Shun blades have rapidly turned into one of the top names in high-quality kitchen blades during the last five years. During this spectacular rise numerous cooks have switched from such well-known household brands as Wusthof and Henckels for Shun.

Shun's importance in the industry is not surprising. Global first introduced Western chefs to high-end cutlery from Japan, however Shun went one step higher and introduced them to the general public. Against most expert opinions, Shun showed that the West needed sharp, lightweight, premium cutlery. Even though Shun knives are more expensive and require more routine work than their competition, enthusiast chefs noticed the distinction and became loyal customers.

Kershaw and Shun

Shun knives are made by Kai Cutlery, a big and very respected Japanese knife firm. Kai bought Kershaw Cutlery in 1978 and formed Kai USA to manufacture and distribute American-made knives. As it became evident that there was a market for high-end kitchen knives using age-old Japanese knife-making methodologies, Kai was uniquely positioned to lead the charge.

The Shun Knife was originally produced in 2003. Stores such as Williams-Sonoma and Sur La Table have since then chosen it as one of their premier knife brands.

Shun Classic Knives

Aimed squarely at the aficionado home cook, Shun Classic Knives are the most popular of the Shun lines.

They are made with VG-10 steel from Japan, which, when matched against with European steel, is harder and sharper. Most chefs think that the steel's sharpness and low weight, when mixed with the traditional handle from the West, creates an outstanding end result.

These blades should not be put in the dishwasher, or to be left sitting in water. The slim, sharp blades can with no difficulty be dulled or marred by this method.

The handle is created from pakka wood, which is a hardwood injected with resin. It is molded into a D shape that fits with the shape of the palm.

Some will state that Shun Classic knives are costly. And it's correct that, with a Cook's knife starting in the $100 range, these tools are not for the spendthrift. But Kai feels that premium materials and premium performance demand a premium price. And these knives absolutely come through.

Shun Elite Knives

Shun Elites are the next most purchased series in Kai's lineup. Though the Shun Elite series might resemble their Classic knives, there are a few crucial differences. The biggest dissimilarity is its steel. The Elites feature SG-2, a superior "powdered" blend.

Powdered alloys are created through a special method which permits even dispersal of compounds throughout the steel. This creates a steel that can be made very tough and, consequently, sharp.

These utensils have grips crafted of pakka wood, similar to the Classic series. It is critical to treat the knives with the same treatment as the Classics.

Shun Ken Onion Knives

Ken Onion endures as probably the most well-known knife inventor living today. Mr. Onion designed "Speed Safe", a ground-breaking instant knife-opening tool. Ken implemented various game-changing cutting instruments while working for Kershaw, some of which are the Chive, the Leek and the Blackout.

Ken Onion had no previous experience crafting kitchen cutlery, but agreed to take on the task nonetheless. This rawness was in reality beneficial to Ken as it made Ken question some of the fundamental assumptions behind kitchen knife crafting.

The resulting Shun Ken Onion line includes a damascus-patterned VG-10 blade

There are many people who abhor the knives' funky figure. Few people complain that the design works only for a specific hand size. But many others who are professionals in the industry affirm the layout, and thus it has gained a big following.

Shun Steel, Pro 2 and Others

The Shun name also consists of a few lower-profile products. Shun Steel knives feature a stainless steel grip. Shun Pro knives sport a single-bevel that allows for a narrower edge angle and, thus, a sharper blade. Shun Pro II has a textured grip, a somewhat thicker blade in addition to Shun's keenest edge.

Kai also sells value products, sold under the Kershaw Wasabi name.

More Info

Shun's website is chock full of good tidbits on their blades, techniques and designs. The Wikipedia also is short but excellent reading. Finally, here's an excellent article on The best kitchen knives