9 Best Shun Knives 2026 in the United States

The Shun Premier 15-piece Knife Block Set is a well-crafted collection designed for those who appreciate finely made Japanese-style kitchen knives. The blades are made with VG-MAX steel and feature 34 layers of Damascus cladding, which not only adds to the toughness and edge retention but also gives the knives a beautiful, hammered finish that helps food slide off easily while cutting. Each blade is hand-sharpened to a very sharp 16° angle, making slicing and chopping precise and efficient.

This set includes a wide variety of knives, from paring and utility knives to a chef’s knife, bread knife, and steak knives, covering almost every home cooking need. The handles are made from walnut PakkaWood, designed to be comfortable for both right- and left-handed users, giving a secure grip. The knives are forged with a full tang, which generally means better balance and durability. However, these knives are not dishwasher safe and require gentle hand washing to maintain their quality.

Consider the weight and balance; while the set is praised for its balance, some users might find the traditional Japanese knives lighter and may need a short adjustment period if used to heavier Western-style knives. The hollow blade edge helps reduce food sticking, but the delicate steel demands careful handling to avoid chipping. This Shun set suits home cooks who want professional-level knives with excellent sharpness, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a solid choice for those willing to invest in knife care and appreciate Japanese craftsmanship. Users looking for dishwasher-safe or lower-maintenance knives might find this set less convenient.

The Shun Classic 23 Piece Knife Block Set stands out for those who want a comprehensive collection of high-quality Japanese-style kitchen knives. Its blades are made from VG-MAX stainless steel with 34 layers of Damascus cladding, providing excellent sharpness and durability. The fine double-bevel edge sharpened at a 16° angle on each side makes these knives extremely precise for detailed cutting tasks. The set covers a wide range of knife types, from small paring knives to an 8-inch chef's knife and a 9-inch bread knife, making it versatile enough for most kitchen needs. Each handle is crafted from ebony PakkaWood, which is both sturdy and moisture-resistant, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip. Weighing around 19 pounds including the block, the set feels solid but is manageable for everyday use.

A notable plus is that the knives are handcrafted in Seki, Japan, a region famous for expert blade making. However, the knives are not dishwasher safe and require careful hand washing and drying. Additionally, the price and comprehensive size might be overwhelming for casual cooks who don’t need so many knives. The included bamboo block is a nice touch for organized storage but adds to the overall weight. For those seeking a long-lasting, sharp, and beautifully designed knife set suitable for serious home cooking or gifting, this set represents a strong option. Those who prefer something lighter or with fewer pieces might find it more than necessary.

The Shun Classic 10-piece Knife Block Set is a well-crafted collection designed for home cooks who appreciate quality and variety. The blades are made from VG-MAX high carbon stainless steel with 34 layers of Damascus cladding, which means they are sharp, durable, and resistant to corrosion. Each blade is hand-sharpened at a precise 16° angle, offering excellent cutting performance and precision. The set includes a wide range of knives, from a small 3.5-inch paring knife to a versatile 8-inch chef's knife and a 9-inch carving knife, covering most kitchen needs. The hollow edges on some knives help reduce food sticking, making slicing smoother.

Handles are made of D-shaped ebony PakkaWood, which is strong and moisture-resistant, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Weighing about 11.75 pounds for the whole set including the bamboo block, the knives have a balanced feel that should suit most users. These knives require careful hand washing to maintain their quality, as they're not dishwasher safe. While the set is a bit of an investment and might be more than necessary for casual cooks, it is an excellent choice for anyone aiming to upgrade their kitchen tools with professional-grade Japanese knives.

The included honing steel and kitchen shears add extra value, helping keep the knives in good shape and increasing versatility.