
Quality bread knives are a must-have for any kitchen. As well as their obvious bread-slicing abilities, good serrated knives can perform a whole host of useful kitchen tasks. When it comes to choosing a knife, however, you might find yourself a little overwhelmed. As more and more of us embrace our culinary flair, the kitchenware market has flooded with knives – not all of them made to the same standard.
Finding a knife that works for you and your kitchen can be something of a challenge – that’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 serrated bread knives available right now. Whatever your budget, or style, we’re sure there’s something on our list you’ll love. To help you choose, we’ve also addressed some common questions about these surprisingly versatile knives, and how you can get the most out of them.
The Best Bread Knife
1
Mercer Culinary Millennia
Kicking off our list is this serrated bread knife by Mercer Culinary. As the winner of Cook’s Illustrated’s Best Serrated Knife award, it should come as no surprise that this great kitchen tool is designed and manufactured to exacting standards.
On its handle, textured finger points provide superior slip resistance, allowing you to cut with confidence. A finger guard at the base of the handle offers further protection against any mishaps, while its ergonomic shape makes cutting easy and comfortable. The blade itself is made from high carbon Japanese steel – known for its superior quality, and ability to retain an edge. It’s easy to sharpen too, meaning you can keep on using it for many years to come. Finally, its handle is available in eight different colors, so you can even match it with your current kitchenware.
Winner of the Cook’s Illustrated award for Best Serrated Knife
Ergonomic handle features textured finger points for slip resistance
Finger guard protects your hands from mishaps
Easy to sharpen, and designed to last
Handle available in 8 different colors
- BrandMercer Culinary
- ModelM23210
- Weight4.8 ounces
2
Cuisinart Electric Bread Knife
The first electric knife to make our list is by Cuisinart. The handy device includes two different blades – one for carving meat, and one for slicing bread – allowing it to tackle a wider variety of tasks than a standard knife could. Both blades are constructed from quality stainless steel, meaning they can cut through both meat and bread with ease. They can also be sharpened to increase their lifetime.
Its ergonomic plastic handle features a one-touch activation trigger, making the cutting mechanism easy to switch on and off at a moment’s notice. It’s easy to store, too, thanks to an attractive wooden block holder, which will look at home on any countertop. With the knife’s three year warranty, you can also rest assured that it’s built to last. Users say the knife can slice through the obligatory Thanksgiving roast with ease and is quick and easy to clean after use.
Two interchangeable blades
Cuts through meat and bread with ease
Ergonomic plastic handle makes the knife easy to maneuver
Features a one-touch trigger for responsive activation
Attractive storage block looks at home in any kitchen
Easy to clean after use
- BrandCuisinart
- ModelCEK-40
- Weight0.48 ounces
3
Chicago Cutlery Serrated Bread Knife
At number three on our list, is this attractive and traditional bread cutting knife by Chicago Cutlery. Its carbon stainless steel blade can stand up to rust, stains, and pitting while slicing through any loaf with ease. The 25-degree taper grind edge makes for optimum sharpness that’s designed to last.
Meanwhile, triple brass rivets and a full metal tang in the knife’s handle ensures the blade stays stable as you cut. This allows excellent control and reduces the chance of mishaps. It’s also comfortable to hold, thanks to an ergonomically carved and attractive walnut handle. Each knife also includes a full lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured it’s built to last. You can also purchase other knives with the same walnut handle design, to complete the look.
25-degree taper grind edge for optimum sharpness
Full tang handle
Blade held in place with 3 brass rivets
Ergonomic walnut handle for excellent control
Includes a lifetime warranty
Other blades available in the same style
- BrandChicago Cutlery
- ModelBT10P
- Weight4.8 ounces
4
ORBLUE Serrated Bread Knife
The next knife to earn itself a spot on our list is Orblue’s 8 inch design. The knife’s one-piece construction offers excellent stability, while its ultra-thin, razor sharp edge can cut through bread and pastries like butter. AT only 2.2 millimeters thick, the blade offers nearly zero resistance while cutting.
With eight inches of blade at your disposal, you’ll be able to slice loaves of any size. Without any plastic or wood in its design, there are no screws to come loose, and the knife is easy to wash. Customers report that the knife cuts through bread without the need to use much pressure, so you’ll never need to worry about squashing your loaves again! It also fits comfortably in the hand, for easy use.
Serrated knife with 8-inch blade
Ultra-thin blade slices through bread, pastries, pineapples and tomatoes with ease
Almost zero resistance cutting
One-piece design is stable and easy to clean
Ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand
- BrandOrblue
- Model5155540
- Weight4.8 ounces
5
Pure Komachi 2 Series Bread Knife
Kai Pure Komachi has also earned themselves a spot on our list with their sleek and cost-effective serrated knife. Its blade features a unique scalloped design, which can cut through a wide range of foods effortlessly. Its blade retains edge well over time and stands up to rust and corrosion.
The knife is available in a variety of fun colors, all of which are FDA-approved as food safe. The whole knife is coated in a non-stick resin coating, designed to offer users an easy grip. The knife’s lightweight design, combined with an ergonomically constructed handle, allows users to hold the knife for long periods without fatigue. Customers say the knife is ideal for professionals and amateur chefs alike, thanks to its excellent materials and carefully considered design.
The unique scalloped blade is constructed from high carbon steel
Blade resists corrosion and rust
Available in bright colors, all of which are FDA approved as food safe
Non-stick resin coating
Ergonomically shaped, lightweight handle prevents hand fatigue
Manufactured to a professional standard
- BrandKai Pure Komachi 2
- ModelAB5062
- Weight3.52 ounces
6
Victorinox Black Fibrox Pro Bread Knife
Black Fibrox Pro is the next option to make it onto our list. Known the world over for their superior kitchenware, it should come as no surprise that Victorinox has designed and manufactured their knife to an exacting standard.
Each blade is conical ground through its length and depth, offering users a wider breakpoint. The cold-stamped rolled steel has also been ice-tempered to sustain sharpness for longer, and its bolster less edge makes sharpening a breeze. Meanwhile, the knife’s patented Fibrox handle is textured to be slip-resistant and ergonomically designed to reduce hand fatigue during use. Each knife also includes a lifetime warranty against defects, so you can rest assured it will last for years to come. Users say the blade can cut through bread and pastries effortlessly, and manages to minimize crumbs too.
7-inch serrated blade
Professional quality
Offers excellent edge retention
Blade constructed from cold-stamped rolled, ice-tempered steel
Easy to sharpen
Firbox handle is ergonomically shaped and textured for slip resistance
Handle designed to reduce wrist fatigue
- BrandVictorinox
- Model47548
- Weight3.36 ounces
7
Global Bread Knife
The next item to earn its place on our list is this Global knife. The knife features a carefully crafted blade, made with a specialized molybdenum-vanadium steel alloy. The metal retains its sharpness exceptionally well, so you’ll only need to sharpen the blade occasionally. It’s also resistant to rust and corrosion, increasing its lifetime.
The knife’s handle is made from the same durable steel alloy, molded into an attractive and ergonomic shape that rests comfortably in the hand. A series of indentations ensures it’s easy to grip, too, preventing slippage and the mishaps this can result in. Each Global knife also includes a lifetime warranty against breakage and defects, proving the faith they have in their products. This particular knife was designed by legendary knife aficionado, Komin Yamada. Perpetually looking to nature for his inspiration, Yamada strives to create tools that feel more like an extension of their user’s own hand. Global knives are loved by professionals and amateurs alike for good reason.
Crafted from a specially designed molybdenum-vanadium steel alloy
Blade retains its sharpness exceptionally well
Resistant to rust and corrosion
Includes a lifetime warranty against breakage and defects
The ergonomic and dimpled handle makes for a comfortable, anti-fatigue grip
Designed by legendary knife-maker, Komin Yamada
- BrandGlobal
- ModelG-9
- Weight9.4 ounces
8
DALSTRONG Gladiator Series Bread Slicer
Dalstrong has also impressed us on the bread cutter front, with this attractive and durable tool. The razor-sharp, full-tang knife is constructed from high carbon German steel, cut with geometrically angled serrations. This allows the blade to slice through loaves of bread, pastries, and even fruits and vegetables with ease. The hand-polished edge retains its sharpness incredibly well, and makes for effortless thin-slicing, with minimal crumbs.
The knife’s award-winning design is crafted to provide users with a satisfying weight, without being too heavy for extended periods of use. The black pakkawood handle is triple-riveted for outstanding stability during use and carved into a sleek ergonomic shape. Meanwhile, the knife’s tall blade height offers great knuckle clearance as you slice. Each of these features combines to offer professionals and amateurs alike a safe and satisfying kitchen experience. It’s no wonder that Dalstrong offers a 100% money-back guarantee with every knife.
10-inch full-tang serrated knife
Cut with angled geometrically angled serrations for easy cutting
Blade retains its sharpness incredibly well
Minimal crumb production during use
Black pakkawood handle is sleek and ergonomic
Triple-riveted handle for great stability
Features a lifetime guarantee
- BrandDalstrong
- ModelGS-10inch-Bread
- Weight8 ounces
9
Out of the Woods of Oregon Bread and Bagel Slicer
If you’re a fan of the humble American bagel, this next knife is the perfect option for you. The slicer is made from sustainably grown red alder, always sourced from the USA. The fine serrated blade glides through bagels and bread with ease. Its design, reminiscent of a jigsaw, cuts through foods without getting in the way, allowing you to slice quickly.
One of the knife’s main appeals is the attractive, rustic design. The space between handle and blade acts as a perfect guide for cutting bread into even slices. This makes the handy tool ideal for regular bakers, who need to cut loaves quickly and efficiently. Users say it’s ideal for homemade sandwiches, and cuts thin, neat slices every time.
Jigsaw style bagel and bread slicer
Made with USA-sourced, sustainably grown wood
Slices bread quickly and efficiently
Attractive, rustic design
Space between blade and handle acts as a useful cutting guide, for even slices
Ideal for regular bakers
- BrandOut of the Woods of Oregon
- Model10101
- Weight1.6 ounces
10
F Dick Pro-Dynamic Offset Bread Knife
Last on our list is this offset knife by F. Dick. The knife features a nifty downward-sloping handle, designed to put less pressure on your wrist as you cut. The full plastic handle is also grippy and comfortable to use – it won’t slip in your hand, reducing the risk of injury during use. The blade is hardened and geometrically cut to offer an extremely effective and long-lasting cutting edge. Users say that the knife cuts through fruits, veg, and bread with ease, while the ergonomic handle is easy to hold, even for extended periods of time. For under $30, we think this knife is a steal – it’s simple and easy to use, made from five-star materials, and built to last.
Offset knife
The downward-sloping handle makes for comfortable cutting even during extended periods of use
Grippy and comfortable to use
Resistant to rust and easy to clean
Excellent value for money
- BrandF. DICK
- Model8505518
- Weight10.4 ounces
Best Bread Knife Buying Guide & FAQ
With so many quality options to choose from, we’re confident you’ll find a knife on our list to meet your needs. Since selecting a knife can be a surprisingly complex process, we’ve also put together this handy buying guide, offering some tips and tricks for selecting your dream knife.
Below, we discuss what to look for in a bread knife, the different options you’ll be presented with, and how you can get the most out of this surprisingly versatile kitchen tool.
What to Look for When Buying a Bread Knife
When selecting a bread knife, it’s a good idea to bear the following factors in mind:
- Blade Length
When choosing your new bread knife, one of the first things to bear in mind is blade length. 10-inch blades are a good bet if you’re looking for a versatile knife, as this length is long enough to reach across everything from large loaves to small pastries. If you find longer blades difficult to handle, however, you could consider an 8 or even 7-inch blade.
- Serration
When shopping for a bread knife, look out for blades featuring fewer, deeper serrations. This is the optimum design for cutting bread and will allow you to slice through the loaf quickly, without having to exert much downward pressure onto the bread.
- Blade Material
Another factor to bear in mind when choosing a bread knife is what the blade is made of. Most blades will be constructed from some type of stainless steel. This material is known for its hardness, durability, rust-resistance, and ability to retain a sharp edge. As you browse, you’ll notice that not all steel is created equal. Look out for a high carbon option, as this is usually a good indicator of quality. Alternatively, you could choose a molybdenum-vanadium steel alloy.
- Handle Material
When it comes to choosing a bread knife, you’ll have plenty of different handle options to choose from, including:
- Steel - although it’s hard, steel can be shaped in a manner that makes it surprisingly enjoyable to hold. One-piece knives often feature steel handles and provide good stability and maneuverability.
- Wood - classically designed knives often feature wooden handles. They’re a little softer than their steel counterparts, and look very attractive. However, they can be a little harder to clean and dry, since wood is porous.
- Plastic - plastic handles are probably the most pleasant to hold. They can be easily textured for superior grip, and molded into ergonomic shapes.
- Ease of Use
Ease of use is another key factor to bear in mind when choosing any tool, knives included. If you tend to experience wrist strain when using knives for extended periods, look out for an offset design, such as entry number 10 on our list. Besides this, it’s a good idea to look out for textured, ergonomically shaped handles.
- Budget
As with any purchase, you’ll need to keep your budget in mind when selecting a bread knife. It’s possible to spend thousands of dollars on a knife, but more budget-friendly models also exist to cater to the average home chef. A budget of $30 is more than enough to secure a high-quality bread knife that’s comfortable to use and built to last.
- Appearance
Although it might not sound as important as other factors, a knife’s appearance can also influence your buying decision. Whatever your tastes, chances are you’ll be able to find a knife which you think looks good - whether that entails a fun, colorful design, or a classic polished wood handle.
Why You Need a Bread Knife
No home kitchen is complete without a decent bread knife. They allow you to slice a loaf of bread and pastry without crushing them, and have a few other surprising uses:
- Cutting Tomatoes
Believe it or not, serrated bread knives are a great tool for slicing this ubiquitous ingredient. Their serrated edges glide through tender tomatoes without crushing them.
- Slicing Chocolate
As any regular baker will tell you, getting chocolate into regularly sized pieces can be a challenging affair. Chocolate is often hard and melts quickly when handled. You can get around this with a bread knife - their sharp teeth can easily break the chocolate into smaller pieces.
- Taking the Rind off Melons
You can also use your bread knife to remove melon rinds, by slicing off the fruit’s top and bottom, before using the knife’s serrated edge to shave the outer rind away.
- Cutting Cake
Bread knives are gentle enough to slice softer cakes without cutting them to shreds.
Different Types of Bread Knives
When choosing your bread knife, you’ll have a few different options:
- Electric Bread Knife
A handy kitchen gadget, the electric bread knife houses a small motor to move the blade back and forth for you, so all you need to do is move it down through the bread.
- One-piece Knives
As their name suggests, this type of knife is constructed from a single piece of steel, making for excellent stability and maneuverability.
- Offset Knives
These knives feature a blade that is offset from the handle. Their primary function is to reduce the strain put on your wrist during use.
- Full Tang Knives
In a full tang knife, one solid piece of metal runs all through the handle, and two pieces of wood have pinned either side to form a handle. Besides one-piece knives, these tools provide the greatest cutting stability.
Best Bread Knives FAQ:
Q: How should I care for my bread knives?
A: You can keep your bread knife in good condition by following these tips:
- Wash the knife by hand in soapy water after each use
- Ensure the blade is fully dry after every wash
- Store the knife in a dry place
- Use the knife as it was designed, slicing back and forth in a sliding motion
- Never use your bread knife for frozen foods, or hard fruits and vegetables, as this can dull the blade
Q: Can I sharpen a bread knife?
A: Bread knives can be sharpened, but the task is a lot more complex than other types of the knife since each individual serration will need to be sharpened.
You can do this yourself at home with a specially designed sharpener for serrated knives, or take it to a professional. You should sharpen the knife roughly every six months.
Q: What else can I cut with a bread knife?
A: As discussed earlier, you can cut plenty of ingredients with a bread knife, including:
- Pastries
- Bagels
- Cakes
- Tomatoes
- Chocolate
Our Top Pick
For us, the best bread knife on the market right now has to be Mercer Culinary’s cost-effective and excellent offering. The knife features a blade made from sturdy Japanese steel, making for a razor-sharp edge that stays sharp for long stretches between sharpening.
At its other end, the knife’s handle offers textured finger points for a comfortable and secure grip. A protective finger guard also ensures your hands are as safe as possible during use. Overall, as the winner of the Cook’s Illustrated Best Serrated Knife award, you can count on this knife to deliver effective and finest cutting. To match your kitchen interior, the knife’s handle is also available in eight attractive colors.