Automatic Knife Release Form

You must read and fill out this form before Kai USA, Ltd. can sell to you, or ship to you, any Automatic or Butterfly Knives. By electronically signing this online form, you confirm that you are in compliance with the federal statutes shown below as well as any applicable state and local regulation.

By placing an order or receiving a product service (such as warranty repair service) from us, you agree that you meet any or all of the following criteria:

APPLICABLE FEDERAL STATUTES

18 U.S.C. § 1716 (G) (2) (1-4) provides, in summary:

Switchblade (automatic) knives can be shipped to civilian and armed forces supply or procurement officers and employees of the federal government ordering or procuring or purchasing such knives in connection with activities of the Federal government; to supply or procurement officers in the National Guard, the Air National Guard or militia of the state or territory of the District of Columbia ordering, procuring or purchasing such knives in connections with the activities of such organizations; to supply or procurement officers or employees of the municipal government of the District of Columbia or the government of any state or territory of any county, city or other political subdivision of a state or territory ordering, procuring or purchasing such knives in connection with the activities of such government.

15 U.S.C. § 1244 provides, in summary:

Knives can be shipped by common carrier; that sale, transportation or distribution, possession or introduction into interstate commerce of switchblade knives is authorized if it is pursuant to a contract with the armed forces; or, any member or employee thereof acting in the performance of his or her duty may possess switchblade knives and may have them shipped to him and sold to him or her. The possession and transportation upon his or her person of a switchblade knife or a blade 3 inches or less is authorized to any handicapped individual who has the use of only one arm.

STATE LAW PROVISIONS

It would be impossible to provide an exhaustive review of the laws that may apply in the various fifty states and in the various counties, parishes, municipalities, and other political subdivisions within each state. By signing this form below, you will be certifying that in addition to complying with federal law, you have determined which, if any, state or local laws apply to you, and that you are acting in compliance with those laws.

No Post Office Box addresses can be used on this form. Item(s) must be sent in going UPS or Fed Ex. No USPS shipments will be accepted. If the address that you have filled out on this form is no longer a valid address, you must contact us and fill out a new form.

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  • 1800 SW Teton Avenue
  • Tualatin, OR 97062
  • Phone: 503-682-1966
  • Toll Free: 800-325-2891
  • Fax: 503-682-7168
  • kaiusa.com
Dual Core: Sharpness Redefined.Dual Core: Sharpness Redefined.

Revolutionary Dual-Core Technology

The secret to Dual Core’s sharpness lies in its innovative blade construction, featuring 71 alternating micro layers of VG10 and VG2 steels. VG10 offers lasting edge retention, while VG2’s blend of elements enhances durability. The unique multiple forging processes first laminate the two steels together, then create the distinctive Damascus pattern. This pattern generates micro serrations as the steels wear differently, enhancing performance over time.

Close up of the detailed patterning on a Dual Core blade.Close up of the detailed patterning on a Dual Core blade.
A Dual Core Nakiri sits next to a shredded purple cabbage.A Dual Core Nakiri sits next to a shredded purple cabbage.

Unmatched Edge Retention

As you use your Dual Core knives, micro serrations form due to the different wear rates of the two steels. These micro serrations act like tiny saw teeth, enhancing cutting power and maintaining peak performance between blade sharpenings. This feature provides a consistently smooth and effortless cutting experience.

Exquisite Blade Design

Dual Core’s blade showcases a stunning Damascus pattern created by its alternating micro layers of steel, with the patterns extending to the cutting edge. This intricate design is the key to Dual Core's performance. It enhances the blade’s strength, promotes the formation of micro serrations as the steel wears, and aids in food release.

A Dual Core Kiritsuke points downwards on a tabletop, next to kiwi and citrus fruit.A Dual Core Kiritsuke points downwards on a tabletop, next to kiwi and citrus fruit.
The endcap of a Dual Core knife.The endcap of a Dual Core knife.

Superior Handle Craftsmanship 

The traditional Japanese octagonal handles of Shun’s Dual Core knives are crafted from ebony-colored Pakkawood, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Inspired by samurai swords, the rabbet tang construction controls the weight and enhances maneuverability. Pakkawood is water-resistant, durable, and won’t harbor bacteria, ensuring longevity and hygiene.

Elegant Blade Protection

All Shun Dual Core knives come with a beautifully crafted beech wood saya (sheath) to protect the blade—and your fingers—during storage. The wooden saya features a traditional locking pin tied with red thread, ensuring secure storage. The saya fits loosely to allow breathability and prevent moisture buildup. This elegant protection enhances both the knife’s aesthetic appeal and longevity.

A Dual Core Kiritsuke is being removed from its wooden saya.A Dual Core Kiritsuke is being removed from its wooden saya.

Explore Our Dual Core Blades

The Dual Core lineup offers a variety of blade shapes, each meticulously crafted to deliver  precision and durability for all your kitchen needs.

8” Kiritsuke

A Dual Core Kiritsuke sits next sliced pears and whole pears on a cutting board.A Dual Core Kiritsuke sits next sliced pears and whole pears on a cutting board.

Best Uses

  • Slicing vegetables
  • Portioning boneless proteins
  • Cleaning and slicing fish
  • Julienne, dice, and brunoise cuts
  • Slicing cooked meats

In Japan, the Kiritsuke is known as the master chef's knife, ideal for all the tasks of a traditional chef's knife. Perfect for vegetables, it excels at julienne, dice, and brunoise cuts, and is excellent for cleaning and portioning boneless proteins, especially fish.

10.5” Yanagiba

A Dual Core Yanagiba lies on a cutting board next to a filet of salmon.A Dual Core Yanagiba lies on a cutting board next to a filet of salmon.

Best Uses

  • Slicing sushi and sashimi
  • Cutting raw fish
  • Precision slicing tasks
  • Preparing delicate proteins
  • Traditional Japanese cuisine

The Dual Core Yanagiba has the length, weight, and a right-handed, single-bevel design of a traditional Japanese yanagiba. Its thicker blade stock provides the heft and rigidity needed to glide through cuts with ease. This knife is perfect for precise slicing, especially for sushi.

7” Santoku

A Dual Core Santoku lies next to three ripe plums.A Dual Core Santoku lies next to three ripe plums.

Best Uses

  • Slicing vegetables
  • Slicing meats
  • Dicing fruits
  • Mincing herbs
  • General kitchen prep

This beautiful, Asian-inspired chef's knife is designed to be your most versatile cutting tool. The Santoku excels in all basic kitchen tasks, with a slightly shorter, lighter, and more agile blade than a standard chef's knife. It's perfect for a wide range of cutting needs.

6.5” Nakiri

A Dual Core Nakiri sits next to a sliced onion and a bowl of salad.A Dual Core Nakiri sits next to a sliced onion and a bowl of salad.

Best Uses

  • Slicing and dicing vegetables
  • Preparing plant-based dishes
  • Cutting fruits
  • Mincing herbs
  • General kitchen prep

The Nakiri is a Japanese-style vegetable knife, renowned for its graceful yet practical blade shape. Loved by both professional chefs and home cooks, its blunt tip adds safety, while the edge excels at slicing and dicing with ease. This knife is perfect for plant-based cooking and a variety of cuisines.

6” Utility/Butchery Knife

A profile image of the Dual Core Utility/Butchery knife.A profile image of the Dual Core Utility/Butchery knife.

Best Uses

  • Trimming meats 
  • Butchery tasks
  • Preparing sandwiches
  • Cutting small to medium-sized fruits
  • Trimming vegetables

The Utility/Butchery Knife is a versatile blade, perfectly sized between a chef's knife and a paring knife. Designed primarily for off-the-board tasks, its slim, razor-sharp edge excels at butchery tasks like trimming meat and skin and removing bones.

The Kohen Knife set is propped on a table in front of its carrying case.The Kohen Knife set is propped on a table in front of its carrying case.

Limited Edition: Kohen Set

The Limited Edition Shun Kohen Set features the same revolutionary technology as our Dual Core series. Embodying exquisite craftsmanship and unmatched sharpness, it is a once-in-a-lifetime addition to your culinary collection.