Are you in the market for the best fillet knife? If you are, you should know that we’ve checked out a host of these types of knives and chosen ten picks which are of superb quality. To help you find what’s exactly right for your needs, we’ve done the comparison-shopping for you!
Today, we’re going to share a list of the top 10 best fillet knives, as well as some facts about these handy kitchen knives. This buyer’s guide will make it easier for you to find a fillet knife which is a perfect match.
Top 10 Fillet Knife in the Market in 2018
There are plenty of different knives produced by different manufacturer giving different value and options to the users. The users need to analyze their needs and choose something which is absolutely suitable according to their requirements. The following is a list of the top 10 such utensils that will give users a good variety to choose from:
1. Wusthof Classic 7-Inch Fillet Knife With Sheath
This knife comes from a renowned brand and it measures 7.1 inches, which is a standard and versatile size. The knife is flexible and it’s perfect for deboning, skinning and filleting fish. Crafted from high carbon steel which is forged in order to provide incredible precision, this knife features an alloy which resists stains.
When you choose this model, you’ll access accurate tapering, due to Wusthof’s polishing and grinding procedure.
As well, you’ll gain access to a handle with a classic shape, which is made from synthetic materials. This knife is crafted within the globe’s “cutlery capital”, Solingen, Germany. German steel from this city is prized throughout the world.
Overall, this knife offers all of the properties and features that most people need. Its brand is first-rate and it’s not too expensive. It’s a good choice for the home chef.
2. Global Cromova Flexible Boning & Fillet Knife (6-21 – 6 1/4 inch, 16 cm)
This sleek and ultra-modern fillet knife is light in weight and features exceptional balance. It measures six and one quarter inches and features a blade with good flexibility. The blade of this design is crafted from molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel, which is technologically advanced.
The edge of this blade is designed to hold its high degree of sharpness very well.
This knife features a handle made from stainless steel, which is molded in order to provide lots of comfort to home or restaurant chefs. As well, the handle features dimples which ensure good grip (which means a safe knife). When you choose this design from respected knife manufacturer, Global Cromova, you’ll access a lifetime warranty for breakage and defects.
A lifetime warranty is fairly common with filleting knives, but it’s not a given. We like the fact that Global Cromova backs up what it sells by providing this type of long and strong warranty.
3. Victorinox Swiss Army 6 Inch Fibrox Pro Boning Knife with Flexible Blade
Victorinox Swiss Army is a brand that is trusted worldwide. The traditional Swiss Army knives produced by Victorinox are prized for their dependability and features, as well as their heritage. You’ll find the same level of quality in this pro boning knife from the same brand!
Equipped with a thin blade which is flexible, the knife provides stellar control and has a distinctive, S-shaped edge.
Use this knife to separate poultry or meat or to take fish off of the bone. Also, this design has an exclusive handle which is approved by The National Sanitary Foundation. The handle is a Fibrox Pro design and it minimizes tension in the user’s wrist.
As well, if offers wonderful grip. The blade of this design is made from high carbon stainless steel and it is ground with precision in order to create the perfect angle for super-sharpness!
This brand isn’t really associated with kitchen knives, but it should be. We’re showcasing this style today because the knife is strong, sharp and easy to hold. It’s reliable like a Swiss Army knife.
4. Shun DM0743 Classic Gokujo Boning and Fillet
Japanese fillet knives from great companies are coveted by professional chefs and home chefs. If you want to invest in a Japanese knife, you should consider this design from Shun. It’s a traditional Japanese Gokujo knife with a six-inch blade, which is ideal for filleting and boning fish.
Made right in Japan, with forging by KAI, this knife features thirty-three layers of stainless steel.
This knife is rust-proof and has the “Damascus” appearance that many people want from a fillet knife! This design features a handle crafted from Pakkawood, which has a D-shape that promotes plenty of pure comfort. The handle features a cap made from steel.
This knife should be washed by hand. This may be a drawback for some customers. Others won’t mind.
The dimensions of this knife are eleven by eight-ninths by one and four-fifths and it comes with a lifetime warranty of the limited type.
5. Mercer Culinary Millennia 8-Inch Narrow Fillet Knife
Mercer is a premium brand. In fact, Mercer knives are typically used in most North American culinary academies. If you want a knife from an excellent manufacturer, you don’t need to look any further.
Chefs and culinary instructors know that Mercer is world-class. It’s actually one of the best brands out there if you want something that a celebrated chef would use, too.
This design has a handle which is ergonomic, which is crafted from comfort-promoting Santoprene and durable Polypropylene. The knife features a finger guard for optimal protection, as well as finger points which are textured in order to provide safety, grip and slip resistance. Forged from Japanese steel which is stain-free and high-carbon (this steel is so easy to sharpen and maintain), this superlative fillet knife comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
6. Buck Knives 220 Silver Creek Folding Fillet Fishing Knife
A fillet knife should be really sharp and it should resist corrosion. This knife has both properties. Created by a legendary American manufacturer, the design from Buck measures six and a half inches and offers great flexibility.
The knife is forged from steel of the 420J2 grade and it is coated in titanium. When you choose this model, you’ll find that it resists wear and retains its hardness. What makes this style unique is the fact that it is a folding knife.
It weighs in at six ounces and it’s ideal for cutting through backbones easily. You’ll find that this knife gives you plenty of control. It’s a good choice for those who fillet on fishing trips, since it’s foldable and portable. However, it will work very well for everyone.
In addition to the benefits that we’ve already talked about, this knife comes with a grip which is anti-slip. It’s coated with rubber and has grooves which promote surer and safer grip. You’ll get a “forever” warranty with this model.
If you like to buy American, choosing a knife from Buck will be a smart choice. It is an American brand that has a rich and interesting heritage. While Buck is best known for tactical and hunting knives, it also creates superb kitchen knives.
7. Rapala4 Soft Grip Fillet / Single Stage Sharpener / Sheath under $50
This fillet knife features the renowned Rapala stainless steel blade. It offers excellent flexibility and it’s accented by a soft-grip handle which is textured and molded. When you choose this design, you’ll enjoy plenty of comfort and control as you fillet!
The fillet knife comes with a sheath which is black and which will fit onto your belt. As well, you’ll receive a sharpener which hones your blade in just one stage. It’s nice to get these accessories without needing to purchase them separately.
This knife has a sleek and modern look which is very stylized. It’s an attractive design. As well, it gets superb reviews from most people who buy it.
People use these knives to fillet game after hunting or to fillet fish while camping. They are also practical choices for home kitchens and commercial kitchens. Since it has all of the right features, as well as an affordable price tag, it’s a knife that we are happy to recommend.
The blade for this model measures seven and a half inches.
8. DALSTRONG Filet Knife – 7″ Flexible – Gladiator Series – German HC Steel – w/ Two Sheaths
This knife measures seven inches and it’s part of the Dalstrong Gladiator Series. This knife has been crafted with care in order to make skinning, trimming, filleting, de-boning and de-scaling faster and easier. This knife is also a great choice for butterflying.
The knife blade of this model measures one and a half millimeters in thickness from its spine. The blade is nice and flexible and it’s very simple to use. It moves through sinew and meat easily, between the bone and the skin.
This blade has a couple of covers. One of which is right for the kitchen and the other of which is right for outdoor adventures.
Made from “full tang” steel from Germany, this knife is razor-sharp and high-carbon. Its imported steel features an edge which is polished by hand. The attractive handle of this model is made from Pakkawood.
9. Morakniv Fishing Comfort Fillet Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade – under $30
This knife is crafted from stainless steel and its handle is a high-friction style which is patterned. Choose from a three and half inch blade or a six point one inch blade. The six point one inch style is very versatile.
The blade is great for filleting a lot of different fish of various sizes. This knife comes with a sheath that is plastic and slotted. It’s very easy to take care of and comes with a couple of belt clips. Choose clip-on or belt-loop.
The blade of this model is made with Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel. This steel is extremely sharp and very hard. It’s also exceptionally tough and resists corrosion very well.
The handle on this model is designed to offer the very best in grip. It’s nice to have this type of handle when cleaning fish. As well, we like the fact that this knife will not retain odors.
The thickness of this blade is .07 inches and the length of the blade is 6.1 or 3.5 inches, depending on the model purchased.
10. Bubba Blade 7 Inch Tapered Flex Fillet Knife
This knife measures thirteen inches and it’s tapered and flexible. It features a six-inch handle and a seven-inch blade. Constructed from one piece of stainless steel, this model features construction which is “full tang”.
The construction and fine materials used in this design promote stability and strength. If you want a balanced knife which won’t rust or pit, you’ll like this style. It comes with a non-stick coating and this means that meat slides right off of its blade.
Some knives aren’t non-stick and we definitely think that a non-stick finish helps during delicate deboning!
As well, this model has a trigger grip, so you’ll be able to put a bit of heat on it when you need to. It’s equipped with finger and thumb pads, both of which help home and pro chefs to enjoy more control.
Now that we have seen the list of 10 amazing fillet knives we come to the conclusion that it is not possible to choose which one is the best among them. The reason behind this is because even though they are all Boning and Fillet knives and they all pretty much have the same purpose they all bring something unique with them.
For instance, some of these knives were perfect replacements for chef’s knives that don’t really do the filleting and boning job perfectly. Others were good for filleting fish but not so good when it came to cutting meat. Few of these knives were kind of specific for a certain group of people, like fisherman or hunters.
When you look at them all one by one they each bring something different for the customer. The 10 knives mentioned in this article are all great knives. You should choose the one that fills all of your needs and go buy it. Keep in mind that whatever you chose you can’t go wrong with these knives.
Important aspects to care about while buying the best fillet knife:
There are a number of things which the buyer must care about when making such a purchase. It is not an easy job as it seems because there are a number of features and related factors which can affect your final decision. Therefore, the user must be careful about the product when making a purchase. The following are some critical points that will help users to make a carefully taken decision:
Material used
The first thing you should be considering when you are out to buy a fillet knife is the material used in the manufacturing of a particular knife. It’s important to inspect because a knife which is made of a low quality metal blade would not be able to serve you for the results you might expect from a fillet knife. As, for example, if the blade is made of a low quality metal it may get damaged or get bent while you are cutting something or it may get corroded after some time. Such materials are not good fits for cutting fine fillets and may not get you finely cut meat for your dishes.
The designs and handling
There should be special consideration given between the blade and the handle as there is a possibility of the liquid and other bacteria that can flow to your hands while cutting. A thick handle edge would definitely make it impervious for bacteria to flow to your hands. It is a tool that is dangerous to handle. Fatal hand injuries are a possibility due to the immense sharpness of the knives. Careful observation must be taken in terms of its safety procedures. The blade and the grip should be ideally adjusted where there is no chance of exposing the finger while filleting fish.
Specific purpose it serves
There are different products which are suitable for different needs. The texture, design and the size of the blade altogether defines the variety of jobs that can be done using the tool. All fishes might not be able to cut with every blade. For example, you need to have a longer, denser and a sharper blade for filleting large size fish.
Which is the best brand?
As a fact, the quality of the material used cannot be judged at a glance and you should be considering a brand that is the most trusted one. Never try to purchase from an unknown retailer or seller and always try to go for the one that has the best reviews. Trusted brands always offer quality material knives and would be a long lasting companion for your fishing ventures and cooking needs.
What you should know about the fillet knives:
There are a number of attributes which are particularly associated with fillet knives. The following is a list of some of the important things which will give you a useful idea about the different attributes associated with such knives:
- Blade Size – The size of the blade is the most pivotal consideration. It is the thing which defines your job. Small blade is for small cutting needs and suitable usually for limited domestic needs. The large blade size is preferred for large scale jobs in restaurants and fish shops where large size fishes are to be dealt with.
- The Material of the blade – The material of the blade is important in the sense that the tool is something which can easily get rusted due to its exposure to water and also considering the nature of the job. The stainless steel is an ideal option and all the well reputed manufacturers go for this option.
- Grip – Grip plays an imperative role, especially where the objectives are to get precision. The right control and command over the chopping job would only be possible if the grip is ideal, non slippery and comfortable.
- Flexibility – The fillet knives today are also flexible, which can bend a bit to do the job in a much effective way. If that is your priority, then find out the products that could suit your needs as all products doesn’t have this feature.
Which is best for you?
Definitely, you would need a knife that‘ll be cutting your fish finely, quickly and easily. A knife that gets stuck into the fillet or cuts roughly is not a fillet knife of anyone’s choice. If you don’t know how to choose the best for you and how you can be sure to get the right one, then don’t worry here is a checklist for you to follow while you buy the one that suits you the best:
Size of the fishes or fillet and the knife
Consider the size and type of fish you would be cutting frequently. It’s important because fillet knives come in various sizes to cater different types of fishes. As, for example, if you happen to hunt small sized fishes like bluegills or crappie then you may need to buy a small sized flexible knife. It’s because you don’t need a large sized knife as these fishes are very small in size and if you anticipate eating these fishes, then never buy a huge sized knife as it would make your fillet cutting rather tricky.
Next comes the flexibility of the blade
You should select a knife with a flexible blade if you need a small sized knife for small fillets. It’s because you will need to place the knife into the fillet with a little bent in a curved way. In contrast, if you need to get a large sized knife, then you must know that it should not be too much flexible. Because a very large sized knife that is also very flexible would not let you cut through the fillet nicely and easily. So if you need to choose a large sized knife, then you must go for a stiffer one.
Handle design
Another thing that would determine whether or not the knife is best for you is the handle design and grip. You should make sure that the knife you have picked fits your hand and provide a good grip to help you cut easily without any problem.
Considering these tips you would be able to choose the best product for your use.
When I first heard about fillet knife, I thought it’s just another tele advertisement on some miscellaneous knife products. But I feel I am wrong know. Going through this site, I got to learn more about fillet knife, specially the knives used to cut fish.
Now what’s pending is to wait until I receive my knife to check how’s that.
I have read all post of this site. I have got much more experience about best fillet knife. this site and post is really useful. I think it may be also helpful for a user.
I am here with the help of one of my friend, I just wanted know in detail about fillet knife. Before going through the models, I just went through the instructions. I am amazed, this is the first time I see a supplier/ dealer or and marketing position explains on how to chose the best product. I am aware and having the basic knowledge on best fillet knives now.
If anyone can help me, please tell me what is the special feature of it’s shape of Victorinox 47513 6-Inch Flex Boning Knife?? Because I am bit interested in that shape. Round handle will surely be convenient in holding the knife, but what about the shape of the blade. Can anyone answer me.
Hi Robert Sledge,
You can read review on here: https://filletknifeguide.com/victorinox-47513-6-inch-flex-boning-knife-with-fibrox-handle-review/
Thanks,
Cong
Hello,
What a great and complete review of best fillet knives for 2015 you’ve here! Awesome man…great work!
#1 and #4 looks the best to me. 🙂
Best Regards,
Ashaya
One knife, knowing its no longer made, that is certainly in the top ten is the Browning 909, with a 3″ section close to the tang having serrated edge for cutting through fish ribs. This has always been a favorite of mine. I own over 300 different fillet knives and this one is in the top ten, along with another called a Black Marlin, which is no longer made either. That is the finest of knives, certainly number one but expensive.
Dear CONCERN,
My name Habib. We operate a professional fish processing industry based in Bangladesh.
we need a huge quantity of Carbon Titanium knife for fish cutting. Any one suggest where i can found this types of knife. based in India.
my mail d: habibur@virgo.com.bd
Very informative and complete guide. I am very thankful to the author for helping me to choose the best possible knife available in the market. Thanks.
Hi Guys, what’s the difference between Stainless steel and Carbon steel?……I’m looking at a fish filleting knife and a shop assistant ( experienced knifer) told me he’d opt for carbon steel over stainless.
Which one would hold its edge the best Carbon or stainless?
Carbon steel is stronger, takes and holds a sharper edge than stainless but it must be kept clean and oiled or it will rust. Stainless doesn’t hold an edge as long as carbon but is far more resistant to rust.
used one it sucks ! would not waste the money ! if its a blood groove it would be a naff one its got sharp edges! noy what id be looknig for in a allround knife or EDC! looks like it takes some weight off but i think it makes the blade weak and less of a usable tool! good honest rewiew !
Well written article on fillet knife. Thanks for sharing this.
All these information on fillet knife is very beneficial for me. Thanks for sharing with us.
I am looking for help to find a replacement knive for one that has been passed down in my family. It is probably at least 50 years old. I think it might be a filet knive but not sure. It has a very thin, curved blade that has a slight served edge to it. It is small and lightweight but amazingly versatile to use. I’ve had two. I lost the original one which was even better but the one I still have has Burrell U S A just above the handle. The handle is actually plastic. I have pictures of it if anyone wants to see it and can help me track down a new one. It is mostly sentimental for me as it was my mother’s but also it is the best knife I’ve ever had for almost anything.
this is a good article. simple, direct and good information. i was unfamiliar with the Schmidt Bros blade. this on looks really nice. i’ve use the wusthof and shun. i may need to give this other one a try.
i particularly like that you stress the handle. this is a much overlooked area of choosing a knife. if if doesn’t feel right and comfortable in your hand, you just won’t use it.
thanks for the review and good info. good stuff on your other pages as well.