Imagine carving a perfectly roasted turkey, each slice falling away effortlessly. Or maybe you’re shaping a delicate roast beef for sandwiches. A good slicing knife makes these tasks a dream, not a chore. But with so many knives out there, how do you pick the one that’s truly best? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices, and you might wonder if you’re spending your money on something that will actually help you in the kitchen.
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They put knives to the test, so you don’t have to. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes their recommended slicing knives stand out. You’ll learn what to look for, what features truly matter, and which knives they’ve crowned champions. Get ready to discover the secret to effortless slicing and upgrade your kitchen game!
Our Top 5 Slicing Knife America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Slicing Knife America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Cutluxe Brisket Knife – 12″ Carving & Slicing Knife for Meat & BBQ – Razor Sharp German Steel
Rating: 8.5/10
The Cutluxe Brisket Knife – a 12-inch carving and slicing knife – is built for serious meat lovers and BBQ enthusiasts. This knife boasts a razor-sharp blade made from premium German steel, designed to make slicing through tough cuts of meat feel effortless. Its comfortable, full tang handle ensures a secure grip, making it a joy to use for long carving sessions.
What We Like:
- It slices and carves meat like a dream.
- The German steel blade stays sharp for a long time.
- The handle is comfy and gives you a really good grip.
- It’s made to last and won’t rust easily.
- A protective sheath is included for safe storage.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can buy it without worry.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 12-inch size might be a bit large for some kitchens.
- While it’s built tough, it does require proper care to maintain its sharpness.
This Cutluxe Brisket Knife is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves to prepare and serve delicious meats. You can trust its quality and performance for all your carving needs.
2. MAIRICO Brisket Slicing Knife – Ultra Sharp Premium 11-inch Stainless Steel Carving Knife for Slicing Roasts
Rating: 9.3/10
The MAIRICO Brisket Slicing Knife is an 11-inch carving knife made of premium stainless steel. It’s designed to be ultra-sharp, making it easy to slice through all sorts of foods. Whether you’re cutting a big roast or a delicate fruit, this knife aims to make the job simple and clean.
What We Like:
- It slices through meat like butter with its super sharp blade.
- The knife feels good in your hand and is easy to control.
- It’s long enough to handle big cuts of meat, like brisket and turkey.
- You can use it for more than just meat; it’s great for fruits and veggies too.
- The company is confident you’ll love it and offers a way to return it if you’re not happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s versatile, some might prefer a knife with a slightly different blade shape for specific tasks.
- The premium quality might come with a higher price tag compared to basic knives.
This MAIRICO knife is a fantastic tool for anyone who enjoys cooking and serving perfectly sliced meats and other foods. It offers a great balance of sharpness, comfort, and versatility for your kitchen.
3. Farberware Edgekeeper 8-Inch Slicing Knife with Self-Sharpening Blade Cover
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the Farberware Edgekeeper 8-Inch Slicing Knife, your new best friend in the kitchen. This knife makes preparing your favorite meals a breeze. It’s designed for all your cutting needs, from slicing roasts to chopping veggies. The magic lies in its special blade cover, which keeps the knife sharp every time you use it. The high-quality steel blade stays sharp, and the comfortable handle makes it easy to hold. Cleaning is simple too!
What We Like:
- The self-sharpening blade cover is a game-changer, keeping the knife consistently sharp without extra effort.
- The high-carbon stainless steel blade is strong and holds its razor-sharp edge, making slicing effortless.
- The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during use.
- It’s an essential tool for everyday food prep, handling chopping, dicing, and mincing with ease.
- Care is straightforward; just hand wash and dry immediately.
What Could Be Improved:
- The built-in sharpener might wear down over a very long period of heavy use, potentially requiring replacement of the cover.
- While great for general slicing, it might not be the ideal choice for highly specialized tasks requiring extreme precision or flexibility.
The Farberware Edgekeeper 8-Inch Slicing Knife is a smart addition to any kitchen. It delivers sharp performance and comfort, making meal prep more enjoyable.
4. Fox Valley Traders Knife with Adjustable Slicing Guide by Chef’s Pride
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of uneven slices? The Fox Valley Traders Knife with Adjustable Slicing Guide by Chef’s Pride solves that problem. This knife makes slicing easy and precise. You can adjust the thickness of your slices with a simple turn of a knob. It’s designed to cut through a variety of foods, from juicy meats to fresh produce. Even thicker items up to 1 inch wide are no match for its sharp, serrated blade.
What We Like:
- The adjustable slicing guide lets you choose the perfect thickness for your food.
- The razor-sharp serrated blade cuts cleanly through many different foods.
- It’s great for slicing meats, fruits, and vegetables up to 1 inch thick.
- The included safety fork holds your food securely while you slice.
- The knife is made of durable stainless steel and plastic.
- It comes from Silver Star Brands, a company known for quality and innovation.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 12-inch length might be a bit long for some smaller hands or kitchens.
- While versatile, it may not be the best tool for extremely delicate items requiring ultra-fine slicing.
This knife is a fantastic addition to any kitchen for anyone who values consistent, easy slicing. Its thoughtful design and sharp performance make meal preparation a breeze.
5. Victorinox Fibrox Pro 12-Inch Slicing Knife with Granton Edge and Black Handle
Rating: 8.8/10
The Victorinox Fibrox Pro 12-Inch Slicing Knife with Granton Edge and Black Handle is a kitchen tool that makes slicing a breeze. Its long, thin blade is super sharp. It’s designed to cut through almost anything with ease. Think roast meats, fluffy cakes, or even stacked sandwiches. This knife is built for performance.
What We Like:
- The razor-sharp edge makes slicing effortless.
- The Granton blade design is clever. It creates air pockets that stop food from sticking. This means less friction and smoother cutting.
- It’s incredibly versatile. You can use it for meats, cakes, sandwiches, and more.
- A leading gourmet magazine highly recommends it. This means it’s been tested and proven to be great.
- It’s expertly crafted in Switzerland, a country known for quality tools.
- Victorinox offers a lifetime warranty. This covers any problems with the materials or how it was made.
- The black handle is comfortable and provides a good grip.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, a 12-inch blade might feel a bit long for smaller kitchens or tasks.
- While durable, the Fibrox handle, though functional, might not have the premium feel some users prefer.
This knife is a fantastic investment for anyone who loves to cook or entertain. It’s a reliable tool that will serve you well for years to come.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Mastering Your Slicing Knife
Choosing the right slicing knife can make a huge difference in your kitchen. It’s the tool that carves through roasts, slices delicate fish, and even cuts perfect bread. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many knives, and we’ve learned what makes a great one. This guide will help you find the best slicing knife for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a slicing knife, keep these important features in mind:
- Blade Length: Most slicing knives are between 8 and 15 inches long. Longer blades are better for big cuts of meat, like a whole turkey or ham. Shorter blades work well for smaller tasks or if you have less counter space.
- Blade Shape: A long, narrow blade is ideal. This shape helps you slice cleanly without tearing. Some blades have a rounded tip, while others have a pointed one. A pointed tip can be useful for getting into tight spots.
- Handle Comfort: You’ll be holding this knife a lot. The handle should feel good in your hand. Look for a handle that offers a good grip, even when wet. It should also be balanced with the blade.
- Weight and Balance: A good slicing knife feels balanced. The weight should feel right in your hand, not too heavy or too light. This balance makes it easier to control the knife and slice smoothly.
Important Materials
The materials used to make a slicing knife affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Blade Material:
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material. It’s strong and doesn’t rust easily. High-carbon stainless steel is even better because it holds an edge longer.
- German Steel: Known for its durability and sharpness. Knives made from this steel are often a good investment.
- Japanese Steel: Often sharper and harder than German steel. They can be more prone to chipping if not cared for properly.
- Handle Material:
- Wood: Looks beautiful but needs careful cleaning and drying.
- Plastic/Composite: Durable and easy to clean.
- Metal: Offers a sleek look and good durability.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a slicing knife great or not so great.
- Sharpness: A sharp knife is a safe knife. It cuts easily without slipping. A dull knife forces you to press harder, which can lead to accidents.
- Edge Retention: This means how long the blade stays sharp. Good quality steel holds its edge for a long time. You won’t have to sharpen it as often.
- Durability: A well-made knife will last for years. It won’t bend or break easily. Look for strong construction.
- Ease of Cleaning: Knives that are easy to clean are more hygienic and last longer. Avoid knives with nooks and crannies where food can get stuck.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a knife feels and performs in your hand matters.
- For Home Cooks: If you slice a turkey for Thanksgiving or a roast for Sunday dinner, a good slicing knife is essential. It makes carving easy and looks impressive.
- For Bakers: Slicing bread, cakes, and pies becomes much simpler with the right knife. A long, thin blade can get through soft items without squishing them.
- For Entertaining: When you have guests, you want your food to look its best. A slicing knife helps you present beautiful, even slices of meat and other foods.
- Everyday Use: Even if you don’t cook large roasts often, a slicing knife can be handy for things like slicing large fruits or vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a slicing knife?
A: The main purpose of a slicing knife is to cut thin, even slices of cooked meats, poultry, and fish. It’s also great for carving roasts and slicing bread.
Q: How long should a slicing knife blade be?
A: Blade length usually ranges from 8 to 15 inches. Longer blades are best for large roasts, while shorter ones work for smaller tasks.
Q: What kind of steel is best for a slicing knife?
A: High-carbon stainless steel is a great choice. It’s strong, holds an edge well, and resists rust. German and Japanese steels are also highly regarded.
Q: Is a sharp knife really safer?
A: Yes, a sharp knife is much safer. It cuts through food easily, reducing the chance of the knife slipping.
Q: How do I clean a slicing knife?
A: Always wash your slicing knife by hand with warm, soapy water. Dry it immediately to prevent rust and damage. Never put it in the dishwasher.
Q: Can I use a slicing knife for chopping vegetables?
A: While you can, it’s not ideal. Slicing knives are designed for long, clean cuts. A chef’s knife is better for chopping vegetables.
Q: What is “edge retention”?
A: Edge retention is how long a knife’s blade stays sharp. Good quality steel has excellent edge retention, meaning you won’t need to sharpen it as often.
Q: How can I tell if a slicing knife is well-balanced?
A: Hold the knife in your hand. It should feel comfortable and balanced, not too heavy in the blade or the handle.
Q: Do I need a special knife for carving turkey?
A: A good slicing knife is perfect for carving turkey. Its long, thin blade helps you make clean, smooth slices.
Q: Where can I find reliable reviews for slicing knives?
A: Look for reviews from trusted sources like America’s Test Kitchen, reputable cooking magazines, and well-known chef websites. Reading user reviews can also be helpful.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!