Knives come in different designs and also differ in terms of performance. Ulu knives, in particular, have crescent-shaped blades that allow for smooth and effortless cutting.
They are not only efficient but also versatile, meaning they can assist you in multiple ways when prepping a wide range of foods.
As such, ulu knives can be used for mincing and chopping applications, so they can be a great addition to your knife collection.
That being said, you can use these knives when cutting vegetables, meat, herbs, cheese, pizza, just to mention but a few.
Besides, they are fitted with ergonomically designed handles that will allow you to rock the blade without straining your wrists.
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11 Best Ulu Knife
Our Top Pick: Ulu Factory Ulu Bowl set Birch Handle AK Cutlery
- Inupiat Ulu 6" Blade and 8"x8" Chopping Bowl
The Ulu Factory presents you with a high-performance ulu knife that you can use for chopping and mincing.
Thanks to its utilitarian design, this tool will deliver exceptional results in all cutting applications, thus making it an excellent option for all users.
Besides, it is easy to use, so it won’t matter whether you are a professional ulu knife user or if it’s your first handling a knife of this type. And the best part is that you can use it when cutting vegetables, meat, herbs, cheese, and other foods.
The blade is crafted from high-quality stainless steel and is uniquely curved for user convenience.
When used correctly, this knife will help you get the work done within the shortest time possible.
The cutting edge covers the entire length of the blade from point to point, making the knife even more efficient.
In addition to this, the blade is securely attached to the handle by two rivets to increase stability. This knife offers excellent edge retention, so you won’t have to worry about the blade dulling prematurely.
On top of that, it is easy to sharpen, so you can effortlessly grind the cutting surface to your preferred level of sharpness.
The upper part of the handle is ergonomically curved to give you a firm grip. Aside from that, the grip area is soft-textured for user comfort.
Upon purchase, you will also get a two-tone cutting board that can assist when using the knife.
One side of the board is flat while the other is shaped like a bowl. The latter will allow you to chop the food without scattering the chopped pieces all over your kitchen counter.
Pros
- Heavy-duty design
- Easy to clean
- Comes at a favorable price
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
Best High-End: R Murphy Ulu Mincing Chopping Cutting Knife
- ✅ 420HC High Carbon Stainless Steel - The blade is precision ground, hand edged and honed resulting in a superior, long-lasting razor sharp cutting edge.
- ✅ Professional Durable Handle - Contoured handle is hand polished and designed for comfort. Stabilized Walnut.
This ulu knife is just as efficient as the one that we have just reviewed, so you can rest easy knowing that it will provide you with good results.
It comes with a 7″ 420HC high carbon stainless steel blade that offers superior edge retention and decent corrosion resistance.
Moreover, the blade is cryogenically treated to boost strength and the knife’s overall durability.
Additionally, you will receive the knife with a razor-sharp edge that allows for smooth and effortless cutting.
More to this, the cutting surface is precision ground to ensure that you get clean cuts when using this knife.
This knife is very versatile and can assist you in multiple ways when in the kitchen. It can mince and chop with exact precision, making this one of the reliable options that you should consider adding to your cutlery collection.
The blade is hand-honed with your cutting needs in mind while the handle is contoured to maximize comfort.
As such, it will fit perfectly in the palm of your hand, thereby preventing slippage. The handle and the blade are held in place by two brass rivets to ensure that the knife stays intact during usage.
To make it even better, the knife is meticulously balanced, so you can rock the blade back and forth without experiencing any problem.
Pros
- Pre-sharpened
- Great edge retention
- Expertly crafted
Cons
- Hand-wash only
Best for Comfort: BUBBA ULU Knife
- DIMENSIONS: 5" Overall Height; 5. 75" Blade Width
- RELIABLE: Patented Bubba Blade Non-Slip Grip handle ensure the ULU stay firmly anchored in your hand even when wet
The high-quality ulu knife by Bubba features a non-slip handle that is designed for comfort. It reduces wrist fatigue and will enable you to use the knife for long hours without experiencing any discomfort.
Plus, the soft-touch polymer from which the handle is made offers a non-slip grip, so you will have full control over the knife at all times.
Also, the grip area is conveniently textured and is also molded to match the contour of your hand. Besides, you can even handle the knife with wet hands without losing your grip.
The 420HC stainless steel blade is just over five inches long and purposefully curved to increase the surface area of the edge. This not only increases performance but also allows for effortless cutting.
To get maximum results, you should consider using the rocking technique since it allows the blade to glide smoothly as you cut the food.
The good thing about this knife is that it can prove helpful in different scenarios and can also come in handy when prepping a wide range of foods.
You can use it when cutting meat, fish, cheese, vegetables, just to mention but a few. The surface of the blade is coated in titanium nitride to keep rust at bay, so the knife won’t stain provided that you give it proper care.
To top it all up, the knife has an integrated bottle opener that you can use for cracking open a cold one with your buddies.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed
- Versatile
- Easy to sharpen
Cons
- Dulls over time
Honorable Mention: Alaskan Ulu, Legendary Knife of the Arctic
- Finally, a rocker knife worthy of great chefs! Ulu knives have a unique design which increases dexterity and leverage, making fine cuts simple and chopping easier.
- The blade is made of stainless steel and has a large, easy to grip wooden handle. This is an excellent tool for single-handed people or people with weak hands.
Are you in quest of a high-quality ulu knife that is equally efficient? If so, this tool may just end your search.
The manufacturer has only used materials that are of superior quality, thereby providing you with a rocker knife that you can fully rely on.
To elaborate on this, the 6″ blade is crafted from stainless steel to increase durability and performance.
Attached to the blade is a large handle that is ergonomically designed for user comfort. This knife is easy to maneuver and will also provide you with maximum leverage when breaking down different types of food.
By using this knife, you will be able to accomplish your culinary chores within a limited duration.
The blade offers optimum cutting power and is also factory-sharpened for your convenience. That being said, you can use this ulu knife right out of the box.
It doesn’t end there, it has great edge retention and good wear resistance. On the downside, the blade may lose its edge after repeated use, so ensure that you use it correctly to prolong durability.
However, it is easy to sharpen, allowing for effortless honing. The walnut handle is riveted at two points to boost stability.
To add to this, the blade is weighted to increase performance while the easy-grip handle is contoured to reduce user fatigue.
Lastly, this knife comes with a well-designed stand that will keep the blade safe during storage.
Pros
- Conveniently designed
- Reliable
- Cuts effortlessly
Cons
- The blade has a single bevel design
Best for Chopping Herbs: Poshland RK-TTC-109 Damascus Ulu Kitchen Knife
- Handmade Gorgeous Demascus ULU Knife
- Olive wood and Nut wood handle
Poshland’s high-grade ulu knife can be an excellent addition to your kitchen. This knife is specially designed for chopping applications but you can as well use it for mincing.
It performs exceptionally when it comes to cutting herbs and vegetables, thanks to its versatile design.
Nonetheless, it can also be used for cutting pizza, cheese, and other foods. The knife features an extra-wide blade that will enable you to cut with the utmost ease.
In addition to this, it is weighted to maximize performance and also comes with an ultra-sharp edge.
The blade is constructed from high-quality alloy steels that will provide you with long-lasting service. Not just that, the blade is made up of multiple layers of steel, so don’t expect it to break.
It is expertly tempered to a Rockwell hardness of 58-60 HRC, making it even more durable. The blade holds its edge well and is equally resistant to wear.
Furthermore, the rosewood handle scales are triple-riveted for stability purposes, so they won’t come loose. More on the blade, it is hand forged and sharpened with every user’s need in mind.
Pros
- Comes with a durable leather sheath
- The blade has an attractive Damascus pattern
- Durable
Cons
- Susceptible to rust
Most Ideal for Hunting: Ridge Runner Modified Ulu Knife
- This modified ulu knife makes a great addition to your hunting gear, especially, to add to your field dressing tools
- The full-tang stainless steel blade has a 4 1/4â€, curved ulu edge and features a finger ring and jimping for control when using
With an overall length of 6.5″ and an edge that is 4.25″ long, this ulu knife can assist you in countless ways when you are out in the wild.
It is slightly modified to ensure that you get good results when tackling heavy-duty tasks. Besides, it features a full tang construction, thus making it even more reliable.
As such, it will provide you with more leverage, allowing for smooth cutting. The blade is coated in a black oxide layer to prevent corrosion and rust, meaning it won’t stain.
Additionally, the handle scales are securely riveted to the tang to give you a sturdily built knife that you can count on.
The handle is not only contoured but also has jimping that provides users with a non-slip grip.
As a result, you will have full control throughout the cutting process. This knife can be used for field dressing applications when you are on the hunt. The included finger ring offers a comfortable grip that is also firm.
And like the knife just before it, this ulu knife comes with a sheath that you can use during storage or when the tool is in transit. The sheath has strong Velcro closures that will ensure the knife stays in place.
Pros
- Well-designed
- Factory-honed
- High performance
Cons
- The sheath is not as durable
Best Single Bevel: Alaska Ulu Knife by The Ulu Factory
- This ulu set is a unique Made-in-Alaska product, featuring Alaskan Birch and American Walnut wood!
- A stainless steel blade sharpened on only one side in traditional Alaska Native fashion!
This knife comes in a set that is inclusive of a cutting board and a stand. The stainless steel blade is only beveled on one side, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not efficient. In fact, it will allow you to make clean cuts while applying the least amount of effort.
Also, it comes pre-sharpened, so you can put it to use right away. The blade offers good wear resistance, great edge retention, and decent corrosion resistance.
Plus, it is sharpened from tip to tip to increase performance. This knife can particularly assist when chopping vegetables and herbs. However, it can also work on other types of food, so it will all depend on how you use it.
The wooden handle is conveniently designed with your needs and comfort in mind, so you can rest assured that you won’t lose your grip when using this knife.
To add to this, the handle is firmly attached to the blade by stainless rivets. This ulu knife is highly maneuverable, so you won’t have a hard time chopping the food into smaller pieces.
The included cutting board has a bowl-like design and allows for quick and easy cutting. With this ulu knife chopping vegetables will no longer be a problem for you.
Moreover, it is lightweight and is also well balanced to give the user maximum control.
Pros
- Quality construction
- Built to last
- Dependable
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
Best Mid-Range: Lamson Ulu Knife
- The Lamson Ulu Knife is a really versatile kitchen tool, great for cutting all sorts of meats, vegetables, cheeses, fish, seafood and can also function as a mini pizza rocker!
- Features hardened and tempered high-carbon 420HC stainless steel blade, walnut handles that are hard and durable (natural color may vary), and half-tang construction secured with brass rivets
Lamson provides you with a sturdily built ulu knife that will greatly boost your performance when in the kitchen.
Coming from a brand that has been making knives for over a century, you can go for this knife knowing that it will last. It is a favorite among chefs due to its amazing features and efficiency.
With that being said, you can use this knife when cutting fruits, vegetables, meat, herbs, cheese, fish, etc.
The blade measures 6.25″ and is made of 420HC stainless steel for enhanced durability. In addition to this, it is tempered to prevent breakage when the knife is in use.
And like most ulu knives on our review list, this knife is fitted with a durable walnut handle that will provide you with a secure grip.
It has good knuckle clearance, so the upper part of the blade won’t hurt your fingers when you are working. The knife has a half-size tang and is dual-riveted to give the user a reliable handle.
Since the blade is uniformly curved, it will deliver precise cuts in all applications, so it won’t matter whether you are mincing or dicing, this knife will provide you with professional-grade results.
When it comes to durability, you will be happy to know that the knife is crafted from materials that are of high quality.
The cutting edge is finely polished to a razor-sharp surface that will allow you to make the required cuts without straining yourself. Also, the two rivets holding the handle are strategically placed to maximize stability.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Practical design
- Holds its edge well
Cons
- Likely to rust if not given proper care
Best Budget Buy: Arctic Circle Alaska Ulu Knife
- Natural Earth-Tone & Reds Colored Wood^ulu knife standard blade stainless steel^#1 Imported Souvenir^Boxed^Stand Included
This rocker knife has all the features that you may look for in an ulu knife. It is durable, reliable, and also efficient, thus making it a suitable option for all users.
The blade is forged from high-quality stainless steel and also comes pre-honed for user convenience.
It offers great edge retention and is also resistant to rust. However, the cutting edge may stain if the blade is not given proper care.
The other thing that we liked about this ulu knife is that it is exceptionally versatile, so you can use it when preparing meat, cheese, veggies, nuts, and many more.
What’s more, the edge is precision ground to ensure that you get a high-performance blade that will help you accomplish tasks with ease.
Plus, this knife is easy to sharpen, so you won’t have a hard time shaping the edge in case it dulls.
With the right sharpener, you’ll be able to edge the blade according to your preference. The included stand is made of high-grade wood to increase durability.
With the stand in place, the blade will stay in top-class condition throughout the period that you will be having this knife. Both the handle and the stand are beautifully crafted for aesthetic purposes.
Pros
- Favorable price
- Built to last
- High quality
Cons
- The blade must be kept dry during storage to prevent rusting
Best Heavy-Duty: Gil Hibben GH5074 Legacy Ulu Knife
- Crafted from the highest quality materials
- Built for performance and durability
The GH5074 from Gil Hibben is constructed from premium quality materials, so it can take on just about any task that you may throw at it.
Additionally, it comes with a uniquely designed handle and an expertly crafted blade, both of which are designed for performance.
Plus, the 6.5″ 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blade features a razor-sharp cutting edge that will simplify your work when mincing or chopping.
It is tempered to prevent chipping, so you won’t have to worry about durability. Aside from having a long handle, the knife has a finger hole that offers a secure grip.
More on the handle, it is triple-riveted, so the tang won’t come loose. The blade is beveled to create a reliable cutting surface that you can use when chopping both soft and tough foods.
This ulu knife provides users with maximum control, so the cuts will come out exactly how you want them to.
The handle and the blade are perfectly balanced, allowing for easy maneuverability. This means you can move the knife in a rocking motion without it going off course.
Pros
- Resistant to rust
- Professionally designed
- Easy to hold
Cons
- Can easily cut you if not handled correctly
Best for Beginners: SZCO Supplies DH-8026HN Crescent Blade Ulu Knife
- Dimensions: This Alaskan ulu knife has an overall blade length of 5.5 inches and overall knife width is 4 inches with a 4.5-inch handle and 3mm thickness.
- Curved Blade: The long crescent-shaped blade on this ulu knife is made from very high-quality stainless steel that is treated for edge retention, and resistance to rust and corrosion to ensure long term durability and use.
This ulu knife features a 5.5″ blade and 4.5″ handle that offers great performance. The blade is crafted from premium quality stainless steel and is also tempered to increase durability.
To add to this, the crescent-shaped blade has a large surface area and allows for fast and efficient cutting.
The handle has an ambidextrous design, so you can hold it with either of your hands when using the knife.
More to this, the scales are held in place by multiple pins to ensure that the handle stays in one piece.
Furthermore, the spacers are made of high-quality brass, so they won’t rust over time. Like the blade, the handle is purposefully curved to give the user a comfortable grip that is equally secure.
Another feature that is worth mentioning is that the knife is exceptionally lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down when tackling tasks.
Besides, it allows users to cut large portions of food with just a few passes. The knife comes with a genuine leather sheath that you can use for safe carry.
Also, the sheath is fitted with a brass Snap-On button that will ensure the knife stays in the right position at all times.
On top of that, it has a conveniently placed belt loop that you can attach or detach in a matter of seconds.
Pros
- Non-slip handle
- Double bevel
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Likely to dull when used multiple times
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ulu knife?
In a nutshell, an ulu knife is a multipurpose cutting tool that was traditionally used by Aleut, Inuit, Yupik, and Iñupiat women.
However, the knives have become a go-to tool for chefs and home cooks due to their versatility and utilitarian design.
What are Ulu knives used for?
Ulu knives are versatile and can assist you in countless ways when in the kitchen. They are very efficient when it comes to cutting vegetables, meat, pizza, cheeses, herbs, etc.
Are ulu knives any good?
Yes. With the right ulu knife, you can tackle a wide range of tasks without using additional knives. Besides, ulu knives can chop, dice, and slice.
Who makes the best Ulu knife?
Different brands make ulu knives but you have to keep in mind that not all are reliable. Some of the brands that you can rely on include —; The Ulu Factory, Lamson, Bubba, Poshland, R Murphy, etc.
How do you sharpen an ulu knife?
Sharpening ulu knives can be a bit tricky since they have uniquely designed blades, so ensure that you have the type of sharpener.
When sharpening the knife, ensure that you glide the blade along the surface of the abrasive plates from tip to tip to your preferred level of sharpness.
Final Verdict
As you’ve seen, ulu knives can be used for different cutting applications, so they can be a great addition to your kitchen.
Moreover, the above-listed knives are easy to work with and are also affordable. That said, feel free to choose any of the ulu knives that we have reviewed.