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Here are excellent, widely-recommended chef’s knives under $300—each with a reputable source that tested or reviewed it: MAC Professional 8" Chef’s Knife (MTH-80) — repeatedly a top pick in hands-on tests for sharpness, precision, and overall performance. GearLab +2 GearLab +2 Tojiro DP Gyuto 210 mm (VG-10 core) — outstanding value Japanese gyuto; VG-10 steel, easy maintenance, great first step into Japanese knives. Burrfection Store +1 Wüsthof Classic 8" Chef’s Knife — a long-time favorite in mainstream tests; balanced, durable German style that performs across tasks. Serious Eats Zwilling Pro 8" Chef’s Knife — well-balanced German option often highlighted for heft, strength, and everyday versatility. Prudent Reviews Shun Classic 8" Chef’s Knife — high-performing Japanese blade with excellent factory edge; consistently praised in lab testing. GearLab Global G-2 8" Chef’s Knife — ultralight, agile classic; widely reviewed and frequently recommended for home cooks. Nothing But Knives +1 Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8" Chef’s Knife — best budget pick that still performs; repeatedly recommended in comparative roundups. People.com Quick buying tips (each point sourced) Blade style: German (curvier, heavier) vs. Japanese/gyuto (thinner, more precise). Choose by feel and cutting style. Food & Wine Why MAC/Tojiro often win: thin grinds and hard steels give superb out-of-box performance and edge retention at approachable prices. GearLab +1 If you want just one: the MAC MTH-80 is the most broadly endorsed “do-everything” pick under $300; if you want to spend less, go Tojiro DP (value) or Victorinox Fibrox Pro (budget).