Shun Classic Blonde 8" Chef's Knife

The knife that introduced Japanese cutlery to America.

Shun's Classic series was the first Japanese line sold in the US, and this is its signature piece. A VG-MAX core wrapped in 68 layers of Damascus cladding, ground to 16 degrees — noticeably finer than the 20 degrees a Western knife ships with, and you feel the difference on the first onion.

Why this one

• VG-MAX core is harder than standard cutlery steel, so the edge lasts through a great deal more prep before it needs attention.
• The 68 Damascus layers aren't decoration. The cladding supports a hard, brittle core and stops food clinging to the blade face.
• A 16-degree edge slices rather than pushes, which matters most on tomatoes and delicate fish.
• D-shaped Pakkawood handle works for left and right-handed cooks.
• Free sharpening and honing for life, direct from Shun.

The details

• 8 inch chef's knife, 16-degree edge
• VG-MAX core, 68-layer Damascus cladding
• D-shaped Pakkawood handle, blonde
• Handcrafted in Japan

Looking after it

Hand wash and dry straight away. Never the dishwasher, never glass or stone boards. Hone it regularly and use Shun's free sharpening service rather than a pull-through sharpener.