Selecting a Good Oyster Knife. A comparison of brands of oyster knives:
The first thing anyone wishing to shuck oysters should do is obtain the best oyster knife that they can afford. This purchase ensures not only that you have the right tool for the job, but also that the process of shucking is a little less dangerous.
Far too often, oyster harvesters purchase cheap oyster knives and find themselves with a nasty cut or nick when the flimsy knife breaks. As with anything, do your research before you buy a good-quality oyster knife. Your fingers may thank you. Here are this author's opinions on the following five oyster knives on the market:
The reason you need a real oyster knife is that it is designed for the specific task of prying oysters open. Other knives aren't up to the task. You'll need this important addition to your kitchen culinary supplies.Some oyster knives vary in blade shape. Usually, the blade is somewhat triangular-shaped, short, and blunt.
1. Gourmac 323771 Oyster Knives, 3 assorted Oyster Shell Handles, currently retailing for around $15.00
While moderately priced as a set of three, these oyster knives were not meant for serious oyster shucking because the handles are not comfortable. The knife blade is also too flimsy.
2. OXO Good Grips Oyster Knife
, a set of two, currently retails for around $20.00.
, a set of two, currently retails for around $20.00.
This stainless steel and black non-slip plastic oyster knife is of a good size
for shucking at 7 inches. Supposedly, the handle absorbs pressure while you shuck, but I found no discernible difference in it and other oyster knives. It is dishwasher safe. However, my experience is that this inexpensive oyster knife will break when you least expect it.
3. I had better luck with a Chroma USA Oyster/Paring Knife, which, while a little pricey, was a very comfortable short, thick-bladed oyster knife. This professional Japanese steel-bladed knife retails between $40-$50. This is a very well-made knife.
. It is truly a high-quality stainless steel-bladed knife of a very comfortable size, retailing between $45-$65.00. Sorry, I don't have a picture of it, as it was borrowed from another oyster-shucking aficionado.
Overall, I would recommend, in the following order:
,- Chroma USA Oyster/Paring knife,
- Victorinox Oyster knife
.The selection of a good oyster shucking knife boils down to personal preference and common sense. Oyster shucking can be slightly dangerous, so keep in mind that a good forged knife is always better than a stamped knife. A good quality knife, while more expensive, is simply a better knife.
article written by Jerilee Beitzel, used with permission.
