What type of knife is best for slicing bread?

The best type of knife for slicing bread is a serrated knife. Serrated knives are specifically designed with a saw-like edge that allows them to grip and cut through the crust of the bread without crushing the soft interior. This design is ideal for slicing through various types of bread, including those with hard crusts or delicate textures, as it prevents tearing and produces clean, even slices.

In contrast, a chef's knife, while versatile for many other culinary tasks, does not have the serrated edge necessary for cleanly cutting through crusty bread without compressing it. Similarly, a paring knife, which is small and ideal for intricate cuts or peeling fruits and vegetables, lacks the length and serration needed for effective bread slicing. A boning knife, designed for trimming meat from bones, is not suitable for bread at all due to its specific shape and purpose. Therefore, the serrated knife stands out as the most effective tool for this task.