US
Shun

Shun Classic Kiritsuke Knife 8 in

  • 8 inch kiritsuke, plain edge, forged
  • VG-MAX steel core, 68 layers of Damascus cladding
  • 16-degree edge
  • D-shaped Pakkawood handle, left or right hand
  • 9.6 oz, 13.5 inches overall
  • Handcrafted in Japan, free sharpening and honing

Last refreshed Sep 7, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A handcrafted kiritsuke with a VG-MAX core, layered Damascus cladding and a handle for either hand. The listing gives no care steps or warranty terms.

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ASIN: B00IZMUWUICategory: Chef's Knives

Colors Available

BlackBlonde

Sizes Available

6"

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Overview

A cook who wants a versatile Japanese blade for fruits, vegetables and meat gets a kiritsuke whose steel heart is wrapped in Damascus cladding. A D-shaped Pakkawood handle gives a secure grip.

Layered cladding protects a hard core, and the maker backs the knife with free sharpening and honing. The limitation is shape, since the description calls a kiritsuke a specialized tool, and care steps are absent.

Who it's for

Left- and right-handed cooks who prepare fruit, vegetables and meat and like a layered Damascus finish get a handle designed for both. Those who want a familiar Western chef's shape should look at a different knife.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • VG-MAX steel core
  • D-shaped Pakkawood handle
  • Free sharpening and honing
Cons
  • Care steps not listed
  • Specialized kiritsuke shape
  • Warranty terms missing

Performance notes

The steel heart gives the fine edge, and the many cladding layers protect it, per the description. The D-shaped handle gives the same grip in either hand, and the forged build balances the blade.

Specifications

BrandShun
Dimensions & fit
BladeLength8 inches
Item Length13.5 incheshigher than 61% of 60 chef's knives
Item weight9.6 ounces
Construction & materials
Blade Material TypeVG-MAX core with Damascus stainless cladding
Construction TypeForged, 68-layer cladding
ColorBlack
Blade ColorSilver
Handle MaterialD-shaped Pakkawood
Warranty & support
WarrantyFree sharpening and honing
Other details
Blade EdgePlain
Edge angle16 degrees
Country of originJapan

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Frequently asked questions

Does the Shun Classic kiritsuke need setup or sharpening first?

No assembly applies. The maker supports the knife with free sharpening and honing, and the listing gives no first-use steps.

What is a kiritsuke used for?

The description calls it a specialized tool for a wide range of tasks, including fruits, vegetables and meat.

Is the handle suited to left-handed use?

Yes. The D-shaped Pakkawood handle is described as comfortable for both left and right-handed users.

Where is the Shun Classic kiritsuke made?

Handcrafted in Japan.