
While I tend to prefer a smaller length the bold nature of this knife lends itself to 12” of straight power.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a carving and slicing knife?

Most of the knives on this list have been the best of both. Both carving and slicing knives are generally made of high carbon stainless steel with long blade lengths. But the main difference is that a carving knife has a sharp edge and a slicing knife has a rounded tip. For more on the best carving knives check out this article.

What’s the best slicing knife?

While this is entirely subjective I’d say my personal favorite slicing knife has Japanese steel, isn’t too crazily long in terms of blade length, and looks sleek as it slices through brisket. In other words, this Sujihiki Slicing Knife 10.5.” For other stellar brisket slicing knife options read this article.

What is a Sujihiji?

It is a type of slicing knife that has been described as the Western-style equivalent of the traditional Yanagi knife. It’s a fantastic knife. This one in particular will slice through anything and everything effortlessly.