8 Best Chef Knife Blanks to Buy in 2026

This 8-inch AUS-10 full tang blank delivers a rock-solid foundation for DIY knife makers who want professional-grade performance without the artisan price tag. The triple-layer forged steel construction with a high-carbon Japanese AUS-10 core achieves a 60+ HRC hardness, offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance—perfect for kitchen tools meant to last. What sets this blank apart is its clean, logo-free canvas, giving makers the freedom to imprint their own identity, a rare touch that speaks directly to craft purists and woodworkers who value authenticity over branding.

In real-world shaping and assembly, the blade’s balanced tang design fits seamlessly into a wide range of handle materials—from walnut to Micarta—without requiring complex jigs or tools. At 6.3 oz, it’s lightweight enough for precision work yet substantial enough to handle daily kitchen tasks once completed. The 13.5-inch overall length provides ample room for a three-pin ergonomic build, though users should note the edge comes in a pre-sharpened state that may need refinement depending on final use. While not as visually striking as Damascus variants, its sleek, minimalist profile is ideal for those prioritizing function and customization flexibility.

Compared to the more ornate KATSURA Damascus models, this AUS-10 three-layer blank positions itself as the go-to for beginners and intermediate builders who want reliability without distraction. It lacks the visual drama of layered steel but compensates with consistent performance and ease of handling during construction. For those stepping into blade crafting for the first time, this model offers the most balanced blend of quality, simplicity, and affordability—outperforming budget alternatives while costing significantly less than premium Damascus builds.

The hammered AUS-10 Gyuto blank from KATSURA elevates the standard knife-making experience with a striking blend of form and function. Its 50mm-wide blade profile offers superior food clearance and reduced friction during slicing, while the sand-blasted, hammered finish not only enhances visual appeal but also minimizes drag when cutting through dense ingredients. Built around a 60+ HRC AUS-10 steel core, this blank delivers exceptional edge retention and durability—making it a top contender for makers who want a kitchen-ready blade straight off the forge.

During assembly, the wide blade and full tang provide excellent stability when shaping handles, especially with thicker materials like stabilized wood or G10. The 6.2 oz weight ensures a nimble feel once completed, ideal for chefs who prefer agility over heft. The 13.5-inch overall length and three-pin design allow for ergonomic customization, though the blade’s width may require slightly larger handle slabs. One minor limitation is the lack of deeper bevel guidance, meaning users must carefully align the edge angle during final sharpening to maintain optimal performance.

When stacked against the standard AUS-10 blank, this hammered variant justifies its higher cost with superior aesthetics and enhanced slicing efficiency. While it doesn’t feature multi-layer Damascus steel, the textured finish gives it an artisan look that rivals far more expensive builds. It’s best suited for intermediate crafters who want a premium feel without the complexity of 67-layer steel—offering a sweet spot between performance, beauty, and build accessibility.

Don’t let the 5.25-inch blade fool you—this AUS-10V Damascus Santoku blank packs a punch in edge performance and material sophistication. The 61+ HRC vacuum-treated AUS-10V core, surrounded by 67 layers of high-carbon stainless steel, creates a blade that’s not only razor-sharp out of the box but engineered for extreme edge retention, rivaling professional kitchen cutlery. The ultra-wide 40mm blade enhances food release and chopping efficiency, making it a standout choice for makers who want a compact yet highly functional tool.

In practice, the smaller size makes it ideal for detailed work, peeling, or precision slicing—perfect for those crafting a specialty knife rather than an all-purpose chef’s blade. The 67-layer Damascus pattern is both beautiful and functional, adding structural resilience while resisting stains and corrosion. Despite its light 3.75 oz weight, the full tang ensures stability during handle mounting, though extra care is needed when shaping thinner slabs to avoid imbalance. The mosaic pin and included hardware make finishing touches seamless, rewarding detail-oriented builders.

Compared to the 8-inch Gyuto models, this Storm-V Santoku blank trades size for elite steel performance and visual drama. It’s the best pick for crafters focused on long-term cutting performance and high-end aesthetics in a smaller footprint. While it’s not suited for heavy-duty chopping, it outclasses other small blanks in sharpness and steel quality, offering a level of refinement that justifies its premium positioning.

The Kiritsuke Thunder-X blank is a masterpiece in motion—designed for makers who want to craft a knife that’s as much art as it is tool. With an 8-inch blade, 50mm width, and 67-layer Damascus construction, this blank offers the rare fusion of Japanese elegance and Western heft, making it ideal for those who appreciate the kiritsuke’s hybrid role between chef’s knife and slicer. The Thunder-X patterned steel isn’t just eye-catching; it adds structural integrity and resistance to lateral stress during deep cuts.

During build testing, the large 4.5-inch handle area allowed for generous ergonomic shaping, especially with contoured or layered materials. At 6.5 oz, it’s the heaviest in the lineup, which translates to powerful, controlled cuts once finished—but may feel bulky for smaller hands. The full tang and three-pin setup ensure durability, while the lack of branding keeps the focus on the maker’s craftsmanship. One caveat: the wide blade demands precise handle alignment to prevent torque during use.

Against other KATSURA models, this Thunder-X Kiritsuke blank stands as the pinnacle of artistic and functional ambition. It’s more specialized than the Gyuto or Santoku, better suited for experienced makers aiming to create a showpiece kitchen tool. While it commands the highest price, it delivers unmatched visual depth and build versatility, making it a worthwhile investment for artisans who value legacy-level design over mass practicality.

This 7-ply 440C chef blank punches well above its budget price, offering a solid entry point into custom knife making without sacrificing structural integrity. The triple-layer 316L stainless cladding protects the 440C high-carbon core, which is heat-treated to 60 HRC—delivering reliable edge retention and rust resistance for a beginner-friendly build. While it lacks the visual fireworks of 67-layer steel, its clean, understated Damascus pattern appeals to those who prefer minimalist, functional design over ornate flair.

In real-world handling, the blade feels balanced and sturdy during shaping, with a full tang that supports a variety of handle styles. The 8-inch length and standard thickness make it adaptable for both kitchen and utility builds. However, the 440C steel, while durable, doesn’t match the long-term sharpness of AUS-10 or AUS-10V—requiring more frequent maintenance. It’s also worth noting the edge comes pre-ground but may need re-beveling for optimal performance.

When compared to KATSURA’s AUS-10 models, this blank trades premium steel for affordability, making it ideal for first-time makers or those testing new handle designs. It doesn’t offer the same refinement or longevity, but for the price, it delivers surprising value and build confidence. For hobbyists who want to learn the craft without risking a high-end blank, this is the most accessible gateway into custom knife making.

The 6.5-inch Petty Utility blank is a precision-focused gem for makers who appreciate small-scale craftsmanship. Built with the same 60+ HRC AUS-10 core and 67-layer Damascus steel as its larger siblings, it delivers full-tier performance in a compact form, ideal for paring, peeling, or delicate prep work. The 67-layer pattern is tightly woven and visually striking, making even a small knife feel like a luxury piece once finished.

At 5.15 oz and 12.25 inches overall, it’s perfectly balanced for detailed handling, and the three-pin tang allows for secure, ergonomic grips—even with slender handle designs. The included handcrafted gift box adds unexpected value, making it an excellent choice for gifting to fellow crafters or beginners. While its size limits heavy chopping, it excels in tasks requiring control and finesse, much like a high-end paring knife.

Compared to the 8-inch Gyuto blanks, this Petty Utility model trades reach for nimbleness and artistry, making it the best small-blade option in the lineup. It offers the same premium materials as higher-end KATSURA models but in a more approachable size—perfect for those building a complete custom set or focusing on detail work. For its class, it delivers unmatched refinement and presentation.

The JNR Traders 7-inch forged Damascus blank is a pattern-first powerhouse, designed for makers who want a bold, ladder-style Damascus aesthetic without compromising on structural integrity. The 15N20 and 1095 high-carbon steel fusion creates a distinctive, high-contrast ladder pattern that stands out even before polishing—ideal for those building showpiece knives. At 2.5mm thick and 56±2 HRC, it’s softer than AUS-10 models but offers greater toughness and easier heat treatment for custom forging.

In real-world builds, the thin, full-tang design allows for lightweight, agile final knives, perfect for precision slicing. The 12-degree edge bevel suggests it’s pre-ground for sharpness, though users may need to refine it post-assembly. One limitation is the lower hardness, which means more frequent sharpening compared to 60+ HRC blades—especially in heavy kitchen use. Still, for custom knife artists, the forged texture and raw character are worth the trade-off.

Against other Damascus blanks, this JNR Traders model wins on visual impact and forging authenticity, appealing to traditionalists who value hand-forged grain over uniformity. While it doesn’t match KATSURA’s steel performance, it offers greater artistic expression and forging depth—making it the top pick for craftsmen focused on pattern and process over pure kitchen utility.