If you're the kind of person who counts down to the weekend just to fire up the grill, then you already know that having the right tools makes all the difference. Whether you're trimming brisket, slicing tri-tip, or tackling bone-in ribs, the right knife can take your BBQ from good to great. Here are six types of knives every BBQ fan should own—plus the ones we recommend from The Cooking Guild for each job.
1. The All-Purpose Chef's Knife
No BBQ toolkit is complete without a solid chef's knife. It's your go-to for everything from prepping rubs and slicing onions to trimming fat off pork shoulder.
The Kaiju 8" Chef's Knife is forged with Japanese San Mai steel and boasts superior edge retention and balance—ideal for both meal prep and meat work.
2. The Heavy-Duty Cleaver
When you're breaking down ribs, spatchcocking a chicken, or separating bone-in cuts, nothing beats a heavy-duty cleaver.
The Grizzly Series 8" Serbian Cleaver delivers brute force with precision. Full tang, rosewood handle, and a Hitachi SLD steel edge mean it's built for BBQ battle.
3. The Long Slicing Knife
Brisket lovers, this one’s for you. A long slicing knife lets you make clean, consistent cuts without shredding that beautifully smoked meat.
The Onyx II Damascus Steel 12" Slicer glides through brisket like butter, thanks to its 67-layer Damascus construction and ergonomic G10 handle.
4. The Flexible Fillet Knife
From cleaning fish to trimming silver skin, a flexible fillet knife gives you the finesse you need for delicate tasks.
The Grizzly Series 7" Fillet Knife is corrosion-resistant, flexible, and razor-sharp—a BBQ must-have for the finer details.
5. The Compact Petty Knife
Not every job needs a big blade. A good petty knife is perfect for slicing garlic, prepping herbs, or trimming small pieces of meat.
The Kaiju 6" Talon has a curved edge and control-enhancing grip hole, making it the ultimate tool for detail work at the grill.
6. The Precision Bunka Knife
Want to impress guests with razor-thin slices of sausage or perfect veggie skewers? A Bunka knife delivers power and precision in one blade.
The Kaiju 7" Bunka features a razor-sharp K-tip for precise slicing and is forged with the same San Mai method used in traditional Japanese sword-making.
Whether you're a pitmaster in training or a seasoned BBQ pro, investing in the right knives will elevate your grilling game and make prep more enjoyable.
Ready to upgrade your kit? Shop now and find the knife that suits your BBQ style.