SHUN CUTLERY BLOG: KNIFE KNOWLEDGE

Shun Series Comparison Chart

Choosing the right Shun knife is easier when you can see the differences side by side. Use this comparison to explore blade materials, construction, handle designs, and grip styles across our full range of series, from handcrafted heritage to professional performance.

Feature Kohen Narukami Dual Core Premier /
Premier Blonde
Classic /
Classic Blonde
Kazahana Kanso Sora
Kohen Knife
Kohen Knife Large
Narukami Knife
Narukami Knife Large
Dual Core Knife
Dual Core Knife Large
Premier Knife
Premier Knife Large
Classic Knife
Classic Knife Large
Kazahana Knife
Kazahana Knife Large
Kanso Knife
Kanso Knife Large
Sora Knife
Sora Knife Large
Blade Features
Blade Core Steel The primary steel used at the cutting edge, determining sharpness, edge retention, and maintenance. Dual Core
(VG10 / VG2) Alternating layers of VG10 and VG2 steels provide strength, edge retention, and cutting performance.
Blue II
Carbon Steel Traditional Japanese carbon steel known for exceptional sharpness and ease of sharpening; requires proper care.
Dual Core
(VG10 / VG2) Proprietary Shun technology combining two premium steels at the cutting edge.
VG‑MAX™ Shun’s proprietary “super steel” offering excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and strength. VG‑MAX™ High‑performance stainless steel engineered exclusively for Shun. AUS10A High‑carbon stainless steel that balances durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. AUS10A Tough stainless steel with excellent everyday performance and low maintenance. VG10 A high‑carbon stainless steel known for toughness, stain resistance, and reliable edge retention.
Steel Layers The layered construction surrounding the blade core, contributing to strength, stain resistance, and appearance. 71‑Layer
Damascus Stainless steel Damascus cladding with 71 total layers supporting the cutting core.
3 Layer
San Mai Three‑layer construction with a Blue II carbon steel core protected by stainless steel outer layers.
71‑Layer
Damascus Multi‑layer Damascus construction supporting Shun’s Dual Core cutting edge.
68‑Layer
Damascus 68 layers of stainless steel Damascus cladding surrounding the VG‑MAX™ cutting core.
68‑Layer
Damascus Stainless steel Damascus cladding with 68 layers plus VG‑MAX™ cutting core.
1-Layer
Solid Steel Single‑steel blade construction made from solid AUS10A stainless steel.
1-Layer
Solid Steel Solid AUS10A stainless steel blade with no layered cladding.
3-Layer
Japanese 420J Three‑layer construction with a VG10 core and stainless steel outer layers.
Unique Features Distinct blade design elements that enhance performance or visual appeal. San Mai
Cladding Three‑layer construction with a carbon steel core and stainless steel outer layers.
Tsuchime
Finish Hammered blade surface that helps food release while enhancing visual appeal.
Composite
Blade
Technology Fusion of two different steels to optimize performance and durability.
Bevel Type The shape of the blade’s cutting edge. Double bevels are sharpened on both sides; single bevels on one side for precision cuts. Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel (16°),
Single Bevel
(Yanagiba only) Sharpened on both sides for most knives; single bevel used on Yanagiba model for precision slicing.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Double Bevel
(16°) Sharpened on both sides of the blade at a 16° angle per side for balanced performance.
Blade Construction The internal tang design of the knife, affecting strength, weight, and balance. Composite
Tang Blade is fused to a lighter tang for improved weight and ergonomics.
Full Tang Blade steel extends through the entire handle for balance, durability, and control. Rabbet
Tang Traditional tang construction inspired by samurai sword design.
Composite
Tang Blade is fused to a lighter tang for improved weight and ergonomics.
Composite
Tang Blade is fused to a lighter tang for improved weight and ergonomics.
Full Tang Blade steel extends through the entire handle for balance, durability, and control. Full Tang Blade steel extends through the entire handle for balance, durability, and control. Rabbet
Tang Traditional tang construction inspired by samurai sword design.
Rockwell Hardness Measures the hardness of the blade steel (HRC). Higher numbers indicate greater edge retention. 60–61 61–62 60–61 60–61 60–61 60–61 60 60–61
Handle Features
Handle Material Materials used to craft the knife handle, balancing comfort, grip, durability, and aesthetics. Pakkawood Durable, resin-infused hardwood offering beauty and moisture resistance. Micarta Composite of linen and resin, providing durability and slip resistance. Pakkawood Durable, resin-infused hardwood offering beauty and moisture resistance. Pakkawood Durable, resin-infused hardwood offering beauty and moisture resistance. Pakkawood Durable, resin-infused hardwood offering beauty and moisture resistance. Pakkawood Durable, resin-infused hardwood offering beauty and moisture resistance. Tagayasan
(Wenge) Dense, durable hardwood with a rich finish, traditionally used in fine tools.
Textured
PP/TPE Molded plastic and rubber blend for easy grip and cleaning.
Handle Color The color and finish of each handle, reflecting design intent and visual identity. Red/Black Rich layered red and black Pakkawood with a bold, modern finish. Black Matte black Micarta offering durability and a sleek, minimalist look. Ebony Smooth, deep black handle with traditional gloss finish. Walnut or Blonde Available in warm walnut brown or modern blonde woodgrain. Ebony or Blonde Available in glossy black or modern blonde wood options. Ebony Jet black handle offering a clean, minimal appearance. Natural Wood Earthy brown hardwood with visible straight grain. Black Matte black handle with durable grip.
Handle Shape The profile and geometry of the handle viewed from the endcap—affecting ergonomics, control, and hand fit. Kohen Endcap Asymmetrical D-Shaped Narukami Endcap Symmetrical Tapered Western-style Dual Core Endcap Symmetrical Octagonal Premier Endcap Symmetrical Contoured Oval Classic Endcap Asymmetrical D-Shaped Kazahana Endcap Symmetrical Angled Oval Kanso Endcap Symmetrical Angled Oval Sora Endcap Symmetrical Western-style Oval
Endcap The finishing element at the butt of the handle—can affect balance, aesthetics, and functionality. Embossed polished stainless steel endcap No endcap No endcap Embossed stainless steel endcap Stainless steel endcap Extended tang with integrated bottle opener Extended tang with integrated bottle opener No endcap
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