Small chef's knife

What is a small chef's knife?

We classify all chef's knives with a blade length of up to 18 cm as small chef's knives. Some models are even extra compact, with a blade of just 11 cm. The length that suits you best depends on how much control you want, what you feel comfortable with, and the ingredients you're using. Do you mainly cut smaller ingredients, such as an onion or chicken fillet? Then a large chef's knife is often not necessary. Pro tip: also pay attention to the length of the handle, because this largely determines how comfortable the knife feels in the hand.

Within one series, manufacturers often offer variants with a smaller blade, for example 16 cm, alongside the ''regular'' 20 cm chef's knife. The style remains the same, but the smaller size is more pleasant for those who find a large knife unnecessary or less comfortable to use. The blade shape and cutting technique are similar: even with a small chef's knife, you can effortlessly make the familiar rocking cutting motion thanks to the relatively curved edge.

Other types of chef's knives

A small chef's knife is also a versatile addition to a larger chef's knife. For beginners or young cooks, a children's chef's knife can be a good first step. Those who like refined cutting work often choose a Japanese chef's knife.