Global Knives: Steel, Design, and Which Series is Best for You

The Global Classic series is the brand's flagship and best-selling line. These are the knives that brought Global worldwide recognition, thanks in part to Anthony Bourdain's recommendation in his book Kitchen Confidential (2000). With a spine thickness of 2 mm at the heel for the 8" chef's knife, Classic knives are extremely lightweight, razor sharp, and highly maneuverable.

They are the most "pure" Global experience with their iconic dimples, slender profile, and a thin, nimble blade. If you want to try the original Japanese design that revolutionized how many chefs view knives, the Classic series is the perfect place to start.

As you can see in the photos below, the handle design varies according to the blade size. Smaller Global knives in the classic series have a more pronounced handle belly, which aids in grip when using smaller knives off the board for more intricate techniques. The Global Knives Classic series also offers the widest variety of knife styles.

The Global Ukon series is essentially a heavier, bolder take on the Classic. Compared to the spine thickness of the 8" Classic Chef's Knife, which measures 2 mm, the Ukon 8" Chef's knife has a spine of 2.5 mm at the heel, providing the knife with more weight while maintaining the same sharpness and stainless steel construction.

The handle is boxier and less dimpled at the back, offering a different grip compared to the slim Classic profile. Ukon is ideal if you like the look and performance of Global but want a knife with more heft in the hand. But hold on tight, before more heft is to come!

The Global Sai series stands out with its tsuchime (hammered) finish and redesigned handle. The spine is around 2.3 mm, placing it between the Classic and Ukon in terms of weight. The hammered tsuchime finish facilitates food release, similar to knives with hollows on the sides.

The Sai handle has a more pronounced belly, a wider grip, and a right-handed thumb groove at the top. This makes it one of the most comfortable Global handles for users with larger hands or those who prefer a more substantial grip.

Chef B here! I've used this Global Knives Sai Nakiri since culinary school, circa 2014ish. I have used and abused this blade for over a decade. I learned how to use a knife with big 10" heavy German knives. When I first picked up the Classic G-2, I found myself missing the weight. So, when I gripped the Sai Nakiri, I loved the weight, but more importantly, the edge! Now, I love lightweight Japanese knives, but thanks to the Sai, I was able to transition with a sense of familiarity.

Exclusive to Cutlery and More, the Global Model X takes everything to the next level. It is 40% heavier than the Classic, with an 8-inch chef’s knife measuring 4 mm at the heel, it's double the thickness of the Classic.

The handle also features a more pronounced transition from the blade, providing a bolster-like feel that adds stability at the pinch grip. Combined with the thicker spine and added weight, the Model X delivers a cleaver-like chopping power while retaining a sharp Japanese edge.

This series is perfect for barbecue lovers, professionals breaking down large cuts of meat, or anyone who prefers the weight of a heavy German blade but wants a modern Japanese design.

The most unique blade among the Global Knives lineup is the 12" Brisket Slicer. Buyer Beware, you may notice larged biceps after using this big, beefy blade

Global knives are among the easiest Japanese knives to maintain.

• Always hand wash and dry immediately but never put them in the dishwasher.

• Use a medium-soft cutting board, such as walnut, larch, or hinoki wood.

• Hone regularly with a ceramic rod or leather strop to keep the edge aligned.

• Because of their lower Rockwell hardness, Global knives are very straightforward to sharpen at home with  Whetstones or Global Sharpeners.

Compared to harder Japanese knives, Global knives are forgiving and durable, making them a great introduction to Japanese cutlery.

Global knives blend Japanese sharpness with modern, user-friendly design. With their seamless stainless steel construction, distinctive dimpled handles, and approachable steel, they remain one of the most practical choices for home cooks and professionals alike.

From the nimble Classic to the heavyweight Model X, there’s a Global for every cooking style. The question isn’t whether they perform, it’s simply which feel and balance you prefer in your hand.

• If you're looking for the simplest design, slender profile, and iconic look, along with the most budget friendly option, go with Global's largest selection, the Classic series.
• If you want a similar feel to the classic, with a little extra weight and a bolder handle design, the Ukon is for you. 
• Looking for a larger handle profile and a tsuchime finish to aid with food release? If so, the Sai is your choice.
• For those looking for a beefy set of BBQ knives that have a cleaver-esque weight and edge profile, but can still perform everyday prep tasks, check out the Model X series!

Regardless of which Global Knives series you decide to go with, or maybe mix and match, you're going to enjoy using any of these iconic Japanese knives. Remember, they are unique, sharp, balanced, and are some of the easiest Japanese knives to maintain.