there are several excellent and affordable sushi knives available for home use. However, it's important to keep in mind that product availability and prices may have changed since then, so I recommend checking current online retailers and customer reviews for the most up-to-date options. That being said, here are some popular choices that were known for being reasonably priced and suitable for home use:
Victorinox Swiss Army 10-1/2" Sandwich Knife: This knife is not specifically designed for sushi, but its thin, sharp blade makes it suitable for slicing fish and other ingredients. Victorinox is known for producing high-quality, budget-friendly knives.
Tojiro DP Sujihiki Knife: Tojiro offers a range of affordable and well-made Japanese knives. The DP series, in particular, is well-regarded for its performance and value. The Sujihiki knife is a slicing knife that can be used for sushi preparation.
Mercer Culinary Asian Collection Yanagi Sashimi Knife: Mercer Culinary is a respected brand among both professional chefs and home cooks. The Yanagi Sashimi Knife in their Asian Collection is suitable for slicing raw fish and making sushi.
Global G-48 7-inch Santoku Hollow Ground Knife: The Global brand is known for producing lightweight, sharp knives with excellent edge retention. While a Santoku knife isn't a traditional sushi knife, its versatility can be useful in a home kitchen.
Shun Sora 8" Chef's Knife: The Shun Sora series is designed to be more affordable than some of Shun's higher-end lines while still providing good performance. This chef's knife can handle various tasks, including sushi preparation.
When choosing a sushi knife, look for one made from high-quality stainless steel with a sharp, single-bevel edge (traditional Japanese style) or a double-bevel edge (Western style). The blade length should be appropriate for your needs, typically around 8 to 10 inches for most home cooks. Additionally, consider the knife's handle, as a comfortable grip is crucial for precision cutting.
Before purchasing, read customer reviews and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Remember, regular maintenance and proper sharpening will help keep any knife, including a sushi knife, in optimal condition for a long time.