(checked 2026-10-10)Wirecutter warns that counterfeit Mac knives have been sold on Amazon; check that the seller is authorized.
Wirecutter's pick since 2012 and a top pick at Good Housekeeping and Food & Wine: very sharp, agile and comfortable, with a shape between German and Japanese styles. It can get rust spots if not dried right away, Serious Eats found its edge dulled quickly over years of use, and fakes have been sold on Amazon.
Top complaints
- Rust and stain spots
Wirecutter notes Amazon reviewers complaining about staining; Mac told Wirecutter rust spots can appear if the knife isn't rinsed and dried after acidic foods. Good Housekeeping's lab sample developed a couple of small rust spots.
Source: Wirecutter, Good Housekeeping - Edge can dull or chip
Serious Eats says its own Mac has dulled rapidly over a few years of daily use. Food & Wine found it came out of the box a bit duller than competitors and bruised herbs. Amazon's summary says some owners report the edge chips easily.
- Counterfeits and warranty rules
Wirecutter says poor-quality fakes have been sold on Amazon (a staffer received one in 2024) and Mac's 25-year warranty is void if bought from an unauthorized seller. Amazon owners are mixed on value for money.
What owners love
- Very sharp and holds its edge
Wirecutter calls it crazy sharp with excellent edge retention, and a Le Coucou chef said it held the best edge. Good Housekeeping's chief food director says it is reliable and stays sharp. Amazon owners say it stays sharp a long time.
- Comfortable and agile
Wirecutter says all testers found it comfortable and most named it their top choice. Food & Wine calls it lightweight, balanced and easy to control at 6.75 oz. Amazon owners say it doesn't cause hand fatigue.
- Works for any cutting style
Wirecutter says the blade is curved enough for rocking but straight enough for push-pull cutting, and less likely to chip than harder Japanese gyutos.
Source: Wirecutter
- You leave knives wet in the sink
- You have very large hands (one Wirecutter tester found the handle too small)
- You won't check that the seller is authorized
- One knife for both rocking and push-pull cutters
- Cooks who want a sharp, light, agile blade
- Fish, herbs and everyday prep
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Top pick (September 2026): razor-sharp, comfortable and reliable, a pick since 2012. Can rust if not dried; buy only from authorized sellers.
- Good Housekeeping: Best for pros (January 2026): thin, precise, lightweight and sharp, but developed small rust spots in the lab.
- Food & Wine: Best Japanese-style (June 2026): light, balanced and comfortable, but came out of the box a bit duller and bruised herbs.