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If you’re someone who loves to cook, you might agree that to remove the bone from the meat, you need a good boning knife on hand. A good boning knife is one that allows you to get close to the bone when you’re removing the meat, ensuring that no meat is wasted.
But there’s a catch; finding the perfect boning knife is not all that easy. There are many options available in the market, which makes it difficult tos choose the right one.
But don’t worry; this is exactly why we’ve created a list of some of the best boning knife reviews for you. Here are some of the most sought-out boning knives for you to go through. With all the variety of options available, you are bound to find an option that suits your requirements. So keep reading to find out more!
Our Top Picks for Boning Knives
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At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Boning Knives
- OUR TOP PICK: Mercer Culinary Millennia
- RUNNER-UP: Dalstrong Shogun Series AUS-10V
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Sky Light Boning Knife
- BEST BONING KNIFE FOR CHICKEN: 6" Victorinox Fibrox Pro Boning Knife
Comparison of the Best Boning Knives
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What is a Boning Knife?
A boning knife is basically a simple kitchen tool that is used to separate the meat from the bones. It features a super sharp blade that is very narrow, allowing it to get close to the bone and removing the meat neatly. This helps in ensuring that no meat is left on the bone and is wasted.
You can use this particular kitchen tool to handle all kinds of meat, including fish, beef, chicken, etc. It is lightweight, flexible, and easy to use. It features a curved blade, which makes the meat processing a lot easier.
There are many different boning knives available in the market for you to consider. These super sharp knives make the slicing and cutting job a lot easier, allowing one to feel relaxed while cooking.
What is a Boning Knife Used For?
Although a boning knife is mostly used to remove the meat from the bones, it can be used for other purposes. Here are some other uses of these knives in the kitchen that make it an essential tool to have in your kitchen.
For Preparing Meat
Boning knives are mainly used for preparing meat for cooking. Their shape, along with their flexibility, allows you to maneuver them in tight spaces. The slender tip allows them to break the cartilage in the joints easily.
This knife is also used to peel the skin from the meat. It is also used for removing the layers of fat.
For Preparing Fruit
A boning knife is very useful for preparing fresh fruits as well as decorative arrangements. The small blade makes this knife a good option to use when dealing with smaller fruits; meanwhile, the sharp tip makes carving the fruits a lot easier. You can use it to peel the skin and rinds of fruits, without carving away the fruit beneath it, which makes sure you don’t waste any.
For Baked Goods
You can even use boning knives for carving cakes into different shapes. With the thin blade, you can carve cakes precisely; you can even out cakes, sharpen the edges, even out the different layers, or shape them into different fun shapes.
Moreover, you can use them for coring and filling cupcakes. Since these knives are thin and feature a pointed blade, you can easily use them to carve a hole in the middle of the cupcake, fill it, and cover it up with some frosting. You can also use a boning knife to cut cookie dough into different unique shapes.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Boning Knives
Here are the best boning knives:
Review of the Best Boning Knives
Boning knives are extremely important for every kitchen, and the market is filled with various different options for you to choose from. So which option should you opt for?
This mostly depends on your personal preference, what you intend to do with the meat, and which protein you’re basically using. Here are a bunch of different options available for you to consider before you make your final purchase.
Best Overall:
Mercer Culinary Millennia
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers report that this knife is a good option to consider. When using it, you hardly have to apply any pressure since the sharp blade can cut almost anything. With the textured finger points, you get a better grip over this knife. Users say it is a comfortable option that helps in making the cooking experience a lot easier.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Mercer boning knife is made using high-quality Japanese steel that doesn't stain and can resist rust, corrosion, as well as discoloration. It features a razor-sharp edge that helps in making the cutting and chopping process a breeze.
It also features an ergonomic handle made using Santoprene and polypropylene; these make the handle both comfortable to use as well as a durable option.
This boning knife also offers textured finger points that help in making the knife slip-resistant and offer a better grip. Moreover, you can easily wash it by hand using some soap and warm water, then just rinse the soap off!
Bottom Line
Overall, this Mercer life is a well-constructed option that is durable and will last you a long time. The sharp blade makes it easy to chop and slice while the ergonomic handles offer comfort and make the knife a lot secure. You can easily use it without experiencing any issues.
Runner-up:
Dalstrong Shogun Series AUS-10V
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most users, this Dalstrong unit is a high-quality option. The blade features amazing craftsmanship, which allows you to cut and slice the meat easily. It features an outstanding edge and manages to retain this feature for a long time.
You can use this knife on an everyday basis, and keep it sharp just by rubbing it on a sharpening stone. Also, it is suitable for professional chefs as well as home cooks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Dalstrong AUS 10V is a great knife, featuring 66 layers that are made of pressed high carbon as well as stainless steel construction. It also features a 12-degree edge, and the blade offers a grade 62+ on the Rockwell scale. This indicates that this knife is not only very sharp but also offers excellent edge retention. You also won't have to really sharpen it that often.
Moreover, the handle is durable; it features a full tang along with three rivets that hold it. In fact, it is an ultra-premium G-10 handle, which makes it impervious to different temperatures and moisture. Moreover, this knife comes with a padded sheath that allows you to store it away when you’re not using it.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this boning knife is a great option for both professionals and home cooks. It is easy to use, and the blade is flexible, which allows you to easily maneuver around the joints and cartilage. You can cut and slice your protein easily using this knife. Overall, it is a sharp and durable option, one that you should consider.
Best for the Money:
Sky Light Boning Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many users preferred the SKYLIGHT boning knife. It features a comfortable tang. It has a stylish design and is lightweight, which makes it very comfortable to use. The knife is also razor-sharp, and the blade allows you to slice the meat off the bones very easily. It is a budget-friendly option, has good construction, and will last a long period.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The SKY LIGHT Classic 6" is a boning knife made from German high carbon and stainless steel. It features a narrow, curved blade that helps make this knife multipurpose. The blade is not only hand-polished, but the edge is also honed at an angle of 17°. The blade is also nitrogen-cooled, which helps enhance its hardness.
Moreover, it features a 58+ Rockwell hardness along with an ergonomic handle that is made using military-grade high polymer, making it resistant to different temperatures. It is a budget-friendly option that makes a good choice.
Bottom Line
All in all, this SKYLINE knife is a good option to have in your kitchen. It is easy to use, and you can use it to cut and slice your choice of protein easily. It features a sharp blade, which helps in making the cooking experience a lot comfortable, making this option definitely worth considering.
Best Boning Knife for Chicken:
6" Victorinox Fibrox Pro Boning Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Overall, users are very satisfied with this Victorinox boning knife. It features a very sharp blade that allows it to cut and slice meat easily. It is a lightweight option with the ideal weight that helps in making the knife suitable for all types of kitchen needs. The stainless steel is of high quality, and the handle makes it a comfortable option to use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Victorinox Fibrox Pro 6" is a is Swiss-manufactured boning knife that is lightweight and features a European high-carbon stainless steel blade. It features an s-shaped blade that offers excellent flexibility that allows you to easily remove the meat and fish from the bone.
The knife also features a Fibrox Pro handle, which means that it is non-slip and ergonomic and offers a secure and comfortable grip. The handle is designed to help prevent hand and wrist fatigue. Overall, the unit is preferred by both culinary professionals and home chefs. It is an essential tool that every kitchen needs.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, this knife is a good option for both professionals and home cooks. It is easy to use and is razor-sharp, which helps in getting all the work done easily. It features a design and a handle that make it both comfortable and safe to use.
Best Japanese Boning Knife:
Shun Double-Bevel Steel Blade DM0743
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most users, this is the best Japanese boning knife you will come across. The blade features an unusual shape; however, it is quite easy to get used to. It is very sharp and allows you to slice most things without having to exert much pressure. It features a nice sharp edge, which it holds very well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Shun Classic 6" is a Japanese boning knife that features a unique blade that is light yet razor-sharp. The blade is both narrow and curved, which helps in reducing the drag while you’re boning and filleting. It is a double bevel blade that has been sharpened to an angle of 17°.
The unit features a core that is made using VG-MAX steel, which is covered with layers of stainless steel. This gives the knife a Damascus finish. It also features a traditional Japanese pakkawood D-shaped handle that helps to offer a more secure and comfortable grip.
Bottom Line
The Shun Classic knife offers quality craftsmanship. The blades are unique and razor-sharp, making this unit suitable for different tasks. Not to forget, the traditional handle makes this knife a comfortable option.
Best Victorinox Boning Knife:
Victorinox Pro Curved Boning Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Victorinox knife is a good option for cutting and filleting different types of proteins. It can hold its edge very well and offers a sharp blade that makes cooking a lot easier. You are required to exert minimal effort when using this knife; it is a good option and a tool that every kitchen needs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Preferred by both professional and home chefs alike, the 6" Victorinox Fibrox Pro Boning Knife is a great option for one to consider. It features a curved blade that offers semi-stiffness, allowing it to work at a better angle. This allows you to cut and slice thicker pieces of meat with accuracy.
It also features an ergonomic handle that has been crafted to offer a comfortable grip. In fact, the handle is textured to prevent the knife from slipping out of your hands, despite the hand size. Such a design also helps to reduce both hand and wrist fatigue.
Bottom Line
Undoubtedly, this knife is an essential tool for every kitchen. Whether you are a beginner chef or a professional, you will find it extremely comfortable to use. The razor-sharp blade allows it to cut and slice all cuts of meat, making it a great pick.
Best Wusthof Boning Knife:
WÜSTHOF Model 4607-7
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
It is no surprise that this knife has a lot of fans. It is flexible, which allows you to debone and cut easily without facing hassle. The razor-sharp blade allows you to make the most out of this option. It is made of stainless steel, which helps make it a durable option.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Wusthof 4607-7 is a thin-bladed boning knife that offers a full tang. It is equipped with a razor-sharp blade that has been tapered and is pointed, which makes it a good option to use when working around joints and deboning.
The unit is made using specially tempered high carbon steel as well as a stain-resistant alloy. It features a handle that is triple-riveted which means that is quite comfortable and slip-resistant to help prevent accidental mishaps.
Moreover, the boning knife features a finger guard as well as a signature bolster end cap. This helps in making it a lot safer.
Bottom Line
Like all other knives on the list, this is also a great option for both home chefs as well as professionals. It is razor-sharp and makes the deboning process a lot easier. It is a comfortable option, and the design makes it a good choice for all those who love to cook.
Best Flexible Boning Knife:
Mercer Culinary Genesis
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Mercer Culinary Genesis is one of the most sought-out boning knives. It can be used for all sorts of proteins, fruits, and vegetables. It has a sharp blade that allows you to get intricate with it if you wanted to. The handle is comfortable to use and is very practical. Moreover, it holds a good edge and is very easy to use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like this Mercer knife because it features a beautiful design that is easy to use by both beginners and professionals. This 6-inch long unit features a forged blade. It is made using German high carbon stainless steel, making it both stain and corrosion-resistant.
It also features a taper ground edge that makes this knife durable and easy to sharpen. The taper-ground edge makes it easier to hone it too.
In addition, the model features an ergonomic black Santoprene handle, which offers both comfort and a better grip. The handle makes it easier to use this knife for both heavy and small cutting. The handle can easily withstand extreme temperatures along with kitchen oils and will last you a long time.
Bottom Line
In short, this boning knife is an affordable option that is easy to use for people with all skill levels. It is a quality knife that is razor-sharp, making it easier to use it for cutting and chopping, and makes for a great investment.
Best Curved Boning Knife:
Victorinox 47602
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to different buyers, this boning knife is suitable for all of the kitchen's tasks. It is one option that will be loved by both beginners and experts. It offers a lot of comfort and is of good quality, ensuring that it will last you a long time. It also includes a thin, flexible blade that helps in making one's cooking experience a lot easier.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Victorinox 47602 boing knife is made using high-quality European stainless steel, which makes it very light. It can be used to cut and bone-thin pieces of meat and fish with high accuracy. It gives you a lot of control and allows you to do intricate slicing as well.
It also features an ergonomic handle that has been crafted to offer comfort and make the knife more balanced. This handle design is made in hopes of providing comfort to the user and to reduce both hand and wrist fatigue.
Bottom Line
Last but not least, this Victorinox boning knife is a great option for all those who love to cook. It is easy to use and offers great performance. You can use it for deboning intricately. It is a very comfortable and secure option and is one that you must take into consideration before you make your final purchase.
Best Boning Knife for Butchers:
Wusthof 4603 Boning Knife
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Wusthof 4603 is also a favorite of many primarily because it is easy to use. It features an ideal length, width, and weight. It is made of carbon steel alloy, which is why it does not stain easily. It is razor-sharp and doesn’t require you to sharpen it that often. Overall, it is a well-crafted knife that requires you to exert minimal effort when using it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Wusthof 4603 is well-loved by professional chefs. It is flexible and features a well-sharpened blade that allows one to easily debone and fillet without having to put in much effort.
It is a 6-inch long boning knife that is made of top-quality material. The razor-sharp blade is made using high-quality tempered carbon. It is not only flexible but also helps in slicing thin and delicate pieces of meat, allowing you to trim and debone easily.
The blade is also both stained and rust-resistant, which allows it to hold its sharpness for a longer period. The knife also features a handle bolster that acts as a finger guard safety and prevents you from cutting your finger.
Bottom Line
While this boning knife is a favorite amongst all professional chefs, it can be used by both professional and home cooks. It is a high-quality model that offers an overall stunning performance, comfort, and ease of use.
Comparison Overview
When considering buying a knife for your kitchen, you might find yourself wondering about all the different kinds and how they differ. You will have questions regarding the type of knife that is more suitable for you and one that will help enhance your cooking experience.
Well, we’ve mentioned some of the basic differences and similarities between different types of knives for you to read below.
Boning vs. Fillet Knife
While many people assume that both fillet and boning knives are the same, in reality, they are both different.
A boning knife is basically made for slicing chicken and beef, and for separating the meat from the bones. Meanwhile, a fillet knife is mainly used for handling both big and small fishes for filleting. The former allows you to separate the meat from the bone; meanwhile, the latter is used for separating the meat from the skin.
Moreover, a boning knife features a wider blade and is more flexible, whereas a fillet knife features a narrow blade and a pointed tip. However, both can be used for removing the skin, and they both are a tool that every kitchen requires.
Curved vs. Straight Boning Knife
The type of boning knife you require is mainly dependent on what you need it for and what type of meat you are using.
You can use a curved knife or a straight boning knife. The former is mainly used to remove the fish skin, whereas the latter is used to remove large chunks of meat.
Curved knives allow you to make long, clean strokes and are perfect for doing delicate jobs maneuvering around small spaces. Meanwhile, straight boning knives can be used for finer slicing and sculpting, and are perfect for high-speed cutting.
6" Victorinox Fibrox Pro Boning Knife
How to Use a Boning Knife
As mentioned, boning knives can be used for multiple purposes and are essential tools that every kitchen must have. However, one must also know how to use them in order to prevent any mishap from happening. Here is the correct method of using these knives.
When Preparing Meat
When you are preparing meat, make sure you’re working with a standard grip. Ensure that the blade is pressed against the meat while you’re using long strokes. See that you don't saw the knife back and forth; instead, use the length of the blade to make long and smooth strokes while pulling the meat away from the bones.
When filleting the meat, check that the blade is angled horizontally to the cutting board. Rest your forefinger on the blade's flat side before the bolster while wrapping the rest of the fingers around the handle. Then press your hand on top of the meat to hold it in place while sliding the blade horizontally and making your way through the meat.
When Preparing Fruit
When using this knife for peeling fruits, make sure to place the handle across the base of your fingers. While doing so, the blade should face you. Hold the blade with your thumb steadily, slide it under the fruit's skin, and move it accordingly.
When Preparing Baked Goods
For coring cupcakes, use the tip and carve a small circle in the middle. Then take a piping bag and some filling and cover it up with some frosting.
Moreover, when making cookies, you can use a boning knife to cut the cookie dough into different shapes. Take the cold dough on a board, roll it on top, and then use the tip to cut the different shapes.
In case you are still confused about how to use it, refer to the following video to clear your confusion.
How to Sharpen a Boning Knife
To sharpen your knife, you will take a knife sharpening stone. The next steps are as follows:
- Start on the coarse side first. Make sure to go on all three sides when sharpening the knife, or it will be of no use.
- What you're basically trying to do is take the feathered sides and pull them back to a fine point.
- For a flat tip, rotate it in a circle. You'll feel some resistance, which means the tip is pulled back.
- Now while making sure you don't hit your knuckles on the stone, spread your fingers out and do sets of 10, 8, 6, 4, 2 for each side with even pressure and press the blade on the stone.
- Keep switching sides. You'll see that you're doing it evenly.
- Now go to medium; remove the excess oil from the knife and do the same sets of 10 to 2 for each side.
- Switch to the fine side of the stone. This will allow you to really hone the knife.
- Again, do the same sets of 10 to 2 for each side.
- By now, the blade should be nice and sharp. Now, rub it across the steel to remove the metal filaments. Also, there will be oil on the knife. Rub it down with a soaking towel.
- Hold the steel and then rub the blade on it. Do not hold it hard and apply even pressure on both sides.
If you are still confused, make sure to watch the following video to better understand the process.
Conclusion
Boning knives are essential for every kitchen. Whether you are a professional chef or someone who loves to cook, your kitchen should always be equipped with this kitchen tool. There are many different types of boning knives available in the market for you to consider, and you can easily find one that suits your requirements.
However, remember, which one you should opt for is dependent on what you're doing to do with it and the kind of protein you’re going to be using. So, keep everything in mind and choose an option that is suitable for your requirements.
People Also Ask
Before you purchase a boning knife, you might still be a bit curious about certain things. Considering all the different options available in the market, picking one becomes very difficult. But don't worry; here are a few questions that most people ask before they purchase a boning knife. You can go through them to clear your head of any queries.
Should a Boning Knife Be Flexible?
While deboning meat, it's extremely important that your knife is flexible. Boning knives feature different levels of flexibility. While some are a bit stiffer, others are quite flexible. So which one do you use? Well, this mainly depends on your personal preference, what you intend to use the knife for, and which proteins you will be using.
Stiff boning knives are suitable for trimming meat and for filleting large fishes.
A flexible boning knife is suitable for when you are dealing with smaller pieces of meat or if you're dealing with small bones and cartilage. You can easily remove fat and skin with this one.
Semi-flexible knives are used for large pieces of meat and heavy-duty bones.
How Do You Hold a Boning Knife?
When using a boning knife, it is important that you hold it with the right grip. Your grip will be based on what you’re doing with the knife and how you feel comfortable.
When separating the meat from bones, you can grip the handle with all of your fingers, or you could pinch the blade between your thumb and forefinger and then wrap the remaining fingers over the handle. The pinch grip is firmer, giving you greater control over the knife.
However, when you’re using the knife to remove the skin or fillet meat, you will grip it differently.
How Long Should a Boning Knife Be?
Most boning knives feature blades that are five to 6.5 inches long. Smaller blades tend to offer more flexibility.
You will have to use one that you’re comfortable with so that you can easily remove the bone from delicate cuts. There are a few options available that feature a seven to nine-inch long blade. However, they are used for handling extremely large cuts of meat.
Therefore, it is always convenient to have a boning knife with a smaller and larger blade as there is no one-size-fits-all option.
