Shun Classic Japanese Knives

Handcrafted Japanese Cutlery

Shun Classic Japanese Knives

Shun Classic combines traditional Japanese knife design with modern blade technology, refined materials and exceptional attention to detail. From versatile chef's knives to Santoku, Nakiri, slicing and filleting knives, the Classic series is designed for cooks who value precision, balance and a beautifully finished cutting tool.

Handcrafted in Japan Premium Japanese cutlery combining traditional craftsmanship with modern blade technology
VG-MAX Cutting Core Fine-grained stainless steel engineered for sharpness, strength and edge retention
Damascus Construction 34 layers of stainless Damascus cladding on each side surround the cutting core

The Original Shun Series

Precision, Balance & Japanese Craftsmanship

Shun Classic was created to combine the lighter feel and precision associated with Japanese knives with materials suited to demanding everyday kitchen use. Each blade uses Shun's proprietary VG-MAX cutting core, surrounded by stainless Damascus cladding and finished with a razor-sharp 16° cutting edge.

Proprietary VG-MAX cutting core
34 Damascus layers per side
69-layer construction in total
Hand-sharpened 16° edge
D-shaped ebony Pakkawood handle
Handcrafted in Japan

The Blade

VG-MAX Core with Damascus Cladding

At the centre of each Shun Classic blade is a fine-grained VG-MAX stainless steel cutting core. It is supported by 34 layers of stainless Damascus cladding on each side, creating the distinctive flowing pattern while also adding stain and corrosion resistance.

The Handle

Traditional D-Shaped Pakkawood

The ebony-coloured Pakkawood handle uses a traditional Japanese D-shaped profile designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip. Pakkawood combines genuine hardwood with resin for improved moisture resistance, strength and durability.

Find Your Knife

Which Shun Classic Knife Is Right for You?

Each blade shape is designed around a different preparation task. Use this quick guide to help choose from the Shun Classic knives available through The Chef Shop.

Chef's Knife The versatile all-rounder for chopping, slicing, dicing and everyday food preparation.
Santoku A compact Japanese all-rounder suited to preparing meat, vegetables and fish.
Nakiri A straight-edged vegetable knife designed for clean, controlled chopping and slicing.
Utility Knife A smaller versatile blade for precision work and everyday preparation between paring and chef knife tasks.
Slicing Knife A long blade for smooth, controlled slices through cooked meats and larger ingredients.
Filleting Knife Designed for controlled work around bones, fish and delicate trimming tasks.
16° Cutting Edge A fine edge designed to deliver precise, clean cutting performance.
Lightweight Balance Full composite tang construction helps provide balance without the heavy feel of some traditional Western knives.
Distinctive Damascus Finish Layered stainless steel creates the flowing pattern that gives every Shun Classic blade its recognisable appearance.
Shun Classic or Shun Premier? Both ranges use premium VG-MAX steel and are handcrafted in Japan. Shun Classic has the recognisable flowing Damascus finish and ebony-coloured D-shaped handle, while Shun Premier adds a hammered Tsuchime surface, warm brown Pakkawood handle and a more elaborate three-texture blade design.
Explore Shun Premier
Protect Your Shun Knife Hand wash with gentle dish soap after use, rinse and towel dry immediately. Avoid dishwashers, prolonged soaking and abrasive cleaners. Store your knife in a suitable knife block, tray, sheath or knife case to help protect the fine cutting edge.
Hand Wash Only
Looking for Another Japanese Knife? Compare Shun Classic with our other Japanese knife ranges, including KAI Wasabi and Shun Premier, or browse the wider kitchen knife collection for more brands, blade styles and price points.
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About Shun Classic Japanese Knives


Shun Classic is a premium Japanese kitchen knife range combining traditional Japanese design with modern blade materials and precision craftsmanship. Handcrafted in Japan, Shun Classic knives feature a proprietary VG-MAX stainless steel cutting core surrounded by 34 layers of stainless Damascus cladding on each side.


The range is designed around a razor-sharp 16° cutting edge and lightweight, balanced construction. Traditional D-shaped ebony Pakkawood handles provide a secure grip while giving the knives the distinctive appearance associated with Shun Classic.


Our Shun Classic collection includes versatile chef's knives alongside Japanese Santoku and Nakiri knives, utility knives, slicing knives and filleting knives for a variety of professional and home kitchen preparation tasks.


To care for your Shun knife, hand wash it with gentle dish soap and dry it immediately after use. Avoid dishwashers and store the knife safely to protect its fine edge. For more options, browse our Japanese knife collection or explore all kitchen knives available from The Chef Shop.