MAC Chef's Series Dimpled Chef Knife 210mm

MAC Knife has been making knives in Seki City, Japan since 1964, and the Professional series is the line that built the brands reputation in Western kitchens. The MTH-80 is one of the most recommended chef knives at CKTG — not because it is the flashiest option in the catalog, but because it performs at a level that surprises cooks who are accustomed to heavier German-style knives. It is a knife that gets out of the way and lets you work.

The blade is roll forged from MACs proprietary chrome-moly vanadium steel, an alloy engineered specifically to produce thin, tough blades that take and hold a keen edge — characteristics that are difficult to achieve simultaneously in most conventional stainless steels. At 2mm at the heel the blade geometry is notably lean, which translates directly into less resistance through most cutting tasks. The dimpled granton edge runs along the flat of the blade and helps food release cleanly rather than sticking and dragging during prep. The western-style handle is comfortable and well proportioned, and the knife balances naturally at the pinch grip. MAC warrants the MTH-80 for 25 years against defects in materials and workmanship — a confidence in the product that is worth noting at this price point.

What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers who come to this knife from German brands consistently describe the difference in feel as immediate and significant — lighter, more agile, and noticeably sharper out of the box. Several owners mention keeping it as their most-reached-for knife despite owning more expensive options, citing the thin geometry and reliable edge retention as the reasons it stays in rotation. The knife has been purchased as a gift multiple times by customers who already own one themselves, which says something. A few reviewers note that the handle runs on the smaller side, which suits smaller hands well but may feel compact to those used to heavier bolstered handles. CKTG sharpening service is mentioned positively by name in multiple reviews.

Care Instructions: Hand wash and dry after each use — the dishwasher is not suitable for any quality knife and will degrade the edge and handle over time. The steel responds well to water stones and ceramic honing rods; regular light maintenance on a honing rod between sharpenings will extend the life of the edge considerably. Avoid hard bones, frozen foods, and hard cutting surfaces.

• Maker: MAC Knife, Inc.
• Location: Seki City, Japan
• Founded: 1964
• Construction: Mono Steel, Roll Forged
• Steel: Proprietary Chrome-Moly Vanadium
• Edge Grind: Double Bevel, Granton (Dimpled)
• Blade Length: 203mm
• Total Length: 319mm
• Spine Thickness at Heel: 2mm
• Blade Height: 49mm
• Weight: 6.8 oz (192g)
• Warranty: 25 years against defects