Limited Edition Collector Blades
Is It Bad Luck to Give a Knife as a Gift?
Is it bad luck to give a knife as a gift? In some cultures, there's a superstition that a gifted knife can "cut" the relationship between giver and receiver. The common workaround is simple: tape a coin to the gift, and the recipient hands the coin back, so the knife is technically bought, not given. Superstition aside, a quality knife is one of the most useful gifts a cook can get. Our favorite is the Dalstrong Shogun Chef Knife and Paring Knife Set ($229), a matched pair in Japanese AUS-10V core, 62+ HRC, 8–12° edge, 66-layer Damascus or hammered finish, so it covers the two knives they'll use most.
Where the superstition comes from
Versions of the belief turn up in many places, and the details vary. The core idea is symbolic: a blade cuts, so a blade given as a gift might sever a friendship or a romance. It's especially associated with wedding gifts, where a "cut" would be an unlucky start. There's no single origin, and different families follow it with very different levels of seriousness.
The coin tradition
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 | Attach a coin to the knife or its box. |
| 2 | The recipient gives the coin back to the giver. |
| 3 | The knife is now a "purchase," and the bad luck is avoided. |
Any coin works. Many people use a penny, or a special or foreign coin to make it a keepsake.
How to give a knife thoughtfully
- Know the recipient. If they or their family take the superstition seriously, include the coin and a note explaining it.
- Pick the right knife. A chef's knife suits most cooks; a specialty blade suits someone who already has the basics.
- Include care instructions. Hand-wash, dry, hone and store safely.
- Consider a gift card if you're unsure; they choose, and nobody worries about luck.
Knife gift ideas at every budget
| Budget | Gift |
|---|---|
| Under $50 | Gladiator 3.5" Paring Knife ($35) |
| Under $100 | Gladiator 8" Chef Knife ($79) |
| Under $150 | Shogun 8" Chef Knife ($129) |
| Splurge | Shogun Chef and Paring Set ($229) |
Knives as wedding gifts
Despite the superstition, knife sets are among the most popular registry items, because couples use them every day. Including a coin with a sweet note ("for good luck") turns a potential awkward moment into a nice gesture. See the best knife sets for a wedding registry.
A note on safety when gifting
Always gift knives in their sheath or box, and never wrap a bare blade. If you're shipping, use the original packaging.
More gift guides: knife gifts under $50 and knife gifts under $100.
Our top picks
2 Piece Set, Chef Knife & Paring Knife, Shogun Series ($229). Spec sheet: Japanese AUS-10V core, 62+ HRC, 8–12° edge, 66-layer Damascus or hammered finish. A chef and paring knife pair.
Chef's Knife 8", Gladiator Series, ELITE, NSF Certified ($79). Spec sheet: German X50CrMoV15 steel, 54–56 HRC, 16–18° edge, NSF certified. A dependable 8" chef knife.
FAQ
Is it bad luck to give a knife as a gift?
Some people believe a gifted knife can cut a relationship. The common fix is including a coin the recipient gives back.
What do you do if someone gives you a knife?
By tradition, give them a coin in return so it counts as a purchase.
What's a good knife to give as a gift?
The Dalstrong Shogun Chef Knife and Paring Knife Set ($229) covers the two knives most cooks use daily.
Can you give knives as a wedding gift?
Yes. Knife sets are popular registry items; many people include a coin for luck.
What coin should I use?
Any coin works; a penny is traditional.
