· Mason Everett · General · 10 min read
8 Best Left Handed Knives 2025 Reviews
Finding high-quality kitchen tools can be a challenge, but for the ten percent of the population that is left-handed, the search is often much harder.
Standard knives are designed with right-handed users in mind, from the handle ergonomics to the blade edge, making them awkward and sometimes unsafe for lefties.
In our comprehensive review of the Best Left Handed Knives, we’ve focused on key criteria like blade quality, ergonomic design, long-term durability, and overall value for money.
We also considered material safety and ease of maintenance to ensure our recommendations are both practical and reliable.
This guide will cut through the confusion and help you find the perfect knife that feels like a natural extension of your hand, transforming your kitchen experience.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
Lefty’s 4-Piece Kitchen Knife Set
This comprehensive set includes a chef, bread, steak, and paring knife, all ergonomically designed for left-handed users. It offers exceptional value and covers all essential kitchen tasks.
Lefty’s Left Handed Chef Knife
A true workhorse for any southpaw, this 8-inch chef knife features a sharp, durable stainless steel blade and a comfortable soft-grip handle. It makes chopping and dicing feel effortless and intuitive.
FLEXCUT Carvin Jack 2.0
This folding multi-tool is a woodcarver’s dream, specifically engineered for left-handed use. It packs six different carving blades into a compact, durable aerospace aluminum handle.
Mercer Culinary Yanagi Sashimi Knife
For the serious home chef or sushi enthusiast, this 10-inch sashimi knife offers professional-grade performance. Its single-edge blade is crafted from high-carbon German steel for razor-sharp, precise cuts.
Uprichya Left-Handed Sourdough Knife
Specifically designed for slicing through crusty homemade bread, this knife features a curved blade and an ergonomic sapele wood handle. It provides clean, uniform slices without crushing the loaf.
Pacific Handy Cutter S5L Safety Cutter
This is the ultimate utility knife for left-handed users in a warehouse or home setting. It features a retractable blade, a fixed steel guard for safety, and an integrated tape splitter.
Lefty’s Butter Spreader Knife
It may seem simple, but a properly designed butter spreader makes a huge difference. This knife is sharpened on the correct side for left-handed spreading and cutting of cheese or jellies.
Lefty’s Left Handed Paring Knife
An essential tool for detailed kitchen tasks, this paring knife offers incredible value. The sharp stainless steel blade and comfortable handle make peeling and trimming fruits and vegetables a breeze.
8 Best Left Handed Knives
Using a knife that fits your dominant hand isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety, precision, and efficiency. We’ve handpicked eight outstanding left handed knives that cater to different needs, from everyday cooking to specialized hobbies. Prepare to rediscover the joy of cutting with tools designed just for you.
Lefty’s 4-Piece Kitchen Knife Set
Best in class for all-around kitchen prep
The Lefty’s Left Handed Knives Set is a game-changer for any southpaw’s kitchen.
This four-piece collection provides the essential tools needed for daily food preparation, including an 8-inch chef knife, an 8-inch bread knife, a 4.5-inch steak knife, and a 3.5-inch paring knife.
Each blade is crafted from a strong stainless steel alloy, and more importantly, sharpened or serrated on the correct side for left-handed use.
This counters the natural twisting motion of a lefty’s cut, providing a clear line of sight and greater precision.
The handles have a handsome wooden effect but are made from a durable plastic with a soft grip, ensuring comfort and control.
This set is perfect for anyone setting up a new kitchen or finally upgrading to tools that truly fit.
Product Specs
| Set Includes | Chef, Bread, Steak, Paring Knife |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel Alloy |
| Handle Material | Soft Grip Plastic |
| Chef Knife Blade | 8 inches |
| Bread Knife Blade | 8 inches |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Features
- Complete 4-Piece Set: Includes chef, bread, steak, and paring knives for versatility.
- Left-Handed Ergonomics: Blades and handles are designed specifically for lefties.
- Stainless Steel Blades: Durable and sharp for reliable performance.
- Soft-Grip Handles: Wooden-effect plastic handles provide comfort and control.
- Dishwasher Safe: Offers easy cleanup and maintenance.
- Great Gift Idea: Perfect for any special occasion for the left-hander in your life.
What We Like
- Comprehensive set covers most kitchen needs
- Excellent value for four dedicated lefty knives
- Noticeably improves cutting comfort and precision
- Durable materials and construction
- Easy to clean and maintain
What We Don't Like
- Handle material is plastic with a wood effect, not real wood
- May not satisfy professional chefs seeking high-end steel
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this set as our best overall because it offers a complete, affordable solution to a common problem.
During our tests, the ergonomic handles felt secure and comfortable, significantly reducing wrist strain compared to right-handed knives.
The blades performed admirably, with the bread knife slicing cleanly without tearing and the chef knife handling chopping tasks with ease.
It’s a well-thought-out package that provides immediate, tangible benefits for any left-handed cook.
User Experience
Users consistently describe this set as a life-changing experience.
Many express surprise at how much easier and more natural cutting feels once they switch.
Praises are common for the comfortable grip and the sharpness of the blades right out of the box.
It’s frequently purchased as a thoughtful gift for left-handed friends and family members, who are often delighted to finally own a set of knives made specifically for them.
The dishwasher-safe feature also adds a layer of convenience that users appreciate.
Lefty’s Left Handed Chef Knife
Best in class for versatile chopping
If you're going to own just one high-quality knife, make it a chef knife.
This Lefty’s Left Handed Chef Knife is an indispensable tool, specifically engineered to give southpaws confidence and control.
The 8-inch stainless steel blade is sharpened on the correct side, allowing for straight, clean cuts without the blade pulling to one side.
It’s ideal for a wide range of kitchen tasks, from dicing onions and chopping carrots to mincing garlic and slicing meat.
The handle is a standout feature, with a comfortable soft-grip and a subtle wooden aesthetic that fits perfectly in the left hand.
This knife isn’t just a tool; it’s a solution that makes everyday cooking more enjoyable and efficient for left-handed individuals.
Product Specs
| Knife Type | Chef Knife |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel Alloy |
| Blade Length | 8 inches |
| Total Length | 12.5 inches |
| Handle | Soft Grip, Wooden Effect |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Features
- Ergonomic Lefty Design: Blade and handle tailored for left-handed use.
- 8-Inch Chef Blade: Versatile size for chopping, dicing, and slicing.
- High-Quality Stainless Steel: Ensures durability and a long-lasting sharp edge.
- Soft-Grip Handle: Provides a secure and comfortable hold.
- Dishwasher Safe: Simplifies the cleaning process.
- Counters Natural Twist: Allows for straight cuts and better visibility.
What We Like
- Excellent ergonomics reduce hand strain
- Very sharp and holds its edge well
- Great all-purpose kitchen knife
- Affordable price point
- Easy to care for
What We Don't Like
- Handle is not made of real wood
- Serrations mentioned in description may be confusing; it's a standard sharp edge
Why We Selected This Product
We chose this as the best chef knife because of its exceptional balance of performance, comfort, and price.
In our evaluation, the knife felt well-balanced and agile.
The blade's sharpness and correct grind made a significant difference in precision work, allowing our left-handed testers to make paper-thin slices with ease.
The ergonomic handle design prevents fatigue during prolonged use, which is a major plus for anyone who spends a lot of time prepping meals.
It’s a fantastic standalone knife for any lefty.
User Experience
Left-handed users often report an 'aha' moment when they first use this knife, realizing what they have been missing.
Feedback highlights its impressive sharpness and how it glides through vegetables instead of wedging into them.
The comfort of the handle is another frequently mentioned positive.
It’s recommended for both novice cooks and experienced home chefs who have been struggling with right-handed knives for years.
The overall sentiment is one of relief and satisfaction.
FLEXCUT Left Handed Carvin Jack 2.0
Best in class for on-the-go woodcarving
The FLEXCUT Carvin' Jack 2.0 is a masterpiece of functional design for left-handed woodcarvers.
This is not a kitchen knife, but a highly specialized folding multi-tool that puts a complete carving set into your pocket.
It includes six essential blades: a Detail Knife, Pelican Knife, Hook Knife, Straight Gouge, Gouge Scorp, and a V-Scorp.
The blades are crafted from 1095 high-carbon steel, known for its superb edge retention.
The innovative handle is made from cross-etched aerospace aluminum, providing an unshakeable grip and incredible durability.
This tool is designed for carvers who work with the blade towards themselves, the typical style for many left-handers.
It even comes with a sharpening strop and polishing compound to keep your blades in peak condition.
Product Specs
| Tool Type | Folding Woodcarving Multi-Tool |
| Blade Count | 6 |
| Blade Material | 1095 High Carbon Steel |
| Handle Material | Aerospace Aluminum |
| Orientation | Left-Handed |
| Made In | USA |
Features
- 6-in-1 Carving Tool: Includes six different blades for various carving tasks.
- Left-Handed Design: Optimized for lefties who carve towards themselves.
- High-Carbon Steel Blades: Made from 1095 steel for excellent edge retention.
- Aerospace Aluminum Handle: Durable, lightweight, and provides a secure grip.
- Portable and Compact: Folds like a pocket knife for easy transport.
- Includes Sharpening Supplies: Comes with a strop and polishing compound.
What We Like
- Incredibly versatile with six blade types
- Compact and perfect for travel
- Extremely durable and high-quality construction
- Blades are very sharp and hold an edge
- Specifically engineered for left-handed carvers
What We Don't Like
- Premium price point
- Can be stiff to open and close initially
- Not for kitchen use
Why We Selected This Product
This tool earned its spot for its sheer innovation and dedication to a niche craft.
We were impressed by the build quality and the thoughtful inclusion of six different carving profiles in one compact unit.
For our left-handed testers with a penchant for carving, the tool felt intuitive and robust.
The locking mechanism for the blades is secure, and the aerospace aluminum handle is both lightweight and rugged.
It’s a premium, portable solution that replaces a whole roll of individual tools, making it perfect for carving anywhere.
User Experience
Woodcarvers praise the Carvin' Jack 2.0 for its convenience and quality.
Users love being able to carry an entire set of tools in their pocket, ready for impromptu carving sessions.
The sharpness of the blades out of the box is a major highlight, and the high-carbon steel is appreciated for its ability to be honed to a razor edge.
Left-handed carvers specifically mention how the tool’s design makes intricate cuts easier and more comfortable compared to adapting right-handed tools.
Mercer Culinary Yanagi Sashimi Knife
Best in class for professional sushi prep
The Mercer Culinary Yanagi Sashimi Knife is a specialized tool for those who take their fish preparation seriously.
Designed in the traditional Japanese style, this 10-inch knife is specifically for left-handed users.
The blade is made from high-carbon, stain-free German steel and features a single-edge profile (chisel grind) that is essential for making the clean, precise, single-stroke cuts required for sashimi and sushi.
This type of grind prevents food from sticking and allows for incredibly thin slices.
The handle is a traditional D-shape, made from slip-resistant Santoprene, which offers a secure and comfortable grip even when wet.
NSF certified, this knife meets the high standards of professional kitchens but is an excellent choice for any home cooking enthusiast.
Product Specs
| Knife Type | Yanagi Sashimi Knife |
| Blade Material | High-Carbon German Steel |
| Blade Length | 10 inches |
| Blade Edge | Single Bevel, Left Hand Profile |
| Handle | D-shaped Santoprene |
| Certification | NSF Certified |
Features
- Left-Handed Single-Edge Blade: Specifically ground for left-handed sushi and sashimi preparation.
- High-Carbon German Steel: Provides a razor-sharp edge that is easy to maintain.
- 10-Inch Blade: Ideal length for slicing large pieces of fish in a single stroke.
- Traditional D-Shaped Handle: Ergonomic and slip-resistant Santoprene for superior grip.
- NSF Certified: Meets professional kitchen standards for safety and quality.
- Taper Ground: Blade is ground with a fine stone finish for ultimate sharpness.
What We Like
- Authentic single-bevel grind for lefties
- Extremely sharp and precise
- Excellent for slicing fish for sushi and sashimi
- Professional-grade materials and construction
- Comfortable and secure non-slip handle
What We Don't Like
- Highly specialized; not an all-purpose knife
- Requires hand washing and careful maintenance
Why We Selected This Product
We chose this knife for its professional-grade quality and authentic design tailored for left-handers.
A single-bevel knife is impossible for a lefty to use if it's ground for a righty, so this is a crucial product.
In our tests, the blade was exceptionally sharp, gliding through fish with zero effort.
The balance was superb, and the D-shaped handle provided excellent control for the delicate work of slicing sashimi.
It represents a significant step up in performance for anyone serious about Japanese cuisine.
User Experience
Users who purchase this knife are typically very pleased with its performance.
They rave about its razor-sharp edge and its ability to slice fish with surgical precision.
Many left-handed users who previously struggled with right-handed yanagibas call this knife a revelation.
The grip is consistently praised for being comfortable and secure.
While it is a specialized knife, those who use it for its intended purpose find it to be an invaluable tool that elevates their culinary creations.
Uprichya Left-Handed Sourdough Knife
Best in class for artisan bread slicing
For bakers of homemade bread, a good bread knife is non-negotiable.
The Uprichya Bread Knife is thoughtfully designed for left-handed users, addressing the common issue of right-handed serrations pulling the knife off-course.
This knife features a beautiful and sturdy solid sapele wood handle with a special camber for a more ergonomic left-handed grip.
The blade is thicker, wider, and sharper than many standard bread knives, with protruding serrations that effortlessly bite into crusty loaves without compressing the soft interior.
A unique feature is the embedded screws at both ends of the handle, allowing for easy blade replacement without damaging the wood over time.
This is a functional and beautiful tool for any lefty who loves to bake.
Product Specs
| Knife Type | Bread Knife / Bow Knife |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
| Handle Material | Solid Sapele Wood |
| Orientation | Left-Handed |
| Key Feature | Replaceable Blade |
| Best For | Sourdough and Homemade Bread |
Features
- Left-Handed Ergonomic Design: Wood handle is cambered for a comfortable left-hand grip.
- Superior Serrated Blade: Thicker, wider blade with protruding serrations for clean cuts.
- Replaceable Blade System: Embedded screws allow for easy blade changes without damaging the handle.
- Solid Sapele Wood Handle: Sturdy, beautiful, and provides a well-balanced feel.
- High-Quality Stainless Steel: Ensures durability and corrosion resistance.
- Effortless Slicing: Glides through crusty bread without crushing it.
What We Like
- Specifically designed for left-handed users
- Cuts through crusty bread cleanly
- Beautiful and durable sapele wood handle
- Blade is replaceable for long-term use
- Excellent ergonomic grip
What We Don't Like
- Primarily for bread; not a multi-purpose knife
- Wood handle requires hand washing
Why We Selected This Product
This knife stands out for its specific focus on the needs of left-handed bread bakers.
We selected it for its clever design, high-quality materials, and excellent performance.
During testing, it sliced through a tough sourdough crust with remarkable ease, producing clean, even slices.
The wooden handle feels substantial and comfortable, offering great control.
The replaceable blade is a huge bonus for long-term value, making this a tool that can last for many years.
It is a perfect blend of form and function.
User Experience
Left-handed bakers are thrilled with this product.
They report that it makes slicing homemade bread, especially sourdough, incredibly easy and satisfying.
The knife's ability to cut straight without angling is a frequently praised feature.
Users appreciate the solid feel of the sapele wood handle and the superior sharpness of the blade.
It's often described as both a beautiful object and a highly effective slicer, making it a popular gift for baking enthusiasts.
Pacific Handy Cutter S5L Safety Cutter
Best in class for safe box and package opening
The Pacific Handy Cutter S5L is a heavy-duty utility knife built with safety and functionality in mind, specifically for left-handed users.
This 3-in-1 tool is perfect for warehouse work, retail, or just opening packages at home.
Its primary feature is a retractable utility blade with three positions for controlled-depth cuts, protected by a fixed steel guard that prevents accidents and product damage.
The guard also acts as a guide for precise top-cutting.
In addition to the main blade, it includes a bladeless tape splitter to open sealed boxes without a knife, and a fold-out film cutter for shrink-wrap and plastic straps.
The handle houses a storage compartment for up to five extra blades, which can be changed without any tools.
Product Specs
| Tool Type | Safety Utility Knife |
| Orientation | Left-Handed |
| Key Features | Safety Guard, Tape Splitter, Film Cutter |
| Blade Storage | Yes (5 blades) |
| Blade Change | Tool-Free |
| Handle Material | High-Quality Metal/Plastic |
Features
- Left-Handed Design: Ergonomically built for left-handed operation.
- 3-in-1 Tool: Includes a main blade, tape splitter, and film cutter.
- Fixed Steel Safety Guard: Protects user and package contents while guiding cuts.
- 3 Blade Positions: Allows for precise, controlled-depth cutting.
- On-Board Blade Storage: Handle holds up to five replacement blades.
- Tool-Free Blade Change: Makes swapping blades quick and easy.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Built to withstand demanding environments.
What We Like
- Excellent safety features
- Very durable and rugged
- Multi-functional design is very practical
- Comfortable for left-handed use
- Convenient on-board blade storage
What We Don't Like
- Bulkier than a simple utility knife
- Primarily for utility tasks, not for kitchen or craft use
Why We Selected This Product
Safety and utility are paramount here.
We chose the S5L for its robust construction and multi-functional design tailored to lefties.
In our tests, the fixed steel guard proved invaluable, making top cuts on boxes fast, straight, and worry-free.
The different blade depths are practical for preventing damage to contents.
The integrated tape splitter and film cutter are genuinely useful additions that reduce blade wear and increase versatility.
It’s a tough, reliable tool that prioritizes user safety.
User Experience
Users in professional settings like warehouses and retail stores give this cutter high marks for its durability and safety features.
They appreciate the ergonomic left-handed design which makes repetitive cutting tasks more comfortable.
The on-board blade storage and tool-free change system are noted as major conveniences.
Home users also find it incredibly handy for breaking down boxes for recycling and opening difficult plastic packaging safely and easily.
Lefty’s Left Handed Butter Spreader Knife
Best in class for spreading and serving
It might seem like a small detail, but using a spreader designed for your dominant hand makes a noticeable difference.
The Lefty’s Left Handed Butter Spreader Knife is a simple yet brilliant tool.
Made from a single piece of strong, polished stainless steel, its blade is sharpened on the correct side for a left-handed user.
This allows you to easily cut cold butter, slice cheese, or scoop jelly and spread it smoothly without awkward wrist movements.
The 8-inch total length provides good reach into jars, and the polished finish gives it an elegant look suitable for any dining table.
It's a small upgrade that brings a surprising amount of satisfaction to daily routines like making breakfast.
Product Specs
| Tool Type | Butter Spreader Knife |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Total Length | 8 inches |
| Blade Length | 3.5 inches |
| Orientation | Left-Handed |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Features
- Correct-Side Sharpened Edge: Designed for intuitive left-handed cutting and spreading.
- One-Piece Stainless Steel Construction: Durable, hygienic, and easy to clean.
- Polished Finish: Creates an elegant look for serving guests.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for butter, cheese, jams, jellies, and other spreads.
- Dishwasher-Safe: Ensures simple and convenient cleanup.
- Ergonomic Feel: Comfortable to hold and use with the left hand.
What We Like
- Solves a common frustration for lefties
- Solid and durable stainless steel build
- Elegant and simple design
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Very affordable
What We Don't Like
- Edge is sharp enough for butter but not for heavy-duty cutting
- Single purpose tool
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product because it perfectly illustrates how thoughtful design can improve even the simplest tasks.
It’s a high-quality, durable spreader that solves a minor but persistent annoyance for lefties.
In our hands-on review, the difference was immediately clear.
Cutting and spreading with the left hand felt more natural and efficient.
The one-piece steel construction feels solid and is incredibly easy to clean, being fully dishwasher-safe.
It’s an affordable, practical item that genuinely makes life a little easier.
User Experience
Users are often surprised by how much they love this spreader.
Many comment that they never realized how much they were compensating with right-handed spreaders until they used this one.
It's praised for its sturdy feel, elegant appearance, and effectiveness in cutting and spreading.
It has become a popular and thoughtful gift, especially for holidays and housewarmings, as it's a unique item that shows consideration for a left-handed person's needs.
Lefty’s Left Handed Paring Knife
Best in class for detailed peeling and trimming
A paring knife is the tool for detail work, and this Lefty’s Left Handed Paring Knife ensures southpaws can perform those tasks with precision and ease.
Its 3.5-inch stainless steel blade is sharpened on the correct side, giving you a clear view and better control when peeling apples, trimming vegetables, or deveining shrimp.
The small size makes it nimble and easy to maneuver.
Like other knives from Lefty's, it features a durable plastic handle with a wooden effect and a comfortable soft grip that fits securely in the left hand.
This affordable knife is a must-have for any left-handed cook, tackling the small jobs that bigger knives can't handle.
Product Specs
| Knife Type | Paring Knife |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel Alloy |
| Blade Length | 3.5 inches |
| Total Length | 7.5 inches |
| Handle | Soft Grip, Wooden Effect |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Features
- Lefty-Specific Blade: Sharpened on the correct side for precision and visibility.
- 3.5-Inch Paring Blade: Perfect size for detailed kitchen tasks.
- Stainless Steel Durability: Strong alloy blade resists corrosion and holds an edge.
- Ergonomic Soft-Grip Handle: Ensures comfort and control during use.
- Versatile Kitchen Tool: Ideal for peeling, trimming, and intricate cuts.
- Dishwasher Safe: Makes for quick and easy cleanup.
What We Like
- Excellent for detailed work
- Very affordable and great value
- Ergonomic handle is comfortable and secure
- Sharp and durable blade
- Makes peeling and trimming much easier for lefties
What We Don't Like
- Plastic handle may not feel as premium as wood or composite
- Blade is very sharp and should be kept away from children
Why We Selected This Product
This knife earns its place for being an essential, well-designed, and highly affordable tool.
In our testing, it performed excellently on a variety of small-scale tasks.
Peeling potatoes felt fluid and safe, and creating garnishes was much more precise than with a right-handed equivalent.
The handle provides a confident grip, which is crucial for a knife used for in-hand work.
It offers fantastic performance for its price, making it an accessible and indispensable addition to any lefty's kitchen arsenal.
User Experience
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many people calling it the best paring knife they've ever used.
They appreciate how the correct blade orientation stops the knife from 'slipping' off fruits and vegetables.
Its sharpness and comfortable handle are frequently highlighted.
Many users buy it after being satisfied with the Lefty's chef knife or other products, completing their collection of essential left-handed tools.
It's seen as a simple, effective solution to a daily inconvenience.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Left Handed Knives
Choosing the right knife is a personal decision, but for left-handers, there are specific factors that can dramatically impact performance and safety. Here’s what to consider.
Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations
First, determine what you’ll be using the knife for. Are you looking for a versatile best chefs knives for daily chopping, a serrated knife for artisan loaves like the best bread knives, or a specialized tool like a sashimi knife? A general-purpose set is great for beginners, while a dedicated home cook might invest in individual, high-quality pieces tailored to their cooking style.
Budget - Setting realistic price expectations
Left handed knives range in price from around $15 for a simple paring knife to over $150 for a professional-grade sashimi knife. A good quality chef knife typically falls in the $25-$50 range. A full set, like our top pick, offers great value at under $60. Set a budget based on your needs, but remember that a good knife is an investment in your kitchen safety and enjoyment.
Key Features - Most important technical specifications
The most critical feature is the blade grind. For serrated and single-bevel (chisel-edge) knives, the grind MUST be on the left side of the blade for a left-handed user. For standard double-bevel knives, the handle’s ergonomic shape is the key differentiator. Look for descriptions that explicitly state ‘left-handed design’. Blade material (stainless steel vs. high-carbon) and handle material (wood, composite, plastic) also affect performance and maintenance.
Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction
A well-made knife should feel balanced in your hand. Look for full-tang construction (where the blade steel runs all the way through the handle) in higher-end knives, as this provides superior strength and balance. The handle should be securely attached with no gaps. A durable blade will hold its edge longer, requiring less frequent sharpening.
Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers
Brands like Lefty’s The Left Hand Store specialize exclusively in products for southpaws, ensuring their designs are genuinely functional. Established culinary brands like Mercer also produce high-quality left-handed versions of their popular knives. Sticking with reputable brands often guarantees better quality control, customer service, and warranty support. If you are also interested in japanese knives, consider reading our guide on best japanese knives.
Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage
Consider the size of the knife and how you will store it. A full knife block can take up significant counter space. Individual knives can be stored on a magnetic strip or in a drawer with blade guards. For specialized tools like the FLEXCUT carving knife, portability is a key feature, allowing you to take your hobby on the go.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy left handed knives?
For many left-handers, investing in a true left handed knife is a revelation. The difference goes far beyond simple comfort. Using a right-handed knife, especially a serrated or single-bevel one, forces a lefty to hold their wrist at an unnatural angle to achieve a straight cut. This not only leads to fatigue and strain but also significantly increases the risk of the blade slipping, which is a major safety concern. A proper left-handed knife is ground and serrated on the correct side, allowing the knife to cut straight and true with a natural motion.
Compared to the alternative of just ‘making do’, the benefits are enormous. Precision improves, food prep becomes faster and more enjoyable, and the entire cooking process feels more intuitive. While the initial cost might be a slight deterrent, think of it as an investment in your safety and culinary passion. The frustration and potential danger of using the wrong tool day after day are simply not worth the small savings. A good knife can last for decades with proper care, making the long-term value of a tool that truly fits you undeniable. For any lefty who spends time in the kitchen, it is an exceptionally wise decision.
What Is the Best Way to Choose left handed knives?
Navigating the world of cutlery can be daunting, but a systematic approach will help you find the perfect left-handed knife for your needs.
1. Assess Your Primary Cooking Tasks: Start by identifying what you cut most often. If you’re constantly chopping vegetables and proteins, your priority should be a high-quality chef knife. If you bake your own bread, a dedicated left-handed bread knife will be a game-changer. For those who prepare a lot of fish, a specialized knife like one of the best boning knives or a Yanagiba is essential. Don’t buy a full set if you’ll only use two of the knives.
2. Set a Realistic Budget: Decide how much you are willing to invest. You can find excellent entry-level options that offer huge improvements over right-handed knives. If you’re a passionate cook, it may be worth spending more on a premium knife with better steel and construction that will last a lifetime.
3. Prioritize Handle Ergonomics: Since you’ll be holding this tool frequently, comfort is key. Look for handles that are specifically contoured for a left-hand grip. Materials like soft-grip synthetics or D-shaped wooden handles are often more comfortable for prolonged use than simple, ambidextrous designs.
4. Understand Blade Types:
- Double Bevel: Most Western knives (like chef knives) are sharpened on both sides. For these, the handle ergonomics are the most important lefty feature.
- Single Bevel / Chisel Edge: Many Japanese knives and some specialty knives are sharpened on only one side. For a lefty, the sharpening MUST be on the left side of the blade (when looking down from the handle).
- Serrated: Bread and steak knives have serrations. For a lefty, these should also be on the left side to prevent the knife from pulling away from your cutting line.
5. Avoid Common Mistakes: A common mistake is buying an ‘ambidextrous’ knife, assuming it will work equally well. While usable, they lack the specific ergonomic benefits of a true left-handed design. Another pitfall is ignoring maintenance; even the best knife needs to be kept sharp and clean to perform well.
FAQ
What is the best left handed knives for beginners? For a beginner, the Lefty’s Left Handed Knives Set of 4 is an excellent starting point. It provides all the essential knives (chef, bread, steak, paring) with proper left-handed ergonomics at a very affordable price. This allows a new cook to experience the benefits across all common kitchen tasks without a huge initial investment.
How much should I spend on left handed knives? You can get a great single left-handed paring or chef knife for $15 to $30. A comprehensive set might cost around $50 to $70. For premium or highly specialized knives, like a Japanese sashimi knife, prices can exceed $100. Your budget should align with how often you cook and the importance of quality to you.
What features are most important in left handed knives? The single most important feature is the blade design. For serrated or single-bevel knives, the serrations or cutting edge must be on the left side. For all knives, an ergonomically shaped handle that is comfortable and secure in the left hand is crucial for safety and to reduce fatigue during use.
How do I maintain my left handed knives? Maintenance is the same as for right-handed knives. Hand wash them with mild soap and dry them immediately to prevent rust and keep the handle in good condition, even if they are listed as dishwasher safe. Sharpen them regularly using a whetstone or a quality knife sharpener to maintain a keen edge.
Are expensive left handed knives worth it? Yes, if you are a serious home cook or professional. More expensive knives typically use higher-quality steel that holds an edge longer and is more durable. They often have better balance and more refined handle construction. For a casual cook, a budget-friendly option is usually more than sufficient.
What brands make the best left handed knives? Lefty’s The Left Hand Store is a fantastic brand that specializes exclusively in left-handed products, so their designs are very well thought out. For more professional-grade options, brands like Mercer Culinary offer specific left-handed models of their high-quality knives, especially for specialized culinary tasks like sushi preparation.
How long do left handed knives typically last? With proper care, a good quality knife can last for decades, even a lifetime. The lifespan depends on the quality of the steel, the construction of the handle, and how well you maintain it. Regular sharpening and proper cleaning are key to ensuring your knife remains a reliable kitchen companion for years to come.
Can I find good left handed knives on a budget? Absolutely. Brands like Lefty’s offer several excellent options, such as their standalone paring knife or chef knife, for a very reasonable price. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a functional, well-designed knife that will dramatically improve your cutting experience compared to a right-handed model.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and review, our top recommendation for the best left handed knives is the Lefty’s Left Handed Knives Set of 4. This set offers incredible value, providing all the essential kitchen knives—chef, bread, steak, and paring—with true left-handed ergonomic design. It’s the perfect solution for anyone looking to equip their kitchen properly without breaking the bank.
For those on a tighter budget or who only need a single tool for small tasks, the Lefty’s Left Handed Paring Knife is an unbeatable choice. It’s sharp, comfortable, and makes detail work effortless.
If you are a culinary enthusiast seeking a premium, specialized tool, the Mercer Culinary Yanagi Sashimi Knife is in a class of its own. Its professional-grade, single-bevel blade offers the precision required for perfect sashimi, a task impossible for a lefty with a standard knife.
Ultimately, the right knife will make your time in the kitchen safer, more efficient, and far more enjoyable. Choose the option that best fits your cooking style and budget, and prepare to experience the difference a purpose-built tool can make.
