15 Best Hollow Edge Kitchen Knives, Compared
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A hollow edge kitchen knife features blade indentations that create air pockets to keep sliced foods from clinging to the steel. To help you choose the right tool, we compared 15 models based on the specifications published on their listings. The Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife takes the top position because its lightweight 0.198-pound build and high-carbon Japanese steel provide effortless handling for everyday vegetable prep.
This guide helps you decide which blade length, steel composition, and handle design match your daily kitchen slicing tasks.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need a lightweight knife for daily vegetable prep Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife The 0.198125-pound weight and 7-inch Japanese steel blade provide an agile, low-fatigue setup for everyday slicing.
- You need maximum reach for butchering large meats Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter Its 12-inch blade delivers the extensive reach needed to carve whole roasts cleanly.
- You want a compact knife for small cutting tasks HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku The 5.5-inch blade length and 0.2-pound profile offer nimble handling for quick kitchen cuts.
- You need a dedicated blade for chopping vegetables Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri Knife Its 7-inch forged German steel nakiri shape provides a flat profile built specifically for produce prep.
Our 15 picks
Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife
Best for: everyday vegetable prep and lightweight slicing
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7-Inch
- Knife Type
- Santoku Knife
- Blade Material
- High-carbon Japanese steel
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 5 × 1 × 18 inches
View on Amazon: Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife (paid link)
This 7-inch Santoku knife from Mercer Culinary features a hollow Granton edge paired with one-piece high-carbon Japanese steel. At roughly 0.2 pounds, it provides a lightweight build designed for chopping, mincing, and dicing vegetables like onions and cabbage. You get an ergonomic black handle with textured finger points for a non-slip grip. It serves you well if you need an everyday prep knife for slicing and chopping tasks.
Pros
- One-piece high-carbon Japanese steel blade for easy edge maintenance
- Hollow Granton edge suited for chopping, mincing, and cutting
- Ergonomic handle with textured finger points for a non-slip grip
- Lightweight build weighing under 0.2 pounds
Cons
- Requires hand washing; not dishwasher safe
- Cannot be submerged in water for long periods
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight 7-inch Santoku knife for routine vegetable prep.
- You need a textured, non-slip handle for added grip and comfort.
- You prefer a high-carbon Japanese steel blade that is easy to maintain.
Skip if
- You prefer dishwasher-safe kitchen knives.
- You want a knife that weighs more than 0.2 pounds.
Verdict: Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife combines high-carbon Japanese steel with a textured non-slip handle. It delivers a lightweight, low-maintenance cutting tool for your daily food preparation.
Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri Knife
Best for: slicing and chopping vegetables
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7 in
- Knife Type
- Nakiri
- Blade Material
- High-carbon German steel
- Construction
- Precision-forged
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri Knife (paid link)
This 7-inch nakiri vegetable knife from the Mercer Culinary Genesis line features a forged high-carbon German steel blade with a hollow Granton edge. The taper-ground edge increases cutting efficiency when you slice and chop produce. At 0.525 pounds, it pairs a durable blade with an ergonomic non-slip handle. It suits you if you want a dedicated German steel vegetable knife for chopping and mincing.
Pros
- Precision-forged high-carbon German steel blade
- Taper-ground hollow Granton edge
- Ergonomic handle provides a non-slip grip even with wet hands
- Weighs 0.525 pounds
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe; requires hand washing and immediate towel drying
- Cannot be submerged in water for long periods
Good fit if
- You want a 7-inch hollow-edge blade designed for cutting and mincing vegetables.
- You prefer a forged German steel knife with a non-slip handle grip.
Skip if
- You want dishwasher-safe cutlery.
- You tend to leave cutlery soaking in the sink.
Verdict: Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri Knife pairs forged German steel with a non-slip grip for produce prep. It gives you efficient hollow-edge chopping performance but strictly requires hand washing.
Mercer Culinary Renaissance 11-Inch Slicing Knife
Best for: slicing roasts, ham, and turkey breasts
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 11"
- Knife Type
- Slicing Knife
- Blade Material
- High-carbon German cutlery steel
- Construction
- Precision-forged
- Dimensions
- 18.8 × 0.63 × 4.13 inches
View on Amazon: Mercer Culinary Renaissance 11-Inch Slicing Knife (paid link)
The Mercer Culinary Renaissance 11-Inch Slicing Knife gives you an extended hollow edge blade forged from high-carbon German cutlery steel. At 18.8 inches in overall length and 7.4 ounces, it provides substantial reach for carving large proteins like ham, prime rib, or turkey breast. The triple-riveted ergonomic handle and rounded spine keep your grip controlled. It suits anyone needing long, uniform cuts across roasts and boneless meats.
Pros
- 11-inch precision-forged high-carbon German steel blade
- Hollow Granton edge helps prevent meat from sticking
- Triple-riveted ergonomic handle with a rounded spine
- Weighs 7.4 ounces with an 18.8-inch overall length
Cons
- Requires hand washing and cannot be cleaned in a dishwasher
- Overall length of 18.8 inches requires substantial storage space
- Dedicated slicing profile is not built for chopping or general prep
Good fit if
- You frequently slice large cooked roasts, hams, or whole turkey breasts.
- You want a long 11-inch hollow edge blade forged from German cutlery steel.
Skip if
- You need a versatile kitchen knife for everyday chopping and dicing.
- You prefer cutlery that can go directly into the dishwasher.
Verdict: Mercer Culinary Renaissance 11-Inch Slicing Knife delivers the length and forged German steel required for clean, uniform cuts across wide roasts and fillets. Its long hollow-edge profile makes it a dedicated carving tool rather than a general prep knife.
Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife
Best for: dedicated seafood prep and color-coded kitchens
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7"
- Knife Type
- Santoku Knife
- Blade Material
- High-carbon Japanese steel
- Construction
- One-piece
- Dimensions
- 17.5 × 1 × 4.13 inches
View on Amazon: Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife brings a hollow Granton edge to daily chopping, mincing, and slicing. Built from one-piece high-carbon Japanese steel, it weighs 0.35 pounds for quick handling. The ergonomic blue handle provides textured finger points for a secure grip during seafood and produce prep. If you want a lightweight utility blade with dedicated color-coding to prevent cross-contact, this knife fits your kitchen workflow.
Pros
- One-piece high-carbon Japanese steel construction
- Granton hollow edge designed for smooth food release
- Ergonomic handle with textured non-slip finger points
- Lightweight 0.35-pound profile for nimble handling
Cons
- Requires hand washing; not safe for dishwashers
- Blue color-coded handle does not match traditional cutlery sets
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight 7-inch santoku with a secure, non-slip handle.
- You use color-coded handles to dedicate tools to seafood prep.
Skip if
- You need dishwasher-safe kitchen knives.
- You prefer neutral black or natural wood handle aesthetics.
Verdict: Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife delivers lightweight Japanese high-carbon steel cutting performance paired with an ergonomic, slip-resistant grip. It serves well for home cooks who prioritize organized food separation and low-fatigue prep.
Wüsthof Classic 6-Inch Hollow-Edge Chef's Knife
Best for: compact forged German hollow-edge prep
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 6"
- Knife Type
- Chef's Knife
- Blade Material
- High Carbon Stainless Steel
- Construction
- Forged
- Blade Hardness
- 58-degree HRC
View on Amazon: Wüsthof Classic 6-Inch Hollow-Edge Chef's Knife (paid link)
This Wüsthof Classic knife gives you a 6-inch hollow edge chef blade forged from high-carbon stainless steel. Tempered to 58 HRC, it uses vertical indentations to push food away and reduce cutting friction. You get a full tang with triple rivets, a full bolster, and a finger guard. At 0.38 pounds, it suits you if you want a compact, fully forged German chef knife with hollow indentations for prep work.
Pros
- Forged high-carbon stainless steel blade tempered to 58 HRC
- Full tang construction with triple-riveted handle
- Full bolster with integrated finger guard
- Hollow edge indentations reduce blade friction and drag
Cons
- 6-inch blade provides less cutting reach than 7- or 8-inch knives
- No protective sheath or blade guard included
Good fit if
- You want a compact 6-inch forged high-carbon stainless steel chef knife.
- You prefer a full tang handle with triple rivets and a full bolster.
- You want hollow edge indentations to help reduce food drag.
Skip if
- You need a longer 7-inch or 8-inch blade for cutting larger ingredients.
- You prefer a lighter knife built without a full bolster.
Verdict: Wüsthof Classic 6-Inch Hollow Edge Chef's Knife delivers precision-forged high-carbon steel and full-tang balance in a maneuverable 6-inch profile. It is a solid choice if you want hollow-edge food release combined with traditional German construction.
Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter
Best for: Butchering large meats and carving whole roasts
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 12-Inch
- Knife Type
- Cimiter
- Blade Material
- high-carbon German steel
- Construction
- precision-forged
- Handle Material
- glass reinforced nylon
View on Amazon: Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter (paid link)
The Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter is a dedicated butchering knife built for processing large cuts of meat. It features a forged, ice-hardened high-carbon German steel blade with a mirror finish and hollow Granton scallops that reduce drag. Its 17-inch total length and glass-reinforced nylon handle give you leverage when you carve roasts, debone, or slice turkey.
Pros
- Forged high-carbon German steel blade ice-hardened for strength
- Granton edge scallops and mirror finish promote smooth meat release
- Glass-reinforced nylon handle provides a textured, non-slip grip
- Long 12-inch blade delivers ample reach for butchering large roasts
Cons
- Requires hand washing and cannot be submerged for long periods
- Large 17-inch overall length demands dedicated storage space
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated hollow-edge blade for breaking down large meats and slicing roasts.
- You prefer a slip-resistant glass-reinforced nylon handle during butchering tasks.
Skip if
- You want a compact, general-purpose hollow-edge knife for everyday prep.
- You require dishwasher-safe cutlery.
Verdict: Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter delivers the blade length, forged German steel construction, and hollow Granton edge needed for heavy-duty butchering and slicing roasts.
Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife
Best for: lightweight, low-drag vegetable and meat slicing
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7"
- Knife Type
- Santoku
- Blade Material
- High Carbon Stainless Steel
- Construction
- Laser-cut stamped
- Handle Material
- Synthetic polypropylene
View on Amazon: Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife offers a lightweight alternative to heavier German cutlery. Weighing 0.29 pounds, it features a laser-cut high-carbon stainless steel blade with vertical hollow-edge indentations designed to push sliced food away from the metal. Its fade-resistant polypropylene handle withstands everyday kitchen heat and impacts. If you want a thin, nimble prep knife for clean, straight cuts without hand fatigue, this model suits your daily cutting routines.
Pros
- Lightweight stamped construction weighing 0.29 pounds
- Vertical hollow-edge indentations reduce food sticking
- Fade- and heat-resistant polypropylene handle
- Laser-cut high-carbon German stainless steel blade
Cons
- Requires hand washing instead of machine cleaning
- Stamped blade lacks the heft of forged construction
Good fit if
- You want an exceptionally light 0.29-pound knife for fast kitchen prep.
- You prefer hollow-edge indentations to keep sliced vegetables from clinging.
- You need an impact-resistant synthetic handle that withstands heavy kitchen use.
Skip if
- You prefer the heavier feel and bolster of a forged blade.
- You require dishwasher-safe kitchen cutlery.
Verdict: Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife pairs a nimble 0.29-pound stamped build with food-releasing blade indentations for fast prep work. It gives you dependable German steel cutting performance without the heavy heft of forged alternatives.
HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku
Best for: compact, lightweight slicing and simple dishwasher cleanup
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 5 in
- Knife Type
- Santoku
- Style
- German
- Dimensions
- 14.5 × 0.75 × 3.5 inches
- Weight
- 3.2 ounces
View on Amazon: HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku (paid link)
The HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku provides a compact blade for detailed cutting tasks like mincing garlic and dicing onions. It features a hollow edge designed to prevent food from sticking to the stain- and rust-free blade. Weighing just 0.2 pounds, this lightweight knife offers agile handling if you prefer maneuverability over heavy cutting heft. It also supports dishwasher cleaning for low-maintenance kitchen care.
Pros
- Weighs 0.2 pounds for lightweight handling
- Hollow edge blade profile reduces food sticking
- Dishwasher-safe construction enables simple cleanup
- Stain- and rust-free blade construction
Cons
- 5.5-inch blade is shorter than standard 7-inch santoku knives
- Light 0.2-pound build lacks heft for dense cutting tasks
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight 0.2-pound knife for detailed prep work.
- You need a compact 5.5-inch hollow edge blade for slicing and mincing.
- You prefer dishwasher-safe cutlery for fast maintenance.
Skip if
- You prefer a standard 7-inch or longer santoku blade.
- You want a heavier knife to cut through dense ingredients.
Verdict: HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku delivers a compact, 0.2-pound design suited for precise slicing and low-effort dishwasher cleanup. It serves you well if you prioritize quick maneuverability over blade length.
Victorinox Fibrox 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife
Best for: lightweight everyday slicing with a non-slip grip
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7 in
- Knife Type
- Santoku Knife
- Blade Material
- Swiss stainless steel
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11.7 × 1.89 × 0.71 inches
View on Amazon: Victorinox Fibrox 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Victorinox Fibrox 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku is a Swiss-made prep knife designed for slicing meat, fruit, and vegetables. Its 7-inch Swiss stainless steel blade features a fluted edge to reduce food drag during prep work. Weighing 4.16 ounces, this knife pairs a lightweight build with an ergonomic, non-slip handle. It gives you balanced, nimble control if you want a reliable everyday santoku for fast kitchen cutting tasks.
Pros
- Fluted edge blade helps food release during slicing
- Lightweight Swiss stainless steel build at 4.16 ounces
- Ergonomic, non-slip handle design
- Swiss-made construction with lifetime warranty against defects
Cons
- Weight of 4.16 ounces provides less heft than heavier knives
- Only listed in a single black color option
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight 4.16-ounce santoku knife with a non-slip handle.
- You need a fluted Swiss stainless steel blade for routine food prep.
Skip if
- You prefer a knife with substantial heft for your cutting tasks.
- You want blade size options other than the 7-inch profile.
Verdict: Victorinox Fibrox 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku provides dependable Swiss stainless steel construction and a non-slip grip in an agile, 4.16-ounce package. Its fluted blade makes it an efficient tool for routine slicing and dicing.
Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife
Best for: precise slicing with minimal food adhesion
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7"
- Knife Type
- Santoku Knife
- Blade Material
- VG-MAX steel
- Construction
- 68 layers of Damascus cladding
- Edge Angle
- 16-degree
View on Amazon: Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife gives you a 7-inch all-purpose Japanese blade built with a VG-MAX core and 68 Damascus cladding layers. Its hollow-ground indentations help release sliced food and reduce cutting friction. A 16-degree edge angle ensures sharp slicing across vegetables, fruits, and proteins. If you want a lightweight 0.6-pound prep knife with a D-shaped Pakkawood handle, this model fits your daily cutting routine.
Pros
- VG-MAX steel core supported by 68 layers of Damascus cladding
- Hollow-ground indentations along the blade face reduce friction
- Sharpened to an acute 16-degree cutting angle
- D-shaped Pakkawood handle supports both left and right hands
- Handcrafted in Japan with free sharpening and honing services included
Cons
- No blade sheath or protective storage cover listed
- 16-degree angle requires sharpeners calibrated for Japanese bevels
Good fit if
- You want a 7-inch hollow-edge blade crafted with layered Damascus steel.
- You prefer a lightweight 0.6-pound knife with a D-shaped wood handle.
- You slice produce and proteins that frequently stick to standard flat blades.
Skip if
- You prefer standard Western 20-degree edge angles for heavier kitchen tasks.
- You require an included storage sheath or blade guard in the box.
Verdict: Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife pairs a 16-degree VG-MAX blade with recessed hollows that keep sliced food moving off the steel. It is a precise, lightweight tool for detailed produce and protein prep.
HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-Inch Santoku Knife
Best for: lightweight forged hollow-edge prep work
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7"
- Knife Type
- Santoku Knife
- Blade Material
- German stainless steel
- Construction
- Forged
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-Inch Santoku Knife (paid link)
The HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-Inch Santoku Knife gives you a hollow-edge blade built from German stainless steel. Its forged bolster transitions directly into a curved triple-rivet handle fitted with a stainless steel endcap. Weighing 0.3 pounds, this knife brings you standard 7-inch santoku proportions with dishwasher-safe maintenance. It suits you if you want a forged hollow-edge knife for prep work without handling heavy cutlery.
Pros
- Forged bolster construction
- Fabricated from German stainless steel
- Dishwasher safe construction
- Curved triple-rivet handle with steel endcap
Cons
- Manufactured in China rather than Germany
- Weighs only 0.3 pounds for users preferring heft
Good fit if
- You want a forged bolster with a hollow-edge German steel blade.
- You prefer dishwasher-safe kitchen cutlery.
- You want a lightweight 7-inch santoku knife.
Skip if
- You prefer knives manufactured in Germany.
- You want a heavier forged blade.
Verdict: HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-Inch Santoku Knife pairs German stainless steel with forged bolster construction and a hollow edge. It delivers dependable cutting specs in a lightweight, dishwasher-safe design.
Mac Knife Chef Series 8-Inch Hollow Edge Knife
Best for: thin Japanese hollow edge slicing
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 8 in
- Knife Type
- Chef
- Blade Material
- Molybdenum steel, high carbon
- Handle Material
- Pakka wood
- Color
- Silver
View on Amazon: Mac Knife Chef Series 8-Inch Hollow Edge Knife (paid link)
The Mac Knife Chef Series 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef's Knife gives you an 8-inch blade built from rust-resistant high-carbon molybdenum steel. The 2mm blade thickness provides a slim profile, and the hollow edge design spans the cutting surface. Paired with a pakka wood handle and weighing 9.1 ounces, this Japanese knife suits you if you want a silver 8-inch chef knife with durable edge retention.
Pros
- Made in Japan with rust-resistant molybdenum high-carbon steel
- Thin 2mm blade profile
- Pakka wood handle construction
- Hollow edge design along the 8-inch blade
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe; hand wash recommended
- No blade sheath listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want an 8-inch Japanese knife made from molybdenum high-carbon steel.
- You prefer a thin 2mm blade with a pakka wood handle.
Skip if
- You want a dishwasher-safe kitchen knife.
- You prefer a blade shorter than 8 inches.
Verdict: Mac Knife Chef Series 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef's Knife pairs Japanese molybdenum steel with a 2mm blade and pakka wood handle. It gives you an 8-inch hollow edge tool built for edge retention and hand-wash care.
ZWILLING Pro 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife
Best for: compact prep requiring durable stainless steel
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 5.5-inch
- Knife Type
- Santoku
- Blade Material
- High-Carbon NO STAIN stainless steel
- Construction
- Forged
- Handle Material
- POM
View on Amazon: ZWILLING Pro 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife (paid link)
The ZWILLING Pro 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife provides a compact cutting option forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel. You get an ice-hardened FRIODUR hollow-edge blade designed to release food easily, paired with a curved bolster and a durable POM handle. Weighing 0.7 pounds, this 5.5-inch blade suits you if you want a mid-sized santoku that offers precision and control without the bulk of a longer knife.
Pros
- Forged from a single piece of high-carbon stainless steel
- Ice-hardened FRIODUR blade for durability and resilience
- Curved bolster designed for precision and comfortable cutting
- Resilient POM handle
Cons
- 5.5-inch blade offers less reach than standard 7-inch santokus
- Total weight of 0.7 pounds is relatively heavy for a compact knife
Good fit if
- You want a compact 5.5-inch blade for detailed cutting tasks.
- You prefer a forged stainless steel blade with a curved bolster.
- You want an ice-hardened blade with hollow indentations to reduce sticking.
Skip if
- You need a standard 7-inch or longer blade for large ingredients.
- You prefer an ultralight knife under 0.7 pounds.
Verdict: ZWILLING Pro 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife is a sturdy forged stainless steel option built with an ice-hardened blade and curved bolster. It is a dependable choice if you prioritize rigid durability in a shorter blade profile.
Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife
Best for: slip-resistant prep work requiring minimal blade drag
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7 in
- Knife Type
- Santoku
- Blade Material
- Stainless steel
- Construction
- Forged
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife combines a traditional Japanese blade shape with modern German manufacturing from Solingen. You get a 7-inch hollow-edge blade coated in diamond-like carbon, designed to increase steel surface hardness by 146 percent and reduce drag. Weighing under 0.4 pounds and measuring 12.05 inches overall, it includes a textured Hexagon Power Grip handle. This knife suits you if you want a non-slip grip and friction-reducing hollow indentations.
Pros
- DLC black coating increases stainless steel surface hardness by 146 percent
- Hexagon Power Grip handle provides a textured, non-slip hold
- Hollow edge indentations reduce surface friction while slicing
- Forged bolster balances the knife at a total weight under 0.4 pounds
Cons
- All-black DLC finish covers standard stainless steel appearance
- Flatter santoku profile offers less rocking motion than curved chef knives
Good fit if
- You want a 7-inch santoku with a hard DLC surface coating.
- You prefer a textured Hexagon Power Grip handle for slip resistance.
- You need a lightweight prep knife weighing less than 0.4 pounds.
Skip if
- You prefer a classic silver stainless steel blade without a black coating.
- You want a longer slicing blade exceeding 7 inches.
Verdict: Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife pairs German Solingen steel and a friction-reducing DLC coating with a textured non-slip handle. It gives you precise control and reduced sticking for vegetable, fish, and meat prep.
Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife
Best for: Ultralight everyday slicing and low-friction prep
- Edge Type
- Hollow Edge
- Blade Length
- 7 in
- Knife Type
- Santoku
- Blade Material
- Stainless steel
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11.7 × 1.89 × 0.71 inches
View on Amazon: Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife (paid link)
The Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife gives you a 7-inch stainless steel blade with a fluted Granton edge. At just 1.6 ounces, this lightweight tool cuts down on drag while reducing hand fatigue during repetitive slicing tasks. It features an ergonomic black handle and dishwasher-safe construction for simple everyday care. This knife suits you if you want a low-maintenance, ultra-lightweight hollow-edge blade for standard vegetable and meat preparation.
Pros
- Fluted Granton edge reduces friction and sticking during cuts
- Ultralight 1.6-ounce weight reduces hand strain
- Dishwasher-safe design allows fast cleanup
- Stainless steel blade offers corrosion resistance
Cons
- 1.6-ounce weight lacks the heft of forged alternatives
- Limited to a single black handle color option
Good fit if
- You want an ultralight 1.6-ounce kitchen knife.
- You prefer a dishwasher-safe stainless steel tool.
- You need a 7-inch fluted edge to prevent food sticking.
Skip if
- You prefer the balance and heft of a heavier forged blade.
- You need a blade size other than 7 inches.
Verdict: Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife pairs an ultralight 1.6-ounce build with a fluted Granton edge to minimize slicing drag. Its dishwasher-safe stainless steel construction makes it a practical, low-maintenance choice for daily prep.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife | Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri Knife | Mercer Culinary Renaissance 11-Inch Slicing Knife | Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife | Wüsthof Classic 6-Inch Hollow-Edge Chef's Knife | Mercer Culinary BPX 12-Inch Granton Edge Cimiter | Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife | HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku | Victorinox Fibrox 7-Inch Granton Santoku Knife | Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife | HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-Inch Santoku Knife | Mac Knife Chef Series 8-Inch Hollow Edge Knife | ZWILLING Pro 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife | Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife | Victorinox Swiss Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 7-Inch | 7 in | 11" | 7" | 6" | 12-Inch | 7" | 5 in | 7 in | 7" | 7" | 8 in | 5.5-inch | 7 in | 7 in |
| Knife Type | Santoku Knife | Nakiri | Slicing Knife | Santoku Knife | Chef's Knife | Cimiter | Santoku | Santoku | Santoku Knife | Santoku Knife | Santoku Knife | Chef | Santoku | Santoku | Santoku |
| Blade Material | High-carbon Japanese steel | High-carbon German steel | High-carbon German cutlery steel | High-carbon Japanese steel | High Carbon Stainless Steel | high-carbon German steel | High Carbon Stainless Steel | not specified | Swiss stainless steel | VG-MAX steel | German stainless steel | Molybdenum steel, high carbon | High-Carbon NO STAIN stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Construction | not specified | Precision-forged | Precision-forged | One-piece | Forged | precision-forged | Laser-cut stamped | not specified | not specified | 68 layers of Damascus cladding | Forged | not specified | Forged | Forged | not specified |
| Edge Type | Granton Edge | Granton, taper-ground | Granton Edge | Granton Edge | Hollow edge | Granton Edge | Hollow edge | Hollow edge | Fluted edge | Hollow Ground | Hollow Edge | Hollow edge | Hollow Edge | Hollow edge | Granton, fluted |
| Edge Angle | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 16-degree | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Blade Hardness | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 58-degree HRC | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Handle Material | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | glass reinforced nylon | Synthetic polypropylene | not specified | not specified | Pakkawood | not specified | Pakka wood | POM | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Black | Black | Granton Edge Slicing Knife | Blue | Black | Granton Edge Cimiter | Black | Solution | Black | Black | Black | Silver | Silver | Black | Black |
| Style | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | German | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Recommended Use | not specified | Vegetables | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 5 × 1 × 18 inches | 0.75 × 4.25 × 14.8 inches | 18.8 × 0.63 × 4.13 inches | 17.5 × 1 × 4.13 inches | 11.2 × 1.57 × 0.59 inches | 17 × 2 × 2 inches | 15.5 × 3.5 × 1 inches | 14.5 × 0.75 × 3.5 inches | 11.7 × 1.89 × 0.71 inches | 13 × 2.38 × 0.9 inches | 16.3 × 3.5 × 1 inches | 8 × 1 × 1 inches | 17 × 9.8 × 5.5 inches | 12.1 × 1.81 × 0.83 inches | 11.7 × 1.89 × 0.71 inches |
| Weight | 3.17 ounces | 8.4 ounces | 7.4 ounces | 5.6 ounces | 6.08 ounces | 4 ounces | 4.64 ounces | 3.2 ounces | 4.16 ounces | 9.6 ounces | 4.8 ounces | 9.1 ounces | 11.2 ounces | 6.35 ounces | 1.6 ounces |
| Size | 7" | 7" | 11" | 7" | 6-inch | 12" | 7" | 5.5" | 6.7" | 7" | 7" | 8" | 5.5" | 7" | 7" |
| Model | M22707 | M21067 | M23720 | M22707BL | 1040100216 | M13612 | 1025046017 | 17548-143 | 5.2523.17BK | DM0718 | 16908-181 | TH-80 | 38408-143 | 1061231317 | 6.8523.17B |
Is a Hollow Edge Worth It?
Hollow edge knives feature scalloped indentations along the blade face. These recessed pockets create gaps between the metal and food, reducing surface friction and preventing sliced ingredients from adhering to the steel. On santoku, nakiri, and slicing profiles, this design helps produce and meat separate smoothly during repeated cuts. The specification focuses strictly on food release and drag reduction across forged and stamped blades. It does not alter standard steel hardness, edge angle maintenance, or the physical balance of the knife.
Worth it if
- You frequently cut starchy vegetables or moist proteins that cling to flat blades.
- You want reduced surface friction during continuous slicing and chopping prep.
Skip it if
- You prefer standard flat-ground blades without recessed indentations.
- You do not experience food sticking issues with your current kitchen knives.
When you balance compact desk dimensions with switch specifications, you can evaluate each 60 mechanical keyboard using the same measurement standards.
How We Picked Hollow Edge Knives
To build this guide of 15 knives, we review published specifications, titles, and feature lists to verify an edge type of hollow edge. This design features small indentations along the blade to reduce food adhesion while you slice. A knife qualifies only when its listing explicitly states this feature. To keep your options clear, you see only one size or variant from each product family. We do not physically handle the knives.
The models are ordered with products in stock first, then by Amazon sales rank (better-selling products first). You can evaluate published measurements like blade length, overall weight, and blade material to select the best match for your prep work.
How to Choose Hollow Edge Knives
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Compare Blade Steel Types
Look at the blade metal specification to balance edge retention against durability. Japanese steels like VG-MAX or high-carbon alloys hold acute edges longer for fine vegetable prep, but they require cautious handling. German stainless steels provide higher toughness against chipping during repetitive board work and resist corrosion well. If you want specialized high-carbon Japanese steel with strong wear resistance, check models like the Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife. Choose standard stainless steel if you prefer tougher, low-maintenance metal for everyday kitchen tasks.
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Evaluate Blade Construction Methods
Check whether the knife specification lists forged or stamped construction. Forged knives are formed from heated steel blanks, typically resulting in an integrated bolster and heavier weight for stable chopping control. Stamped blades are cut directly from continuous steel sheets. This yields a much lighter tool that minimizes wrist fatigue during prolonged prep sessions. If you prefer a nimble, lightweight build without the substantial heft or rigidity of a forged bolster, review stamped alternatives like the Wüsthof Gourmet 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife. Match the build to your preferred cutting feel.
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Review Cutting Edge Angles
Blade bevel angles determine how easily the steel penetrates food and how durable the edge remains. Knives sharpened to an acute 10-degree angle deliver exceptionally sharp slicing through delicate proteins and produce, though they demand careful board technique. Standard blades ground to wider 16-degree profiles offer sturdier edges that withstand regular multi-ingredient chopping without micro-chipping. If you want an ultra-sharp cutting bevel for minimal resistance across precision cuts, consider the ZWILLING Four Star 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife with its 10-degree edge. Select wider angles for general daily durability.
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Check Cleaning and Upkeep
Upkeep instructions vary across handle materials and steel compositions. Many premium blades, especially those paired with natural wood or high-carbon formulations, strictly specify hand washing to avoid handle warping, blade pitting, or edge dulling. Other designs feature molded synthetic handles and stainless steel that permit automated cleaning. If your daily routine requires quick cleanup and you want dishwasher compatibility, inspect models like the HENCKELS Solution 5.5-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku. If you choose hand-wash-only cutlery, ensure you are willing to clean, dry, and store the knife immediately after each kitchen task.
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Inspect Blade Surface Coatings
Look at the blade finish to see if specialized treatments are present alongside the hollow indentations. Standard polished steel relies entirely on the scalloped granton pockets to release moisture-rich ingredients. Some modern designs add advanced surface coatings, such as diamond-like carbon, to further diminish surface drag and protect the underlying steel from abrasion. If you slice dense ingredients and want extra glide beyond standard steel hollows, check the Wüsthof Performer 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife with its DLC coating. Stick with bare polished steel if you prefer traditional blade upkeep.
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Consider Color Coded Handles
Examine the handle color options if you prep distinct food categories in a busy kitchen. Standard black handles blend with traditional cutlery sets, but colored grips serve practical separation purposes. Selecting distinct handle hues allows you to dedicate specific knives to raw seafood, poultry, or produce to prevent kitchen cross-contamination. If you want an assigned knife for dedicated seafood prep or an organized kitchen workflow, look at the Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-Inch Blue Santoku Knife. Choose standard neutral black grips if you do not track knives by color.
Frequently asked questions
Can you clean a hollow edge kitchen knife in the dishwasher?
You should check the specific manufacturer guidelines for your blade, as care requirements vary by model. For instance, the HENCKELS Forged Premio 7-inch Santoku is dishwasher safe. In contrast, the Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-inch Nakiri strictly requires hand washing to preserve its forged German steel. Hand washing any hollow edge knife protects the steel from harsh detergents and mechanical impact.
How much do hollow edge kitchen knives typically weigh?
Hollow edge knives range significantly in heft depending on blade construction and length. Among 15 compared models, weights range from lightweight options like the Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-inch Santoku at 3.17 ounces up to heavier forged models like the ZWILLING Pro 5.5-inch Santoku at 11.2 ounces. A heavier knife provides more downward mass, whereas lighter knives reduce hand fatigue during extended chopping sessions.
What cutting edge angles do hollow edge knives use?
Cutting edge angles vary based on manufacturer design and regional style. For example, the ZWILLING Four Star 7-inch Santoku knife features an acute 10-degree cutting edge, while Japanese profiles like the Shun Classic and Shun Sora santokus use 16-degree edges. More acute angles offer finer slicing precision, whereas wider bevel angles give you higher resistance against blade chipping during tough prep.
Do hollow edge kitchen knives feature protective blade coatings?
Most hollow edge knives feature exposed steel, but specialized models include dedicated surface treatments. The Wüsthof Performer 7-inch Santoku Knife uses a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating over Solingen steel to reduce surface friction. This black coating works alongside the hollow edge indentations to promote smooth gliding through dense vegetables, fish, and meats while you slice.
What handle materials are available on hollow edge knives?
Hollow edge knives use synthetic, polymer, or wooden handles depending on the series. The Mac Knife Chef Series 8-inch Knife uses a Pakka wood handle for balanced handling. In comparison, knives like the Mercer Culinary Millennia series feature textured non-slip grips, and the Shun Sora uses an agile polymer handle. You should match handle material to your preference for grip texture and maintenance.
How does blade thickness affect hollow edge knife performance?
Blade thickness influences slicing resistance and flexibility. Thin profiles, such as the 2mm molybdenum high-carbon steel blade on the Mac Knife Chef Series 8-inch Knife, produce minimal wedge resistance when cutting through firm produce. Thicker forged knives, such as the ZWILLING Pro 5.5-inch Santoku, offer a stiffer backbone and integrated bolster support for added durability when cutting denser foods.
Why do some hollow edge knives have color-coded handles?
Color-coded handles help you designate specific knives for separate food types to avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen. For example, the Mercer Culinary Millennia 7-inch Santoku comes in blue, which is commonly assigned to dedicated seafood preparation. Using distinct colored handles allows you to maintain organized food safety practices while preparing poultry, raw meat, produce, or fish.