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Kai Shun Classic Series 18 cm Damascus Santoku Knife

€233.40 €191.31
Availability: In stock
Kai Shun Santoku Knife cm. 18 The Shun chef’s knife series is one of the world’s most extensive knife series made of damask steel. It is well received among the cooking elite and ambitious hobby chefs. Shun professional chef’s knives are made from a newly developed stainless damask steel with 32 layers. The inner layer is made from V-gold-10 steel. This steel is highly resistant to corrosion, extremely hard (61±1 HRC) and the reason for the blade being incomparably and lastingly sharp.
The convex blade profile in combination with the hand honing of each Shun knife makes for an unrivalled sharpness that allows the knife to glide softly through even the toughest foodstuffs. Paired with the knife’s well-balanced weight this sharpness allows for non-fatigue work.
The refinement of the natural beauty of the damask structure gives each SHUN knife its unique and individual character. Thus every single SHUN knife is turned into a unique specimen – a piece of art that combines craftsmanship, technology and design.
The SHUN chef’s knife series has adapted the manufacturing technique for the finest chef’s knives - which derives from the Japanese way of forging Samurai swords - to the production of Western-style blades.
Blade length: 18 cm.
Handle length: 12,2 cm
Blade material: Stainless Damask Steel 32 Layers
Cutting edge: double-edged
Handle material: laminated Pakka wood. Shipping time: 5-7 days
FAQs
What is the ideal length for a chef's knife?
The most common length for a chef's knife is 20 cm (8 inches), which is perfect for most kitchen tasks. However, the ideal choice depends on several factors: Hand size: Smaller hands handle 16–18 cm blades more comfortably, while larger hands may prefer a 21–25 cm blade. Personal habits: Those who favor broad movements and long cuts might lean toward longer knives; those who prioritize precision or work in tight spaces might prefer a shorter blade. Experience level: Beginners tend to choose shorter, more manageable blades, while professionals often prefer 21 or 24 cm knives for greater efficiency. In short, there is no “perfect” size for everyone — the right length should be chosen based on comfort, control, and intended use.
What’s the best way to store kitchen knives?

Avoid keeping them loose in drawers, where they can get damaged or become a safety hazard. It’s better to use a wooden block, magnetic strip, or blade guard. You can find the right solution in our catalog.
Do you have professional chef knives?
Yes, in our ecommerce store you will find only professional and high-quality chef knives. Each model is selected to meet the needs of chefs, cooks, and cooking enthusiasts who seek reliable, sharp, and durable tools. We offer a complete range of professional kitchen knives, ideal for precision cutting, meat, fish, vegetables, and much more. You will find slicing knives, santoku, paring knives, and other models commonly used in professional kitchens. We collaborate only with brands recognized at the professional level, such as [e.g., Victorinox, Global, Kai, F. Dick, Ambrogio Sanelli, Wüsthof, etc.], to offer you the best in performance and safety in the kitchen
Can I put knives in the dishwasher?

It’s highly discouraged. High heat and aggressive detergents can damage both blade and handle. Knives can also knock against other items, dulling the edge.
What does "blade hardness" mean?

Hardness refers to how resistant the steel is, measured on the Rockwell scale (HRC). The harder the steel, the better it retains its edge—but it’s also more brittle and prone to chipping.
What materials are used for knife blades?
Blades can be made of stainless steel (rust-resistant), carbon steel (very sharp but delicate), or ceramic (lightweight and razor-sharp but fragile). Premium knives often use Damascus steel or advanced alloys. Not sure which to choose? Contact us—AFcoltellerie has them all.
What are knife handles made of?
Handles can be made of wood (classic but delicate), plastic (durable and hygienic), or technical materials like micarta or G-10, which are extremely tough and non-slip even when wet.
What’s the best knife for beginners?
A 20 cm chef’s knife is the most versatile option to start with. Paired with a paring knife, it covers most everyday kitchen needs.
What are the grooves (granton edge) on a blade for?
The grooves or “granton edge” reduce friction and prevent food from sticking to the blade. They’re especially useful with wet or soft foods like fish, cheese, or vegetables.
Are there knives for left-handed users?
Yes. Some single-bevel Japanese knives are made specifically for right- or left-handed use. Many universal knives, with a double bevel, work well for both.
European or Japanese knives: what’s the difference?
European knives are sturdier, with thick, curved blades for rocking cuts and tough ingredients. Japanese knives have thinner, harder blades for clean, precise slicing—but they’re also more fragile. In short: Europeans are durable and versatile, Japanese are sharp and surgical.
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.
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