The 18 cm Chinese knife from the Shun Classic Series by KAI is an extremely efficient and versatile tool, designed to deliver excellent performance at every stage of preparation. Its wide, thin, and perfectly balanced blade allows for rapid chopping, slicing, and mincing, while ensuring precision and control. Thanks to its large surface, it is also ideal for scooping and transferring ingredients directly into the pot or wok, making it an indispensable companion in the busiest kitchens.
The core of the blade is crafted from VG-MAX steel with a hardness of 61 (±1) HRC, a material that ensures a sharp, durable, and long-lasting edge. The 32 layers of Damascus steel that surround the core create an elegant and distinctive pattern, as well as ensuring a solid, resilient, and highly wear-resistant structure. Symmetrical sharpening on both sides promotes a smooth and consistent cut, ideal for the rapid, repeated operations typical of Asian cuisine.
The pakkawood handle, crafted in the traditional Japanese chestnut shape, offers an ergonomic, stable, and comfortable grip. The high-quality resins in the material provide high resistance to moisture and deterioration, while the continuous tang ensures perfect balance despite the generous cutting surface. The 18 cm Shun Classic Chinese knife is the ideal choice for those seeking versatility, reliability, and professional performance in a single tool.
Blade length: 18 cm
Shipping time: 5-7 days
FAQs
What characterises the Kai Shun Classic series?
The Kai Shun Classic series is one of the most iconic lines by Kai. The blades feature a VG-MAX steel core clad with 32 layers of Damascus steel on each side (64 total), reaching a hardness of about 61 HRC. This construction provides excellent edge retention, strength and cutting precision, along with the distinctive Damascus pattern on the blade. The pakkawood handle, shaped in the traditional “D-shape”, ensures ergonomic grip, stability and good balance.
Who is this series recommended for?
It is recommended for professional chefs and demanding cooking enthusiasts looking for high-quality knives with exceptional cutting precision and Japanese craftsmanship.
What type of use is it ideal for?
It is ideal for precise cutting tasks and daily food preparation involving fish, meat and vegetables, thanks to the thin and extremely sharp blade.
How should it be maintained?
Regular whetstone sharpening, wooden or synthetic cutting boards and hand washing with immediate drying are recommended to preserve the edge, Damascus blade and handle.
What characterises the KAI series?
The KAI series stands out for the combination of Japanese tradition and modern manufacturing, providing reliable knives for conscious and precise kitchen use.
Who is this series recommended for?
It is suitable for professionals and advanced enthusiasts seeking consistent performance and quality.
What type of use is it ideal for?
It is ideal for everyday preparation and precise cutting tasks.
How should it be maintained?
Regular whetstone sharpening and proper cutting boards help preserve performance.
What distinguishes Japanese knives from Western ones?
Thinner geometries, sharper edge angles and an approach focused on precision and clean cutting.
Santoku or Gyuto: which should you choose?
The santoku is compact and versatile for everyday use; the gyuto is closer to a classic chef’s knife and is ideal for long cuts and sustained work.
Are Japanese knives more delicate?
Yes, they often require more care: they are not suitable for bones, frozen foods or twisting, but offer superior cutting performance when used correctly.
How do you properly sharpen a Japanese knife?
Whetstone sharpening is ideal: a medium grit for maintenance and a finer grit for finishing, adapting the choice to the steel and usage.