Shun Knives

About Shun knives

That precise moment of perfection when something is at its peak.

Such is what the Japanese word "shun" means, like when fruits are perfectly ripe or fish are at their most flavorful.

Shun Cutlery, the company behind Shun Japanese knives, is a world-class knife brand owned by the KAI Group, a Japanese conglomerate operating in the United States as KAI USA.

KAI USA is also home to other respected knife brands:

• Kershaw Knives, known for its wide range of pocketknives—from folding knives to automatics to fixed blades

• Zero Tolerance Knives, celebrated for the precision and "proudly overbuilt" construction of its knife lines

With several top-notch knife brands under the KAI umbrella, you can trust that each Shun kitchen knife you pick up meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.

Where are Shun knives made?

Shun knives are handcrafted, hand-honed, and hand-finished in Seki City, Japan, a city famous for its centuries-old tradition of blademaking. Seki is known as the sword capital of Japan—the city has a rich history of crafting samurai swords.

Seki City artisans blend ancient techniques with modern technology to create knives with razor-sharp edges, exceptional balance, and stunning beauty.

What is special about Shun knives?

Shun knives stand out in the marketplace for several reasons, including:

• Blade steel: Shun knives typically use VG-MAX steel, a proprietary high-carbon stainless steel that's exceptionally sharp, edge-retentive, and stain-resistant. Other Shun knives feature steels like AUS8A and VG-10, which also yield sharp and durable knife blades.

• 16-degree cutting edge: Many Shun knives are sharpened to a 16-degree angle on each side, finer than the typical angle in Western knives. The result is an incredibly sharp edge.

• Lightweight design: Shun knives are lightweight and easy to handle—you don't get tired as easily during extended use. They're designed for control and precision, making them ideal for fine, detailed cutting tasks.

• Damascus blade patterns: Many Shun knives come with beautiful Damascus patterns, made by layering and forging together different types of steel. These patterns also enhance the blade's overall strength.

What types of knives does Shun make?

Shun Cutlery offers a wide range of kitchen knives, including chef's knives, steak knives, paring knives, utility knives, Santoku knives, and bread knives. These knives can be purchased individually or as part of a Shun knife set.

What should you not cut with a Shun knife?

Shun knives typically have a thinner blade for precision slicing and dicing. They feature Japanese steel, which is thinner, lighter, and sharper than the steel used in some German knives—but more brittle. They cannot withstand the same abuse most German knives are accustomed to.

Using your Shun knife to cut hard items like bones or frozen food can damage the blade.

Do chefs use Shun knives?

Yes, many professional chefs prefer Shun knives for their precision, sharpness, durability, and ergonomic design. Shun knives, however, aren't just a mainstay in professional kitchens—even avid home cooks love them.

Is Shun a real Japanese knife?

Yes, Shun is a Japanese brand, and all Shun knives are authentic Japanese knives. They're handcrafted by the master artisans of Seki City in Japan using a combination of traditional knifemaking techniques, modern technology, and exacting quality processes.

Who owns Shun knives?

KAI USA, headquartered in Tualatin, Oregon, owns Shun Cutlery, the maker of Shun knives. KAI USA is the American subsidiary of the KAI Group, a Japanese conglomerate, and is responsible for distributing Shun knives in the United States.

What angle are Shun knives?

Shun knives are sharpened to a precise 16-degree angle on both sides, making them sharper than most knives.

How do you sharpen Shun knives?

Shun knives will require sharpening from time to time to maintain their razor-sharp edges. You can use a whetstone, a Shun electric knife sharpener, or a professional sharpening service.

It's also recommended that you hone your knives between sharpening. A combination honing steel is usually included in Shun block sets.

What is the difference between Shun Classic and Shun Premier?

Shun Classic

• Timeless series featuring VG-MAX steel blades with Damascus cladding

• Ebony Pakkawood handles for durability and performance

Shun Premier

• Premium series with VG-MAX steel blades and a hand-hammered tsuchime finish

• Walnut Pakkawood handles for improved grip and cutting efficiency

Shun Classic Blonde

• Modern take on the Classic series, featuring the same VG-MAX steel and Damascus cladding

• Light-colored Pakkawood handles for a fresh, contemporary look

Which Shun knife is the best?

That largely depends on your needs. If you're looking for versatility, the Classic chef knife is a good option. Meanwhile, the hand-hammered finish of the Premier series reduces drag while adding a touch of elegance. If you need a complete set, the Classic knife set is a bestseller.

What is a Shun knife set?

A Shun knife set includes various kitchen knives, such as a Shun chef knife, a paring knife, a utility knife, and a Santoku knife. Knife sets like the Shun Classic 7-piece essential block set also include a pair of herb shears, a combination honing steel, and a multi-slot storage block.

What is Shun Cutlery?

Shun Cutlery is the company behind Shun knives. It's owned and operated by KAI USA, the American subsidiary of the Japanese conglomerate KAI Group.

Are Shun knives better than other Japanese brands?

Shun knives have built a loyal following, but whether they're better than other Japanese knife brands depends on what you value most in a knife.

Shun-Miyabi comparisons are common, as both brands offer high-quality kitchen knives. Ultimately, whether you choose Shun, Miyabi, or another Japanese brand, the best choice is the one that meets your specific needs and aligns with your personal preferences.

Where can I buy Shun knives?

Northwest Knives is a trusted distributor of premium knives from known brands like Shun, Miyabi, Wusthof, and Benchmade. Need sporting knives for your next adventure? We carry a wide range of options from brands like Buck Knives, Spyderco, and Chris Reeve Knives.

Got questions for our team? Fill out this contact form, and we'll get back to you within 24-48 hours. You may also email us at info@northwestknives.com or call 208-884-8626.