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Best 7 Inch Chef Knife (2024 Update)

If you're looking for a versatile and efficient chef knife, a 7 inch blade can be a great choice. With the right size, it can handle slicing, chopping, dicing, and mincing with ease, making it an indispensable tool in any kitchen. However, not all chef knives are created equal, and there are some important factors to consider before making a purchase.

Firstly, you'll want to think about the blade material. High-quality options include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and ceramic. Each has its own pros and cons in terms of sharpness, durability, and maintenance, so do your research to find the best fit for your needs. You should also consider the handle material, as it can affect the knife's grip, comfort, and balance. Common options include wood, plastic, and composite materials.

Another important factor is the blade's thickness and shape. A thinner blade may be better for intricate tasks, while a thicker blade can handle more heavy-duty chopping and slicing. As for shape, a classic curved blade can be more versatile, while a straighter blade can be more precise. Of course, it all depends on your personal preferences and cooking style.

If you're still unsure about which 7 inch chef knife to choose, ask yourself some questions. What are your most common tasks in the kitchen? What type of grip and weight do you prefer? Are you willing to invest in a higher-end knife for better quality and longevity? With these considerations in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the best 7 inch chef knife for your needs.

10 Best 7 Inch Chef Knife

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is a high-quality chef knife, ideal for professional use in the kitchen due to its Japanese steel and unique handle.
2
This product is ideal for professional cooking with its sharp and durable German stainless steel chef knife, sharpener, and protective cover.
3
The product is ideal for professional chefs and home cooks who want a high-quality, sharp, and durable kitchen knife.
4
The product is ideal for professional and home cooks who need a high-quality and sharp kitchen knife for preparing ingredients.
5
This product is ideal for cutting and preparing various types of ingredients in a professional kitchen setting.
6
The product is ideal for a sharp and durable chef knife with a black titanium nitride coating and vacuum-treated steel.
7
The product is ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping a variety of foods with precision and ease.
8
This product is ideal for professional and home use in cutting and chopping tasks with its sharp VG-10 steel blade.
9
Ideal for precise and efficient slicing, dicing, and chopping of fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish in the kitchen.
10
Ideal for smoothly and easily slicing vegetables with precision, thanks to its ground hollow chef's blade made of stainless steel.
This product is a high-quality chef knife, ideal for professional use in the kitchen due to its Japanese steel and unique handle.
This product is ideal for professional cooking with its sharp and durable German stainless steel chef knife, sharpener, and protective cover.
The product is ideal for professional chefs and home cooks who want a high-quality, sharp, and durable kitchen knife.
The product is ideal for professional and home cooks who need a high-quality and sharp kitchen knife for preparing ingredients.
This product is ideal for cutting and preparing various types of ingredients in a professional kitchen setting.
The product is ideal for a sharp and durable chef knife with a black titanium nitride coating and vacuum-treated steel.
The product is ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping a variety of foods with precision and ease.
This product is ideal for professional and home use in cutting and chopping tasks with its sharp VG-10 steel blade.
Ideal for precise and efficient slicing, dicing, and chopping of fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish in the kitchen.
Ideal for smoothly and easily slicing vegetables with precision, thanks to its ground hollow chef's blade made of stainless steel.

1. Unique Damascus Santoku Knife For Pro Chefs

Introducing the Unique Chef's Santoku Damascus Knife – an exceptional addition to any kitchen, whether for professional or home use. This knife is designed to impress, with its one-of-a-kind handle and beautiful Damascus stainless steel curling pattern blade. Each knife is uniquely crafted, making it as cool and unique as the person using it.

The knife's design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional. Elegantly designed by a chef, the Damascus knife is perfectly balanced with a double beveled edge. It is a razor-sharp knife that delivers exceptional professional performance, making it ideal for filleting, meat carving, chopping, and slicing through raw meats, steaks, fish, vegetables, and fruits. The blade's design maximizes knuckle clearance, allowing for a closer grip of the handle to the blade guard fingers, encouraging a rocking motion cutting style that protects your hands and makes it easy to use for extended periods.

Crafted from high-quality materials, this knife is of the highest quality. The Japanese Knife features a high carbon content VG 10 cutting core, 67 layers of Damascus steel with 60-62 hardness, and deep vacuum cooling to make it corrosion resistant. The knives come with a mirror hand-sharpened edge V Taper Grinding, with each side ground at a 9-11 degree angle, delivering exceptional sharpness.

Please note that each handle is different, and the colors of the knife may vary from the pictures. This is because the handle is made from G10 stabilized natural wood, which is processed with environmentally friendly glue and compressed into the woodblock with natural dye colors. However, you can rest assured that the knife you receive will be a unique and pleasant surprise.

This knife also comes with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. It is a perfect gift for any occasion, whether for Mother's day, Father's day, birthdays, or as a gift for a culinary art student, professional chef, or home cook. However, please note that this knife is not suitable for cutting frozen foods or using as a butcher's knife or cleaver. Always use a sharpening stone or diamond steel knife sharpener and chopping boards to maintain the knife's sharpness and longevity.

2. Pro Santoku Set: Sharp & Durable Knives

Introducing the Premium Santoku Knife Set by Master Maison, a set of high-quality knives that are designed to meet the needs of professional chefs and home cooks alike. The set includes a 7-inch santoku knife made from high-carbon German stainless steel, an edge guard cover to protect the blade, a dual sharpener to keep the blade sharp, and a sleek gift box for easy storage.

Master Maison was founded by two lifelong cooks who were frustrated by the lack of affordable, professional-quality knives on the market. To address this issue, they partnered with dozens of professional chefs to design a range of knives that are both stain-resistant and rust-resistant, without compromising on quality. The result is a knife set that is both affordable and professional-grade.

The 7-inch santoku knife in this set is forged from a single piece of high-carbon German stainless steel, resulting in a blade that is razor-sharp and perfectly balanced. The superior ergonomics of the knife, combined with its precision cutting capabilities, make it an ideal choice for a wide range of kitchen tasks.

The sleek design of the Master Maison santoku knife set is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also practical. The included storage box and edge guard cover ensure that the knives remain protected and organized, reducing clutter on the counter and extending the life of the blades.

Caring for your Master Maison knives is easy, and the set comes with an unlimited 1-year warranty for your peace of mind. The manufacturer recommends hand washing and promptly drying the knives after use to protect their sharpness and glossiness.

3. Black Hawk 7-Inch Chef Knife: Ultimate Kitchen Essential.

The 7-inch chef's knife is a well-balanced cutting tool that offers a better cutting angle due to its 14-16 degree sides. The overall curve design of the knife allows for lever cutting, promoting good up and down swing and forward and backward movement, making it suitable for both left and right-handed users.

Forged from super steel, this knife features special-forged German stainless steel that has undergone precise vacuum heat-treatment and nitrogen cryogenic tempering. This process provides high corrosion resistance and edge retention, allowing the knife to retain the flavor of the ingredients and enhancing the overall taste of your food.

The knife's ultra-sharp edge is manually polished many times to achieve a high degree of hardness of 56+HRC and sharpness. The straight edge provides stunning cutting ability, allowing you to cut meat and vegetables into pieces or slices with ease. It can also be used for cutting bread and fruit.

The knife's design focuses on ergonomics, ensuring an ideal balance between the handle and the blade, making it easy to maneuver. The G10 handle has better anti-skid properties, ensuring safety while providing a comfortable grip that can effectively relieve wrist fatigue.

The Black Hawk-S series features an etching pattern that gives the knife a beautiful and noble temperament, making it an ideal gift choice. The exquisite box adds to its gift appeal, making it suitable for any occasion, be it Valentine's Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's Day. It is a perfect gift for family and friends who love to cook.

4. Black Hawk Series Chef Knife – Razor Sharp & Stylish.

The Black Hawk 7 inch Chef Knife is a professional-grade kitchen tool that is designed to meet various cutting needs. Its smaller size compared to a regular chef's knife makes it more flexible and convenient to use, allowing you to handle food that would be otherwise difficult to manage.

This cooking knife is made of special-forged German stainless steel that has undergone precise vacuum heat-treatment, ensuring excellent hardness, flexibility, sharpness, and long-lasting performance. With this knife, you can expect ruthless efficiency with no tearing or squishing of your food.

The ergonomic design of the Black Hawk 7 inch Chef Knife is built for comfort and functionality. The handle is made of Pakkawood, a durable material that is known for its insulation, anti-corrosion, and wear-resistance. This material makes it easy to grip the handle with large or small hands, minimizing wrist tension. Prepping food and cooking will no longer feel like a chore with this knife's comfortable handle.

The Black Hawk 7 inch Chef Knife is a masterpiece of the Black Hawk series. The blade has been hand-polished multiple times, creating a shiny silver finish that is visually stunning. The high-grade black handle creates a strong contrast with the silver blade, making the knife look very advanced and luxurious. The silver rivet on the handle also matches the silver blade, adding to its overall elegance.

This knife comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. It also comes with a beautiful case, making it an excellent gift for any home cook or professional chef. Try it risk-free and see how it can surprise you with its outstanding performance.

5. Global G-4, Classic 7 Inch Knife, Stainless Steel Oriental Chef's, 7", Stainles Steel

Introducing the precision-engineered 7-inch Oriental chef's knife, a lightweight and expertly balanced cutting tool that is sure to impress any kitchen enthusiast. The blade of this knife is crafted from high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear.

One of the standout features of this knife is its ability to retain razor sharpness exceptionally well, providing an effortless and efficient cutting experience every time. The stainless-steel handle is molded for comfort, with a dimpled design that ensures a safe and secure grip, even when working with wet or greasy hands.

Designed with the discerning chef in mind, this Oriental chef's knife is perfect for slicing and dicing a wide range of ingredients, from meats and poultry to vegetables and fruits. Its precise balance and lightweight design make it easy to handle, while the razor-sharp edge makes quick work of even the toughest cutting tasks.

With a lifetime warranty against defects and breakage, you can rest assured that this knife will be a reliable and long-lasting addition to your kitchen arsenal. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, this exceptional cutting tool is a must-have for anyone who takes their culinary creations seriously. Don't settle for anything less than the best – add the precision-engineered Oriental chef's knife to your collection today!

6. Shadow Black Barong Chef Knife – Razor Sharp

The Dalstrong Shadow Black Series is a collection of exceptional knives that offer both style and functionality. These knives are designed to be as sleek, aggressive and muscular as they are effective. They are a statement about the chef's style and expertise.

Each knife in the series has a scalpel-like edge, which is hand finished to 15° per side using the Honbazuke method. The blades are nitrogen cooled to enhance their hardness and flexibility. They are also coated with titanium nitride to make them robust, corrosion-resistant and improve their non-stick properties.

The handle of the Shadow Black Series knives is ergonomic, made of fiber-resin and military-grade G10 material. It is nearly impervious to heat, cold, and moisture. The handle geometry is designed to fit snugly in the palm, providing a firm grip. The full tang blade is offset for knuckle clearance.

These knives are made of high-carbon 7CR17MOV-X super-steel with an added vacuum heat treatment at 58+ HRC for extraordinary performance and edge retention. Each knife comes with a matching black space-saving sheath. The knives are National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certified, ensuring their quality and safety.

Dalstrong offers a rocksolid 100% satisfaction or money-back guarantee, making it a risk-free purchase. The knives also come with a lifetime warranty against defects, which is a testament to the brand's confidence in its product. The renowned Dalstrong customer service is always there to help if needed.

Over 250,000 chefs worldwide trust and love the Dalstrong brand and its exceptional knives. The Shadow Black Series is a reflection of the brand's commitment to quality, style, and innovation. If you're looking for a knife that offers both style and functionality, the Dalstrong Shadow Black Series is a great choice.

7. Shun Classic 7 Inch Santoku Knife, Handcrafted In Japan, Dm0702

Introducing a versatile and efficient kitchen tool, the 7-inch blade multipurpose Japanese knife. This knife is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook and wants to achieve professional results. It is designed to handle various tasks such as chopping, mincing, dicing, and slicing with ease.

The blade of this knife is precision-forged from high-carbon stainless steel, which ensures that it maintains its sharpness and durability for a long time. This feature makes it perfect for daily use in a busy kitchen. The blade is also clad with 16 layers of stainless steel, which gives it a rust-free Damascus look. This not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also protects it from corrosion and damage.

The handle of this knife is made from durable D-shaped Pakkawood, which is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip. The offset steel bolster adds to the knife's balance and control, making it easier to use for extended periods. Additionally, the handle is designed to fit comfortably in any hand size, reducing fatigue during use.

This Japanese knife is proudly made in Seki City, Japan, a city renowned for its traditional knife-making craftsmanship. The knife's design and construction are a testament to the city's dedication to producing high-quality knives that meet the demands of professional chefs and home cooks alike.

8. Damascus Santoku: Precision Cutlery For Pros.

The Ultra Sharp Santoku Knife is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook in the kitchen. This kitchen knife is crafted with super steel VG10 cutting core and hammered by vacuum heat treatment. This ensures long-lasting sharpness and durability at the same time. The Sunnecko Damascus kitchen knife offers a Rockwell hardness of 60±2 HRC, meaning that the razor-sharp santoku chef knife blade has a higher level of edge retention and rust resistance.

The High End Damascus Knives are folded and forged with 67-layer Damascus high-carbon stainless steel. The unique dense fine metal grains are formed on the Santoku knife blade surface, which enhances sharpness and keeps food from sticking on your cooking knives. The edge of the Damascus steel knife is hand-sharpened to 12-15°on each side, enabling you to cut and slice more precisely.

The Perfect Balanced Performance of the Damascus knife is made in full-tang design, which is more sturdy than a normal cooking knife. It is also easy to clean and dry. This Santoku knife 7 inch can be used by both hands, and the ratio between blade and handle is close to 1:1. The high-end Japanese kitchen knife allows you to cut faster and more efficiently with a better cutting angle while not causing fatigue on your arm and shoulder.

The Professional Japanese Cooking Knife Features make the Vg10 Japanese Santoku kitchen knife suitable for both home and professional use. Damascus knives help you to work effortlessly and bring you more joy in the kitchen! This Japanese kitchen knife can work as a meat knife, utility knife, and professional chef knife, easily handling 90% of your daily kitchen tasks.

Customer Support and Product Warranty are essential when purchasing kitchen knives. Sunnecko is an experienced producer of kitchen knives, specializing in the design of high-quality steel knives. They offer a 30-day refund, replacement, and a 1-year warranty for every knife sold to you. Each vg10 Japanese knife comes with exquisite gift box packaging, making it an ideal choice for Father's Day, Mother's Day, and Birthday gifts.

9. German Mastered Santoku Knife With Razor Edge

Introducing the ultimate kitchen companion, the HENCKELS Knife. This superior-quality knife is designed to elevate your culinary skills with its ultra-sharp blades that ensure precision cutting. It boasts professional-level sharpness that stays sharp longer, thanks to its satin-finished blade that is finely honed for long-lasting sharpness.

Effortless meal prep is now a reality with the HENCKELS Knife. Its lightweight and easy-to-use design makes it perfect for detailed kitchen tasks. It excels at three cutting techniques, allowing you to expertly mince garlic, slice cucumber, dice onions, and more.

Say goodbye to the hassle of cleaning up after meal prep. The HENCKELS Knife offers no-fuss cleanup and is dishwasher safe. Its blades are stain and rust-free, ensuring long-lasting durability.

This knife is worth the splurge. HENCKELS knives start out razor-sharp and stay sharper longer, even with minimal care. Its fully forged construction offers durability and a seamless transition from blade to handle.

The HENCKELS Knife is the last knife you'll ever need to buy. It is a German-engineered knife informed by over 100 years of mastery, ensuring its quality and longevity. Investing in this knife is a decision you won't regret.

10. Global G-56, Classic 7 Inch Knife, Stainless Steel Vegetable Ground Hollow Chef's, 7"

The 7-inch Hollow Ground Vegetable Knife by Global is the perfect kitchen tool for all your vegetable cutting needs. This knife is expertly crafted from high-tech molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel, ensuring that it will remain sharp and durable over time. Additionally, the ice-tempered cutting edge of this knife will retain its razor sharpness even after extended periods of use.

One of the standout features of this knife is its tapered handle, which is not only molded for lightweight comfort but also dimpled for a safe and secure grip. This design allows you to cut and chop with ease, without worrying about the knife slipping out of your hand.

The 7-inch Hollow Ground Vegetable Knife by Global comes with a lifetime warranty against defects and breakage, giving you added peace of mind when making your purchase. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, this knife is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Best 7 Inch Chef Knife FAQs

Are there any specific brands that offer the best 7 inch chef knives?

There are several brands that offer high-quality 7 inch chef knives. One of the most popular brands is Wusthof, which is known for its precision and durability. Their 7 inch chef knife is made from high-carbon stainless steel and has a full tang for maximum balance and control. Another great brand is Shun, which is famous for its Japanese-style knives and uses VG-MAX steel for their 7 inch chef knife. The knife has a unique shape and design that allows for easy chopping and slicing.

Another brand worth considering is Global, which produces lightweight and well-balanced knives. Their 7 inch chef knife is made from a single piece of stainless steel and has a unique handle design for a comfortable grip. Finally, the Zwilling J.A. Henckels brand also offers a high-quality 7 inch chef knife made from high-quality stainless steel and has a comfortable handle design.

Ultimately, the best 7 inch chef knife for you will depend on your personal preference and needs. It is important to consider factors such as balance, weight, and durability when choosing a knife.

Are there any specific handle materials that are best for a 7 inch chef knife?

When it comes to choosing the handle material for a 7 inch chef knife, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, the handle material should provide a comfortable and secure grip. Materials such as rubber, polymer, or textured plastic can offer a non-slip grip and are often used in commercial kitchens. Wood handles, on the other hand, can provide a more traditional and aesthetically pleasing look, but may require more maintenance to keep them in good condition. Additionally, the handle material should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of daily use in the kitchen. Some popular materials that meet these criteria include G-10, Micarta, and stainless steel. Ultimately, the choice of handle material will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. It's always a good idea to try out different materials before making a final decision.

Can a 7 inch chef knife be used for other kitchen tasks besides chopping and slicing?

Absolutely! While a 7 inch chef knife is primarily designed for chopping and slicing, it can be used for a variety of other kitchen tasks as well. Its long, sharp blade makes it ideal for tasks such as mincing herbs, crushing garlic, and even filleting fish. The flat portion of the blade can be used for tasks such as scraping and spreading, while the pointed tip can be used for precise cuts or removing seeds from fruits and vegetables. Additionally, a chef knife can also be used for tasks such as trimming meat or vegetables, peeling fruits and vegetables, and even cracking open nuts. So while a 7 inch chef knife may be primarily designed for chopping and slicing, it is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of kitchen tasks.

How do you properly maintain a 7 inch chef knife to ensure its longevity?

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of a 7-inch chef knife. Here are some tips that you can follow to maintain your chef knife:

1. Clean the knife after each use: Use warm soapy water to clean the knife and avoid using harsh detergents and abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the blade. Dry the knife with a clean towel and store it properly.

2. Sharpen the knife regularly: A dull knife is not only frustrating to use, but it can also be dangerous. Use a sharpening stone or honing steel to keep the blade sharp.

3. Store the knife properly: Store the knife in a knife block or on a magnetic strip to protect the blade from damage and prevent accidents.

4. Avoid cutting hard materials: Avoid using the knife to cut hard materials like bones, frozen food, or hard cheese. This can cause the blade to chip or become dull.

5. Use a cutting board: Always use a cutting board, preferably made of wood or plastic, to protect the blade from damage.

By following these tips, you can maintain your 7-inch chef knife in good condition and ensure its longevity.

How does the weight and balance of a 7 inch chef knife affect its performance?

The weight and balance of a chef knife can greatly affect its performance, including a 7 inch chef knife. The weight of the knife can impact how comfortable it is to use, as a heavier knife may cause fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the weight can impact the knife's ability to efficiently slice through food. A heavier knife may require more force to cut through denser foods, while a lighter knife may not have enough weight to effectively cut through tougher ingredients.

The balance of the knife can also impact its performance. A well-balanced knife will feel comfortable in the hand and allow for better control during use. The balance point should be just ahead of the handle, which helps to distribute the weight evenly, making it easier to maneuver and control.

Overall, the weight and balance of a 7 inch chef knife can impact its performance, but the optimal weight and balance will vary depending on the individual user's preferences and needs. It is important to choose a knife that feels comfortable and balanced in your hand to ensure optimal performance.

What are the top rated 7 inch chef knives on the market?

There are several top-rated 7-inch chef knives available on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. One popular option is the Wusthof Classic 7-Inch Santoku Knife, which is known for its precision cutting and durable construction. Another highly rated choice is the Shun Classic 7-Inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife, which features a comfortable handle and sharp blade for effortless slicing.

For those on a budget, the Victorinox Fibrox Pro 7-Inch Santoku Knife is a great option, offering a comfortable grip and sharp blade at an affordable price point. Other top-rated 7-inch chef knives include the Global G-48 7-Inch Santoku Knife, the MAC Professional Series 7-Inch Santoku Knife, and the Miyabi Kaizen 7-Inch Santoku Knife.

Ultimately, the best 7-inch chef knife for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as blade material, handle comfort, and overall quality when making a purchase.

What is the difference between a 7 inch chef knife and other sizes?

The difference between a 7 inch chef knife and other sizes lies in their blade length and weight. A 7 inch chef knife is considered a mid-sized knife and is ideal for everyday use in the kitchen. It is shorter and lighter than a larger chef's knife, which makes it more maneuverable and easier to control. This size is perfect for tasks such as chopping, mincing, slicing, and dicing.

On the other hand, a larger chef's knife, such as a 10 or 12 inch, is better suited for heavy-duty tasks such as cutting through thick meats or large vegetables. However, a larger knife may not be as comfortable to use for extended periods, and its weight may make it more difficult to control.

Ultimately, the size of a chef's knife comes down to personal preference and the tasks you plan on using it for. It's essential to choose a knife that feels comfortable in your hand and is well-balanced for your specific needs.

What is the price range for a high-quality 7 inch chef knife?

The price range for a high-quality 7 inch chef knife can vary depending on the brand, material, and craftsmanship. Generally, a good quality 7 inch chef knife can range from $50 to $200. There are some high-end brands that offer knives at a higher price point, but it is not always necessary to spend a lot of money to get a quality knife. It is important to consider factors such as the blade material, handle material, sharpness, and durability when selecting a chef knife. It is also a good idea to read reviews and do research before making a purchase to ensure that the knife meets your needs and expectations. Ultimately, investing in a high-quality chef knife can make a big difference in the ease and precision of your cooking.

What makes a 7 inch chef knife the best for chopping and slicing?

A 7 inch chef knife is considered the best for chopping and slicing because of its size and weight balance. The blade is long enough to handle larger items such as meats or vegetables, but not so long that it becomes unwieldy. The weight is also balanced, allowing for more control and precision when cutting. Additionally, the blade is typically made from high-quality steel, which allows for a sharp edge and long-lasting durability. The size and shape of the blade also make it versatile enough to handle a variety of cutting tasks, from chopping herbs to slicing through tough cuts of meat. Overall, a 7 inch chef knife is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile kitchen tool that can handle a variety of cutting tasks with ease.

What type of steel is best for a 7 inch chef knife?

For a 7 inch chef knife, the best type of steel would depend on your personal preferences and intended use for the knife. However, there are some general considerations to keep in mind when choosing a steel.

Firstly, you'll want a steel with good edge retention, so that you don't have to sharpen your knife too frequently. High-carbon stainless steel is a good option, as it provides a good balance of edge retention and resistance to corrosion.

Secondly, you'll want a steel that is easy to sharpen. Some steels, such as carbon steel, can be very sharp but require more maintenance and skill to sharpen properly. Stainless steel can be a bit more forgiving in this regard.

Finally, you may want to consider the overall hardness of the steel. Harder steels can hold a sharper edge for longer, but may be more brittle and prone to chipping. Softer steels may be more durable, but won't hold an edge quite as well.

Some popular steels for chef knives include VG-10 stainless steel, 440C stainless steel, and AUS-10 steel. Ultimately, the best steel for your 7 inch chef knife will depend on your personal preferences and intended use.