Messermeister Meridian Elite 10-inch Chef's Knife

Professional kitchens reach for a 10-inch chef’s knife when the prep list runs long, and Messermeister built this Meridian Elite version for heavier tasks and larger ingredients. Halving a head of cabbage, splitting a butternut squash or working through a case of onions all go faster with the extra length.

A longer blade also carves a roast or a whole turkey breast in fewer strokes, which keeps slices neat. The fine Elite edge means the knife cuts cleanly despite its size, so it does not have to be forced through dense produce. The bolsterless heel lets a sharpening stone reach the full length of the edge, which prevents the dip, known as a bird’s beak, that develops on older bolstered German knives. Line cooks and caterers rely on this length, and it is also a fit for a home cook with a large board who cooks for a crowd. If you have big hands, the 10-inch can feel better balanced in the grip than a shorter knife.

Shorter Options

For more control, step down to the 9-inch. The 8-inch Chef’s Knife is the standard size.