15 Best Boning Knives In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Any cook or chef’s best friend is the boning knife. This essential kitchen tool efficiently cuts through raw meat like fish, chicken, beef, or pork. But not all boning knives are the same. So, you need to find the one that works best for you.
Do you want something with a long blade? What type of handle do you want? Do looks matter to you? All the answers are on our list of the best boning knives.
 
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Most Lightweight - Victorinox Pro Boning Knife• Flexible blade for a better angle |
Most Attractive - Mercer Culinary Genesis Boning Knife• Professional and sleek look |
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Most Flexible - Dexter-Russell Boning Knife• Smart handle design to maintain hygiene |
1. Victorinox Pro Boning Knife - Most Lightweight
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What Customers Have To Say
An Amazon customer commented that this boning knife is one of the sharpest knives she’s used, putting her other expensive knives to shame. The price is excellent, and the curved-shaped blade does a fantastic job at cutting meats. Another shopper said that she had her Victorinox for over 20 years because it’s her go-to knife. It has never been sharpened, and it is nowhere near dull.
Why We Think It’s Great
It is designed smartly to allow cutting and trimming the thinnest cuts of meat and fish with precision and accuracy. The non-slip handle doesn’t provide tension to the wrist, and the pointed blade pierces through meat smoothly, including joints and cartilage.
Who Should Buy It
This boning knife is suitable for professional settings such as in restaurants since it can perform at a fast pace with ease.
2. Mercer Culinary Curved Boning Knife - Best Edge
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What Customers Have To Say
One shopper stated that this boning knife cuts through a tenderloin like a hot knife through butter. Another customer said that this is an exceptional knife with the right characteristics for deboning. The blade is foldable without being too soft. The ergonomic handle enables you to use it even with slippery hands.
Why We Think It’s Great
When handling something dangerous such as a knife, one needs assurance that they will not be harmed when using it. That’s why the Mercer boning knife’s handle is made from Santoprene and Polypropylene and designed with texture finger points for resistance and safety.
Who Should Buy It
Another great handle feature of this boning knife is the protective finger guard. If you like using sharp knives but don’t like getting cut, this is for you.
3. Dexter-Russell Boning Knife - Most Flexible
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer remarked that when it comes to meat, this boning knife is a game-changer. This product is super sharp and easily cuts with a terrific grip. Another shopper can’t seem to find anything to dislike about this knife. It fits his hand well and has a nice curve to cut away fat and silver skin. It’s also sharp out of the box and seems sturdy with a flex.
Why We Think It’s Great
With a sharp blade with the right amount of flex and curve, you can never go wrong with this boning knife. Whatever cut or type of meat is up for boning or trimming, this knife can do it all. The handle is also sealed well around the blade, so it is easy to keep clean.
Who Should Buy It
The majority of the reviews reveal that this boning knife is best used for barbecue and brisket. So, if you have an upcoming backyard party, use this knife to prepare your meat and then serve delicious cocktails to go with them.
4. Update International German Steel Boning Knife - Best Value
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What Customers Have To Say
One Amazon customer shared that he has been using this boning knife for two and a half years and counting. He smokes meat as a hobby and uses it to trim the meat while prepping it for the cook. Overall, he couldn't ask for a better knife for the value. A different customer said that this excellent boning knife is perfect for removing chicken skin and fat from steaks. For him, it is a bit thin, but that is why it is so perfect to handle.
Why We Think It’s Great
Under $10, this boning knife provides the utmost deboning capability with its skillfully honed blade to deliver superior performance. The steel is incorporated with Molybdenum vanadium for added strength and wear resistance, so your food preparation is uninterrupted.
Who Should Buy It
If you want a quality and high-performing boning knife without breaking the bank, this one is for you. It also smoothly goes well with the best cutting boards.
5. UltraSource Boning Knife - Safest Design
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What Customers Have To Say
An Amazon shopper said that the blade arrived very sharp and maintained its sharpness throughout cutting. He has thoroughly enjoyed this boning knife and wished that he had purchased it sooner. Another customer said the 5-inch blade is great for those awkward boning angles a carcass can offer and, while semi-flexible, has enough lateral resistance to give good precision when needed.
Why We Think It’s Great
This boning knife’s blade contains Molybdenum and has undergone cryogenic treatment to enhance performance and retain its edge. With this, separating meat from the bone is like a walk in the park. The ergonomic handle is also strategically positioned for easy cleaning and maintaining sanitary standards.
Who Should Buy It
For heavy-duty cutting and trimming, use the UltraSource boning knife for a hassle-free performance without causing you hand fatigue.
6. Mercer Culinary Genesis Boning Knife - Most Attractive
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer said that this boning knife is fantastic, and he proved it by slicing through a thick 4-lb. boneless pork roast like butter. He remarked that it’s definitely worth it. Another buyer said that the non-slip grip is very nice to have when trimming meats. It is well balanced and very sharp, but one must hone it regularly to maintain its edge.
Why We Think It’s Great
This boning knife is resistant to stain, rust, and corrosion, making it durable and sharp. The edge is slightly tapered, so there is increased efficiency with boning and cutting. The blade is then stuck onto a Santoprene handle for a comfortable grip.
Who Should Buy It
Handle your food with precision and finesse with the Mercer Culinary Genesis boning knife. You can use it in your home kitchen or at a gourmet restaurant.
7. Victorinox Pro Curved Cimeter Boning Knife - Best Blade Shape
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What Customers Have To Say
An Amazon patron remarked that while the boning knife is great, the packaging was hazardous and prone to damaging the product. He suggests being careful when unpacking it. Meanwhile, another customer said that this knife is larger than he thought. Nevertheless, he still finds it beautiful and well-made.
Why We Think It’s Great
You won’t have a hard time butchering big pieces of meat with this large and sharp boning knife. The curved blade is designed with long-lasting sharpness, and the edge doesn’t have bolters. It also features an ergonomic handle that allows a firm grip even with wet hands.
Who Should Buy It
For intricate cuttings and trimmings, this boning knife will not let you down. It’s suitable for heavy-duty work in professional settings.
8. Chicago Cutlery Paring / Boning Knife - Most Durable
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer shared that her mom has this boning knife, and she has used it every day for 25 years. Then she got her a new one for her birthday. She added that if you need a reasonably priced, trustworthy knife, this brand is truly the way to go. Another one commented that this feels the same as her old knife and that it’s just as sharp.
Why We Think It’s Great
This boning knife follows a more traditional style, with a wood handle that features triple brass rivets and a full metal tang for stability and control. The tapered grind edge also offers optimum sharpness, and the blade is resistant to rust and stains.
Who Should Buy It
Many customers remarked about how they had this boning knife for years, so if you want your knife to provide you with an unfailing performance for a long time, this is for you. It can also be paired with a mini cutting board for smaller meat or fish.
9. Global 6.25" Boning Knife - Best Blade Quality
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer remarked that this is the best boning knife he has ever bought. He sharpens it every 6 weeks or so before use, making it even more flexible, which he loves. Another shopper said that this boning knife made quick work of 5 trout with precision and perfection.
Why We Think It’s Great
Most boning knives have plastic or wooden handles. But the Global knife extends its stainless steel blade to the handle, dimpled and molded well to fit the hand. The blade is crafted with hard Molybdenum and vanadium and is tapered, so edges remain sharp longer.
Who Should Buy It
If you don’t shy away from spending a lot of money on one of the best boning knives, try this one out!
10. Kessaku Boning Knife - Best Packaging
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What Customers Have To Say
An Amazon patron shared that this boning knife is long, flexible, has sufficient weight, and comfortable tang. It also comes in a beautiful box and a safety sheath. Another one said that the knife is gorgeous and razor-sharp, right out of the box. She broke down 25 lbs of chicken with it, and it performed comfortably and flawlessly.
Why We Think It’s Great
Your days of struggling with separating meat from bone are over if you have this knife. It cuts with precise control since it’s made from cutting-edge technology and the finest materials. The handle is also made from Pakkawood, which is heat, cold, and moisture resistant for a better grip.
Who Should Buy It
If you like to maneuver through meat with a reliable boning knife, look no further because Kessaku is what you need.
11. Chicago Cutlery Utility Knife - Most Balanced
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What Customers Have To Say
One Amazon patron said that Chicago Cutlery had been his brand for years and his uncle, who owned a barbecue restaurant. He added that the boning knife is very sharp, and it gets better with use. Another customer said that she had this knife for years because it has the best quality and sharpens quickly.
Why We Think It’s Great
This boning knife features a classic design that would be an excellent addition to any kitchen for a low cost. The product uses brass rivets and a full metal tang, ensuring control and stability.
Who Should Buy It
The blade of this product slices fine because it's sharp enough. This product would be a great purchase, considering that it has a good value.
12. Wusthof 4603 Boning Knife - Best Design
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What Customers Have To Say
An Amazon customer remarked that this is a well-crafted boning knife. It keeps its edge and takes minimal effort to resharpen. Another shopper commented that it has an excellent grip, suitable for both a right-hander and a left-handed. This knife was born precisely for boning, but she also tried it on fish, and it proved to be very suitable for filleting.
Why We Think It’s Great
The blade of this boning knife has enough flexibility and the right amount of its stiffness. For that matter, this can be used for fishes or chickens, etc. The handle is made out of Polyoxymethylene, which gives it significant friction and sturdiness.
Who Should Buy It
This product is excellent if you're looking for a good-quality boning knife on a tight budget. Although you may find the blade to get dull quickly, honing it is not as hard.
13. Chicago Cutlery Carbon Blade Slicing Knife - Easiest to Sharpen
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What Customers Have To Say
One customer commented that this boning knife is better than he expected. It cuts the skin of fish so clean, so he was very impressed with it. Another shopper said that this is a great fillet knife because it is easy to sharpen and maintain. Overall, he highly recommended it.
Why We Think It’s Great
The blade is thin, which is great for slicing and reaching tight spaces. Moreover, the material used is high-carbon stainless steel, which slows down rusting and resists stains. The walnut handle makes the knife a great display in the kitchen.
Who Should Buy It
It's perfect for deboning fish since it's thin, sharp, and slender. If you're frequently preparing fish, then this boning knife is what you need.
14. Cook N Home Boning Knife - Most Comfortable Handle
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer shared that these boning knives have a nice sharp edge, and they cut through pork bellies and brisket with ease. Another Amazon shopper commented that these knives are incredibly sharp and keep their edge. He easily boned out a whole chicken in no time. It’s also flexible and great for filleting fish.
Why We Think It’s Great
The handle of this boning knife has a vibrant color for visibility, and it makes your kitchen look lively. The handle is also textured, which is helpful for a firmer grip. It works efficiently for deboning and trimming. The blade is sturdy and sharp enough, made of stainless steel.
Who Should Buy It
If you want an accommodating boning knife that’s easy to handle and comes in two, you should definitely get this one.
15. Shun Premier Gokujo Boning Fillet Knife - Best Splurge
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What Customers Have To Say
A customer remarked that this is a fantastic boning knife. He needed a blade that could trim, cut, and slice through meat perfectly. It finely trims just the right amount of fat from brisket and cuts around a bone on a big roast like a champ. A different shopper said that this is beautifully crafted and perfect in every way. The blade is smooth on the opposite side, and she finds the craftsmanship really good.
Why We Think It’s Great
This boning knife has a curved blade, which is perfect for deboning fishes and other delicate meat. The handle is Walnut Pakkawood, and it is comfortable and secure in the hand. The blade won't dull quickly, and it is sharpened at a 16-degree angle. This specific angle will help release the food easier.
Who Should Buy It
The Shun Premier Gokujo boning knife is much more expensive than the usual knives on the market, but the quality of the product makes up for it. If you're looking for a high-quality boning knife and your budget is flexible, this knife would be a great choice.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Boning Knife
Here are some factors that you need to know when investing in the best boning knife.
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Type
There are two types of boning knives - stiff and flexible. Before buying a boning knife, think about what you're using it for. Stiff knives, such as pocket knives, are straight and have little to no flexibility in them. They are often used for thick cuts of tough meat.
On the other hand, flexible boning knives are thinner and much pliable. They are also usually smaller than stiff knives. They are made to cut fish or chicken meat. Be careful what you use the knife for. If you use a flexible boning knife for tough meat, you will most likely end up breaking or bending it. And if you use a stiff knife for deboning fish, the result won't be as good.
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Size
The usual blade size for boning knives ranges from 3 to 6.5 inches. You must know that the smaller the blade, the more flexible it is. This size is appropriate for delicate meats. However, some manufacturers may also produce knives with a size that ranges from 7 to 9 inches. Boning knives of this size are usually used by professional butchers who work with large cuts of meat.
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Handle
The strength of your grip will depend on the material used for the boning knife's handle. Since the handle is where you put all your force, make sure you choose the best boning knife with the most functional handle. You may also select a handle based on its physical appearance.
Handles made from Polypropylene will give you a more enhanced grip. While wooden handles may be more sophisticated to look at, wood can deteriorate quicker than synthetic materials and won't give you enough resistance.
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Blade Shape
The two types of the blade in boning knives are straight and curved. The difference is relatively self-explanatory. If you choose the wrong blade for a specific meat type, it will take a longer time to finish the task. For example, using a straight blade for deboning fish cuts may be challenging, and the process is slow. Whereas if you use a curved blade, it will be much easier and faster.
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Blade Material
Usually, the blade used in boning knives are made from high-carbon stainless steel, but you may also find knives with different blade materials such as cold steel, tempered, 4116, etc. These materials differ in their characteristics.
High carbon blades are lightweight, making them comfortable to handle, and they are stain and rust-resistant. Cold steel blades are known for their superior durability. However, each blade is durable and sharp enough for the best boning knife’s purpose.
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Sharpness
Before picking out the best boning knife for you, make sure you check reviews and other feedback about its sharpness. There are also boning blades that are sharp during the first month but start to get dull after that, doubling your effort by sharpening it regularly.
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Balance and Weight
Aside from the handle, the knife’s balance and weight also contribute to the grip’s comfort. Some boning knives have a very sturdy handle, but the blade is flimsy.
On the other hand, others have a huge and thick blade, but the handle is wobbly. The best boning knife has to be somewhere in between. You’ll know if they have the right balance and weight by feeling how they are in your hand and how they hold up.
Boning Knife FAQ
1. What is the difference between a fillet knife and a boning knife?
Fillet knives and boning knives have one thing in common: they are used to remove bones from meat. However, if you examine the blades deeply, you will see that a fillet knife is best used for fishes, while a boning knife is best used for pork, beef, chicken, etc.
Boning knives are the thinnest among all kitchen knives but not thinner than fillet knives. Most boning blades are straight, but some are flexible. Fillet knives are made thinner than boning knives, which is why they are flexible. It is made this way to cut delicate meat more precisely, and they are maneuvered easily.
2. Should a boning knife be flexible?
A boning knife doesn’t have to be flexible, and you can find two types of it, which are the flexible ones or the stiff ones. Your choice between the two may vary according to its purpose. If you’re looking for a knife to debone pork or beef, most likely, a stiff boning knife will do a better job. However, a flexible boning knife is more of a specialized tool, and it performs best if you use it to skin a fish.
3. What is the difference between a fillet knife and a boning knife?
Boning knives are not high-maintenance kitchen tools. Just like any other kitchen knife, you should never put them in your dishwasher, and they need to be honed when they are slowly becoming dull. After you use your boning knife:
- Make sure you immediately wash it using warm water and soap.
- Use a gentle brush or a soft cloth to clean off any debris left.
- Afterward, dry the knife with a clean towel, and lastly, put it back in its place.
4. What does boning mean?
Boning is a popular method widely used in the world of cuisine. It’s a method used to remove bones from various meat cuts, and a boning knife is used for this method. Multiple recipes require boned meat as an ingredient; hence boning is done before the meat is prepared for cooking.
5. How do you sharpen a boning knife?
Boning knives must remain sharp, so you don’t have to exert much effort when using them. The best boning knife does the work all by itself, and you’re just guiding it. So, in sharpening a boning knife, you can use a whetstone or a honing rod.
First, you need to lubricate the whetstone or honing rod with mineral oil so it will be easier to drag the knife against the surface. Angle the edge of the blade on the surface, then drag it downwards. When it comes to the tip, you need to slightly raise the handle so the tip can come into contact with the sharpening tool. Repeat this process until the knife is fully sharpened.
Conclusion
All of the boning knives on this list are great, and each has its unique traits to offer. But there can only be one best boning knife for you.
Understandably, it’s a hard decision, but we suggest that you pick the Victorinox Pro Boning Knife for starters. Not only is it a big name in the knife world, but because it delivers a fantastic performance. We also recommend the Mercer Culinary Genesis Boning Knife. It looks very professional and has a plausible balance, useful when boning meat with less effort.
Another reason to love boning knives is that they can be used to slice citrus garnishes for cocktails or to saber Champagne bottles. Just make sure to use the stiff and big blade for the latter.
How did using a boning knife change your meat preparation experience? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.