Discover the 10 Best Chef Knives Perfect for Small Hands

Discovering the right chef’s knife can make your cooking better. It helps you cut food just the way you want and makes it easier to do all the tasks when making a delicious family meal. It’s important that the knife feels good in your hand, but what if your hands are smaller? We’ve made a great list of awesome chef knives, like the Sun Classic 6” Chef Knife, designed for people with smaller hands who want to create amazing food.

10 Best Chef Knives for Small Hands

1. Shun Classic 6’’ Chef Knife – Editor’s Choice

The Shun Classic knife is our favorite because it has everything you need. It has good stability, beneficial features, high-grade materials, and lots of optimistic reviews. This knife is great for cooking because it’s multipurpose, and it’s the right size for informal use.

Shun Classic 6’’ Chef Knife Specifications

Company Shun
Price $145-$155
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryJapan
Guaranteelifetime 
Most appropriate forA slender handlebar and lightweight, you can practice this knife for almost any ingredients with no taking a lot of hand power
Total Knife Size 11.63/29.54 (In/cm)
Knife Weight 4.7/133.24 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 2.5 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialVG-MAX Steel
ElasticityElastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDouble Bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle16° per side
HRC 61 (±1)
TextureLopsided, ergonomic, secure
MaterialPakkaWood
ColorWood, Silver

About the Knife

This knife should not be placed in a dishwasher. The metal can handle water, but it shouldn’t be open to water all the time. However the Shun Classic may look costly, it’s made of really good materials and is manufactured very well. If you take upkeep of it, it will last for many ages. This knife comes with a slim handle and is not too weighty. 

This makes it easier to cook without hurting your wrist or struggling to hold the knife for precise cuts. The knife-edge is very sharp and stays sharp, and the stability of the knife is just right. You can practice it for a lot of different things, from cutting lamb jaws to making salads of your favored vegetables. The Shun Classic is a multipurpose knife.

Maintenance 

This blade can’t go in the dishwasher. The metal can handle water that’s not too warm, but it’s not worth it to place it in water all the time. It’s better to rinse this knife by hand and make sure it’s fully dry before placing it back in its cover.

Advantages

  • A thinner handlebar provides good hand grip 
  • Brilliant blade direction for sharper slices
  • Very well-stable to uphold control

Disadvantages

  • Very high price spectrum
  • Edge quality can be stimulating for delicate hands
  • Thinner knife edge needs more upkeep


2. Dalstrong 7’’ Chef Knife Shogun Series – Best Damascus Chef Knife for Small Hands 

We decided to add a Damascus blade because it stays sharp for a long time. Luckily, we found a 7-inch Dalstrong version that is perfect for people with delicate hands or those who prefer a gentler grip.

Dalstrong 7’’ Chef Knife Shogun Series Specifications

Company Dalstrong
Price$115-$125
StabilityWell stable
Built up CountryChina
GuaranteeFull money-return and a lifetime guarantee 
Most appropriate forfor almost any item like vegetables, meat, or fruit you are using
Total Knife Size 11.5/29.21 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 8.1/229.63 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Length 7 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 1.4 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialJapanese AUS-10V Steel
PlasticitySlightly elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDual Bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle8-12°
HRC 62+
TextureThe ergonomic handlebar shape is plotted for higher hand grip, swiftness, and comfort
MaterialG10
ColorBlack

About the Knife

Immediately, you’ll see that the knife has a pointed blade. It cuts through ingredients like butter, no matter what you’re preparing for a meal. Although the blade isn’t as tilted as our favorite, the handle’s shape and how the knife is made give you really good control and flexibility for handling more difficult tasks. This Damascus Chef Knife of this size is a great deal for the price. It gives you good value and a long-lasting knife for all your cooking needs.

Maintenance 

Don’t use the dishwasher for this knife. It’s good to rinse it by hand with some detergent in lukewarm water, then let it air dry fully before placing it away. To have the blade strong, remember to grease it routinely.

Advantages

  • Prepared from robust Damascus steel
  • A pointed blade lets smooth cuts
  • The handlebar is aimed for enhanced agility

Disadvantages

  • The case can overcast the knife edge if not used properly
  • Food can stick to the knife-edge if not lubricated habitually
  • Not ideal for swaying motions

3. Zwilling Professional “S” 6’’ Chef’s Knife – Best German Chef’s Knife for Small Hands

A sturdy knife from Germany that’s good for cutting, slicing, and preparing any meal you want. It has a thick part near the handle and a classic blade shape.

Zwilling Professional “S” 6’’ Chef’s Knife Specifications

Company Zwilling
Price $130-$140
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryGermany
GuaranteeLimited 
Most appropriate forAn multifaceted blade in a customary form that lets high swiftness
Total Knife Size 11.81/30 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 7.52/213.19 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 0.79 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialStainless Steel
ElasticitySlightly elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDual Bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle15° per side
HRC 55-58
TextureErgonomic
MaterialPolymer
ColorBlack

About the Knife

Some people might not like the boring back part of the knife, but that’s exactly what makes us love this knife. The full support and dull back part let you rock the knife more, which is perfect for regular cooking tasks with a chef’s knife. This knife is an easier material than others we have, but it’s prepared from stainless steel, so it’s cooler to sharpen and take caution. This means you can practice it for many centuries in your home kitchen, particularly if you’re a chef who likes a smaller knife-edge to show your catering skills.

Maintenance 

Stainless steel is really easy to clean, but it’s not a good notion to rinse this knife in a dishwasher, even though it’s officially possible. Just use some dish detergent and lukewarm water, just like you clean your pans and containers. Make sure to dry it by hand to prevent any water damage.

Advantages

  • Outstanding customary design for multifaceted use
  • Full reinforce offers better hand control
  • Material is easy to sustain

Disadvantages

  • Extreme high price
  • More stiff
  • Edge needs to be hone

4. Henckels Classic 6’’ Chef’s Knife – Best Budget Chef Knife for Small Hands

Henckels Classic 6’’ Chef’s Knife Specifications

Company Henckels
Price$48-$90
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountrySpain
GuaranteeLimited 
Most appropriate forall around knife-edge at a sensible price for  almost any item
Total Knife Size 12.99/32.99 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 11.2/317.51 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 1.5 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialGerman stainless steel
ElasticityNot so elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeV-edge
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle15° per side
HRC 55-58
TextureComfy, Ergonomic
MaterialPolymer
ColorBlack

About the Knife

If you’re bothered about receiving a good knife for your smaller hands, you’re in the exact place. This knife has a smaller blade, making it easy to handle. The blade is slender, so you need to be watchful while using it to escape any injury. It might not be elastic as compared to some other knives, but seeing its reasonable price, it’s worth it. We trust this is one of the finest chef knives below $100. Many of our readers will appreciate the overall versatility of this German-made knife.

Maintenance 

This knife is different because you can rinse it in a dishwasher, unlike most chef’s knives. The handlebar is made of polymer, and the knife-edge is stainless steel. This blend makes sure that the knife won’t grow oxidized or have pieces of food stuck to it. However it’s harmless for the dishwasher, it’s a decent idea to dry it by hand after washing to avoid any harm from water in the long run.

Advantages

  • Reasonable price range
  • A well-stable knife-edge for learners
  • Lightweight manufacture for easy agility

Disadvantages

  • The thinner knife-edge needs more maintenance
  • Not ideal for bigger parts of meat or vegetable
  • The incomplete bristle can be a slight irregular on fingers

5. Wüsthof 6″ Cook’s Knife – Best Chef Knife Under $200 for Small Hands


The cool double support and awesome design make this knife stand out as one of the best-looking ones on our list. It gives you a lot of control for cutting things exactly how you want, depending on the size of your hand.

Wüsthof 6″ Cook’s Knife Specifications

Company Wüsthof
Price $165-$175
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryGermany
GuaranteeLifetime 
Most appropriate forThose who like a polished design and really comfy handle grip
Total Knife Size 10.59/26.9 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 6.1/172.93 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 1 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialStainless Steel
ElasticityNot elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDual bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle14°
HRC 58
FeelComfy, Ergonomic
MaterialEnduring synthetic material
ColorBlack

About the Knife

We wanted to add a knife to our list that not only looks nice but is also really useful, like the other chef knives we talked about. The Wusthof knife is just what we were looking for. It has a 6-inch blade made from good quality German stainless steel. The handle is not real but made from synthetic material, and it has a bit of texture to help you hold it better. 

The blade is made using something called PEtec, which usually means it’s super sharp and stays sharp for a long time. When you first practice it, be cautious because it might be harsher than you suppose. This knife is generally good to go as soon as you practice it. It’s certainly the best multifaceted knife for cooks with small hands, particularly if you’re considering chef knives below $200.

Maintenance 

Don’t put this knife in a dishwasher. Wash and dry the knife by hand to preserve it in good form, and be very cautious because it’s really sharp and can be risky if you’re not watchful.

Advantages

  • Unique design is appealingly
  • Long-term grip material that increases agility
  • Prepared with PEtec for greater sharpness

Disadvantages

  • Costly for a beginner’s chef 
  • A little heavier as compared to others on our listing
  • The sharpness rises the injury risk 

6. Dalstrong 6’’ Chef Knife Gladiator Series


We already talked about Dalstrong knives before, but this one has a more classic design and is priced more reasonably. It’s a good choice for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money, especially if they’re not sure about using a smaller knife.

Dalstrong 6’’ Chef Knife Gladiator Series Specifications

Company Dalstrong
Price$55-$65
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryChina
GuaranteeLifetime 
Most appropriate fora learner’s blade created on price and design, but do the work well
Total Knife Length 12/30.48 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 9.31/263.93 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Length 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 2 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialHC German Steel
ElasticityElastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDual bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle16-18° each side
HRC 56+
Texturehandlebar shape for high comfort, control and movement
MaterialPakkawood
ColorBlack

About the Knife

Looking at the steel it’s made of and how tall the blade is, this chef knife is surprisingly flexible. It’s a good choice for people who enjoy cutting and then putting the ingredients into a bowl. It’s not as overpriced as the first one on our list, so it’s a decent choice. We really recommend beginners to think about getting this knife. The expense and the worth of the blade make it a worthy deal if you don’t want to expend too much.

Maintenance 

This knife isn’t right for the dishwasher, and it’s a great mode to acquire how to maintain high-grade knives if you’re new to using them. You should rinse it by hand in deep water with a slight soap. Also, remember to apply some oil on the knife-edge so that food doesn’t stick to it.

Advantages

  • Good price range over the quality
  • Extended blade permits extra prep choices
  • Outstanding material for a long-term edge

Disadvantages

  • Blade requires honing more frequently 
  • Engrossed handlebar is not pretty a blush
  • Handlebar can get slimy if too damp

7. Victorinox 6’’ Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife – Best Chef Knife Under $50 for Small Hands

If you’re on an actually low financial plan, this is the best blade for you. It has great sharpness and can be practiced for numerous things, but it has a unique shape than most knives.

Victorinox 6’’ Fibrox Pro Chef’s Knife Specifications

Company Victorinox
Price$25-$40
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountrySwitzerland
GuaranteeLifetime 
Most appropriate forsmaller ingredients but a good starter into chef knives as a budget friendly
Total Knife Size 10.5/26.67 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 2.8/79.38 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 0.7 (Inches)
Forged or stampedStamped
MaterialTStainless Steel
ElasticitySlightly elastic
TangPartial tang
EdgeDual bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle15° per side
HRC Unknown
FeelErgonomic, non-slippery
MaterialThermoplastic elastomers
ColorBlack

About the Knife

This chef knife is inexpensive, but it’s not a top-tier blade. It’s good for small homes or apartments where you just requisite a decent knife for simple chores, not for pro-level cooking. The blade is sharp enough for basic use, and the handlebar is slip-resistant for security. It’s also minor, making it a good high-quality for persons with smaller hands. Generally, it’s a sensible option and one of our beloved chef knives under $50.

Maintenance 

Totally, feel open to wash this in the dishwasher with no worries, and you can dry it in the air later. Just be a bit watchful when taking it out, as it has a really sharp edge.

Advantages

  • Good price range
  • Amazingly easy to uphold
  • Fits well into a blade case or magnetic stripe

Disadvantages

  • Not customary chef blade contour
  • A shorter knife-edge lessens the adaptability
  • Fewer knot cutting 

8. WÜSTHOF Classic 6″ Chef’s Knife – Best Chef Knife Under $150 for Small Hands

An actually good knife with a handlebar design that makes sure you can move it simply when you’re making food, and you don’t have to worry about it tripping from your hand.

WÜSTHOF Classic 6″ Chef’s Knife Specifications

Company Wüsthof
Price$120-$140
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryGermany
GuaranteeLifetime
Most appropriate forIdeal blade for the price with a customary design that gives versatile agility
Total Knife Size 10.71/27.20 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 6.4/181.44 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6.3 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 0.5 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialStainless Steel
ElasticitySlightly elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeDual bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle14° per side
HRC 58
TextureErgonomic
MaterialPolymer
ColorBlack

About the Knife

We’re trying to figure out where to place this Wustholf knife because it’s really worthy compared to others. The blade is a bit lengthier, and it has all the good things about German engineering. But it’s not that sharp as we would like it to be. Yet, it’s an excellent choice for persons who know how significant a well-designed chef knife is and want to increase one to their kitchen crockery. That’s why we included it in our list of the best chef knives below $150. It’s not the unconditional best, but it’s not the poorest either. 

Maintenance 

Certainly, you can precisely use the dishwasher for this, but we endorse washing it by hand in lukewarm, foamy water and making sure it’s fully dry before placing it away. The blade material and manufacture are better suitable for hand washing.

Advantages

  • The grip is wonderful
  • Brilliant sharpness and quality of material
  • Ideal present choice for family or friend 

Disadvantages

  • Some complaints about bad delivery packing
  • Less exterior area for full prep swiftness
  • Need for special sharpening

9. Shun Sora 6’’ Chef Knife – Best Santoku Chef Knife for Small Hands

Remarkable knife shape and design motivated by the customary Japanese Santoku style, perfect for cutting, choping, and slicing.

Shun Sora 6’’ Chef Knife Specifications

Company Shun
Price$90-$115
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountryJapan
GuaranteeLimited lifetime 
Most appropriate forA good versatile choice in the Sanoku chic for swift prep work
Total Knife Size 11.5/29.21 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 4.3/121.90 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 6 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 1.5 (Inches)
Forged or stampedForged
MaterialStainless Steel
ElasticityNot elastic
TangFull tang
EdgeSan Mai edge
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle16°
HRC 60-61
TextureErgonomic – safe grip and stability
MaterialTextured TPE
ColorMetallic

About the Knife

If you haven’t tried using Santoku chef knives earlier, now’s a great chance to do so. The reason it’s not at the top of our list is because the Santoku chic style might take some getting used to. Picture a chef knife that appears like it came from a Kurosawa film, where samurai are busy making all varieties of dishes. That’s why it’s bigger than other knives. This blade is multipurpose and can be used for nearly any dish, thanks to its numerous angles and great surface area that make it cool to handle ingredients.

Maintenance 

Don’t ever place this blade in the dishwasher. It’s designed with a distinct edge that needs to be washed by hand and dried, with some greasing consistently. You won’t have to hone the blade too frequently.

Advantages

  • Highly adaptable with a huge surface area
  • Outstanding sharpness also food does not stick to
  • Customary Santoku design

Disadvantages

  • Thinner knife-edge involves more upkeep
  • Not the greatest feature from the Shun series

10. Victorinox Fibrox Pro 5’’ Chef’s Knife

This blade is the smallest one on our list, which means it’s flawless for chefs with smaller hands or those who are delicate to using larger blades. And above, it comes at a really decent price.

Victorinox Fibrox Pro 5’’ Chef’s Knife

Company Victorinox
Price $20-$30
StabilityWell stable
Built-up CountrySwitzerland
GuaranteeLifetime 
Most appropriate forGood knife-edge angle for functioning with multifaceted ingredients
Total Knife Size 10/25.40 (In/cm)
Cleaver Weight 3.21/91.00 (Oz/Gr)
Blade Size 5 (Inches)
Blade Elevation 0.75 (Inches)
Forged or stampedStamped
MaterialStainless Steel
ElasticitySlightly elastic
TangPartial tang
EdgeDual bevel
Straight or SerratedStraight
angle15°
HRC Not known
TextureSlip resistance and lessens hand and wrist weakness
MaterialFibrox
ColorBlack

About the Knife

This knife is excellent if you have fragile wrists, small hands, or chronic pain. The handlebar is designed really fit to make sure it doesn’t slip-up or cause mishaps. The knife is also lightweight, so it won’t set too much heaviness on your arm. However, it’s vital to know that this is an engraved blade, which means it’s a bit lesser in quality, but it’s lighter and smaller. Although this is a trade-off, it’s a great choice for chefs with smaller hands, particularly seeing its affordable price. 

Maintenance

Just hone it from time to time, and you can even rinse it in the dishwasher.

Advantages

  • Good design for fragile wrists
  • Superb grip and feel
  • Reasonable price

Disadvantages

  • Engraved blade with a single partial tang
  • A smaller blade limits ingredient practice
  • Need for honing occasionally 

Things to Consider When Buying a Chef Knife for Small Hands – Buying Guide


We made a short guide to benefit people with smaller hands who choose the right chef knife swiftly. Mainly, you should pick a knife edge that feels good for you. Your ease and confidence in the kitchen are the most important things for making tasty meals. Still, there are a few things to pay devotion to that can make it easier for you to select when you’re looking to purchase a knife next time.

Blade and Handle Length

If your hands are smaller, it’s better to use a shorter blade. We endorse something with a blade size between 5 to 7 inches and a good balance. Don’t pick a knife that’s too light except you have wrist issues, as it might not slice efficiently. The idea is to have a blade that’s long enough to handle your commonly used materials without placing too much strain on your hand while you’re preparing food.

How to Choose the Knife Length

The size of the knife should match your body. If you’re a regular-sized person, a knife between 7 to 10 inches is good. If you’re shorter or have smaller hands, aim for a knife between 5 to 7 inches. For more accuracy, measure the distance from your wrist to your elbow and find a knife with a similar length.

The Handle Fell and Grip

Chef knives are made to be easy to use because you use them for a lot of food preparation. That’s why it’s important to have a handle with some texture to prevent slipping while you work, and a decent bolster for comfort. This helps avoid putting too much strain on your hand, wrist, or forearm.

Purpose of Knife

Each professional level knife has a definite purpose. For instance, a meat cleaver is made for slicing through thick bits of meat or vegetables, and a boning knife is flexible enough to navigate around animal bones. A chef’s knife is designed to be versatile, offering slicing, chopping, mincing, and agile handling when preparing ingredients for meals.

Conclusion

This list of chef knives for smaller hands will be truly helpful. There are lots of good choices with different sizes, sharpness levels, maintenance needs, and uses. They’re prepared for a wide range of people, so you should be able to catch one that ensembles your kitchen. We really endorse checking out our favorite – the Shun Classic 6” Chef Knife. It fits most hands really well and has all the qualities you’d want in a great chef knife.

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