Shun Classic Paring Knife 3.5 in
- 3.5 inch blade, piercing tip
- VG-MAX core, 68 layers of Damascus cladding
- 16 degree edge, free sharpening and honing
- D-shaped Pakkawood handle, left or right hand
- 147 g, 8.75 inches overall
- Lifetime warranty, handcrafted in Japan
Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A compact forged knife with a hard core and a handle shaped for both hands, suited to fine work on small produce. Hand washing is recommended even though it is listed as dishwasher safe.
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ASIN: B0000Y7KG8Category: Paring Knives
Overview
Shun makes the Classic paring knife for peeling and coring fruit and vegetables with control. A VG-MAX steel core is wrapped in layered Damascus cladding, and the D-shaped Pakkawood handle fits left and right hands. Kai forges it in Japan.
A fine edge angle and a compact blade give it precision on small work, and the maker offers free sharpening and honing. The limitation is care: the listing advises hand washing, and the Pakkawood handle can suffer from long soaks.
Who it's for
Home cooks who handle fruit and herbs often and will hand wash will get the most from the fine edge. Someone who wants a rugged, wash-anywhere knife may prefer a simpler stainless handle.
Pros and cons
- Hard VG-MAX core holds a fine edge
- Damascus cladding resists sticking
- Handle fits left and right hands
- Free sharpening and honing offered
- Hand wash recommended
- Wood handle needs dry storage
- Small blade for larger produce
Performance notes
A narrow, short blade lets the hand control the tip for peeling and trimming, and a shallow edge angle slices with little pressure. The hard core resists dulling, while the softer cladding around it protects against chipping. A steel bolster guards the knuckles.
Where it stands among paring knives
- #10 most-searched brand and model of the 44 paring knives lines we track (by search demand, not sales).
From the specs of the 115 paring knives we list; not a test result.
Specifications
| Brand | Shun |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & fit | |
| BladeLength | 3.5 inches |
| Item Length | 8.75 incheshigher than 73% of 76 paring knives |
| Item weight | 147 g |
| Construction & materials | |
| Blade Material Type | VG-MAX core, Damascus stainless cladding |
| Construction Type | Forged |
| Color | Black |
| Handle Material | Pakkawood |
| Warranty & support | |
| Manufacturer warranty description | Lifetime Warranty |
| Other details | |
| Blade Edge | Plain |
| Edge angle | 16 degrees |
Closest rivals on specs
Frequently asked questions
How should I wash the Shun Classic paring knife?
Hand washing is recommended. The listing notes it is dishwasher safe but says hand washing is the better way.
Is it suitable for left-handed users?
Yes. The D-shaped Pakkawood handle is described as comfortable for left and right-handed users.
Does Shun sharpen it?
The listing says the knife is supported by free sharpening and honing.
Where is it made?
The description says handcrafted in Japan by Kai.