Design

The aesthetic is defined by the "Blonde" collection’s light-toned PakkaWood handle and a stunning hammered blade finish that evokes the look of ancient hand-forged swords. This 9-inch knife features a contoured, symmetrical handle that fits comfortably in either hand, while the polished stainless steel end cap and 68 layers of Damascus cladding provide a bright, modern look that illuminates any kitchen workspace.

Durability

Built in Seki City, Japan, through a meticulous 100-step handcrafted process, this knife features a proprietary VG-MAX cutting core with a Rockwell hardness of $60\text{–}61$. The "tsuchime" finish acts like hollow-ground cavities to reduce drag, while the 34 micro-layers of stainless steel on each side protect the hard steel core from corrosion and wear, ensuring the blade remains structurally sound for a lifetime of use.

Care

To maintain the high-carbon edge and the beauty of the blonde PakkaWood, it is essential to hand-wash the blade with mild dish soap and towel dry it immediately; it should never be placed in a dishwasher. To prevent the hard steel from chipping, only use wood or plastic cutting boards and avoid cutting on surfaces like marble or glass; ensure the knife is stored in a block or sheath to protect the serrated edge from contact with other metal tools.

Notable Features

The specialized "low-frequency" serrations are spaced further apart than traditional sawtooth designs, allowing the blade to saw through hard crusts without tearing the soft interior or creating excessive crumbs. This professional-grade tool is NSF-certified and qualifies for Shun’s free lifetime sharpening service, providing a reliable solution for everything from sourdough and delicate brioche to slicing through large, tough-skinned fruits like melons