Apart from cutting fish, a fillet knife can be used for slicing vegetables and deboning any kind of meat. There is an extensive choice of models online, available in a vast assortment of sizes, blade materials, handle materials, flexibility, colors, and prices. When shopping for such a kitchen tool, make sure you see a list of the top fillet knives in the online market.
We hope you find the following tips useful when making a choice.
Select a type
The initial consideration of buyers when looking for a fillet knife should be the type of instrument, either a manual or an electric one. The former provides maximal precious when cutting and removing bones from various kinds of fish. These knives enable users to take control of the cutting process, thus conserving most of the meat. Despite the precise cuts, manual models are more time-consuming and cause fatigue on the part of users.
In contrast, electric fillet knives are larger, heavier, and much faster than the manual ones. These models can be either battery-powered or corded, the latter of which are considered more robust. In spite of being more powerful, the corded variants are less convenient to use due to the risk of getting the cord tangled around the blade. Using an electric model requires a steady hand in order to prevent wasting most of the meat.
When going on a camping trip, taking a manual fillet knife is the wisest solution, as you won’t be near a power outlet. Conversely, the battery-powered models are mostly used by individuals who spend most of their days cutting meat in order to save time.
Consider the blade material
Another crucial factor to take into account when purchasing such a tool is the blade material. In order for a fillet knife to be long-lasting, it has to be made from high-quality material that withstands breaking and corrosion. Although most people look for ceramic blades, these aren’t strong enough to resist the pressure when cutting or deboning a large fish.
Therefore, buyers are advised to look for models with blades made from stainless, carbon, or high-carbon steel. The blades made from stainless steel are affordable, convenient to sharp, and long-lasting. Similarly, the ones made from carbon steel are known for being pricier in return for remaining sharp for longer periods. Ultimately, high-carbon steel blades are among the costliest variants on the market, distinctive for their superior strength and incredibly long lifespan. Make sure you visit this page for a useful guide on sharpening and storing knives.
Don’t forget the blade size
Apart from choosing the right blade material, one is also expected to pay close attention to the size of the blade. Fillet knives can be purchased in a wide assortment of sizes, all of which contribute differently to the cutting process. For instance, small-sized models, ranging from at least three to a maximum of four inches, are extremely flexible and ideal for people looking for precision. These are, however, only suitable for cutting small fish such as bluegills.
In addition, medium-sized blades, ranging from 4 to 7, 5 inches, are less flexible but more convenient for cutting larger fish like trout. Conversely, the largest-size models are suitable for skinning, deboning, and filleting even larger fish, such as salmon, catfish, or tuna. Normally, these variants offer the least flexibility.
Consider the handle material
One of the most important considerations when purchasing a fillet knife is selecting the right handle material. Handles are responsible for providing a good grip, comfort, and balance. The ideal model is supposed to feel comfortable in your hand, causing no fatigue or pain while using it.
For example, wooden handles are known to provide excellent comfort and durability. However, when wet, wood becomes slippery, thus increasing the risk of accidents. On the negative side, this material is also highly absorbent of smells and bacteria, making the cleaning process extremely difficult for users.
Moreover, laminate is a popular choice of handle material due to its durability and low maintenance. Being a combination of wood and plastic enables laminate to resemble in appearance to wood but acquire the excellent grip features of plastic. Visit the following link, https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Knife-Handles, to learn some creative tips about making knife handles.
Plastic is one of the most preferred materials when it comes to knife handles. The incredible lightweight makes models with plastic handles remarkably portable and convenient to use. As long as you don’t expose the handle to high temperatures, you’ll be using the tool for longer than you’ve expected.
Look for flexibility
Given the precision requirements of filleting, buyers are recommended to purchase a model with excellent flexibility. In order for a knife to be considered flexible, it has to provide users with the ability to use maneuvers while fileting.
Keep in mind that models with shorter blades are believed to be more flexible than the ones large in size. The ultimate decision will mainly depend on the purpose of using the tool, as all tasks require a different level of flexibility.
Check out the price
In terms of price, fillet knives are available in a variety of prices, ranging from as little as twenty dollars to as much as a few hundred bucks. The cost is affected by a myriad of factors, such as durability, blade, material, brand, etc.
Furthermore, the electric models are much pricier in comparison with the traditional ones. Therefore, be prepared to spend more when shopping for a battery-powered or corded variant. Also, the knives with carbon high-carbon steel blades are a bit costlier than the blades of lower quality.
Final thoughts
Fish lovers should be equipped with such a kitchen tool in order to prepare the best fillets.
Choose a flexible, durable, and comfortable model!