How to Choose the Right Bread Knife
By Grunwerg | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what to look for in a bread knife, from blade length and serration type to handle comfort. This guide helps you pick the best 20cm bread knife for your kitchen.
Quick answer
For most home cooks, a 20cm serrated bread knife with a comfortable handle and durable stainless steel blade offers the best balance of control and value. Look for a blade with deep, pointed serrations that can saw through hard crusts without crushing soft interiors.
Blade length: why 20cm works for most loaves
A 20cm blade is long enough to slice through a standard loaf of bread or a baguette in one or two strokes, yet short enough to maneuver easily in a crowded drawer. Shorter blades may require extra sawing, while longer blades can feel unwieldy for smaller items like bagels or rolls.
Serration style: pointed vs. scalloped edges
Most bread knives use pointed serrations (like saw teeth) that grip and cut through hard crusts efficiently. Some designs feature scalloped or wavy edges that reduce friction but may require more effort on very crusty bread. For tough baguettes or artisan loaves, a knife with deep, sharp serrations is usually more effective.
Handle and balance matter for comfort
A bread knife should feel secure and balanced in your hand. Look for an ergonomic handle with a non-slip material, especially if you slice frequently. Full tang construction (the blade extends through the handle) adds stability and durability. A half-bolster can improve control without adding too much weight.
Decision rules for choosing your bread knife
- If you bake artisan bread or buy crusty loaves: Choose a knife with deep, pointed serrations and a rigid blade. The Equilibrium 20cm Bread Knife or the RF 9100 Series are both strong options.
20cm Bread Knife - If you want a budget-friendly all-rounder: Look for a 20cm blade with a full tang and durable stainless steel. The Bread Knife 20cm 2400 Series offers solid construction at a lower price point.
Bread Knife 20cm 2400 Series - If you slice soft items like tomatoes or cakes regularly: A serrated knife with a thinner, flexible blade can help. The Ashwood 20cm Serrated Bread Knife is designed for foods with a hard exterior and soft interior.
- If you have limited storage space: Stick with a 20cm blade—it fits most knife blocks and drawers while still handling full loaves. Avoid longer blades unless you frequently cut extra-large breads.
Product facts
- RF 9100 Series Bread Knife 20cm: The RF 9100 Series Bread Knife 20cm features a forged X50CrMov15 stainless steel blade and an ergonomic handle that blends a rigid steel spine with black Micarta plastic. This combination offers excellent edge retention and a comfortable, secure grip for repeated slicing tasks.
- Equilibrium Collection 20cm Bread Knife: The Equilibrium 20cm Serrated Bread Knife has grooves perpendicular to the blade tip that allow cutting without exerting undue force, ideal for hard crusts and soft interiors. The groove design reduces the force needed, making it easier to slice through baguettes or tomatoes without crushing them.
Which bread knife fits you?
Best for
- Home bakers who need a reliable knife for crusty artisan loaves
- Everyday cooks who want a versatile 20cm serrated knife for bread, tomatoes, and cakes
Not for
- Professional chefs who require a longer blade (25cm+) for commercial slicing
- Users who prefer a non-serrated chef’s knife for all cutting tasks
