Shun Classic 8-inch Kiritsuke (DM0771)

The Shun Classic 8-inch Kiritsuke is the knife Japanese chefs call the master chef’s knife, and it handles every task a chef’s knife would. Its long, relatively flat edge is ideal for slicing and push cuts, so it julienne, dices, and brunoises vegetables with precision, and its angled tip reaches into fine detail work. It is an excellent choice for cleaning and portioning boneless proteins, particularly fish, and it slices cooked proteins cleanly. The edge carries a slight curve as well, so the kiritsuke still accommodates a rocking cut. Cooks who try it often find it becomes their first choice. It shares the construction and handle of the entire Shun Classic line.

Features

• Kiritsuke profile: The long, flatter edge keeps the blade in contact with the board for clean slicing and push cuts, while the angled tip allows controlled detail work.
• Slightly curved edge: A gentle curve lets the knife rock through herbs when needed, so it adapts to Western technique as well as Japanese.
• VG-MAX cutting core: Shun’s proprietary steel is strong, fine-grained, and resistant to wear and corrosion, and it holds a very keen edge through extended prep.
• Stainless Damascus cladding: Layered stainless steel supports the core, adds stain resistance, and helps food release from the blade.
• Hand-sharpened double-bevel edge: The fine, symmetrical edge serves left- and right-handed cooks equally well.
• D-shaped ebony PakkaWood handle: The handle is comfortable in either hand, durable enough for daily use, and does not harbor bacteria.
• Full composite tang: The composite construction keeps the knife light and balanced.
• Handcrafted in Seki City, Japan: Each Shun Classic knife requires at least 100 individual steps to complete in Seki City, one of Japan’s most important blade-making centers since the 13th century.
• Free lifetime sharpening: Shun offers free lifetime sharpening, so the knife can be professionally sharpened by the manufacturer whenever its edge needs restoring.

Tasks It Handles Well

• Julienne, dice, and brunoise cuts
• Cleaning and portioning fish
• Trimming and portioning boneless meats
• Slicing cooked roasts and proteins
• Slicing vegetables and fruit with push cuts

Choosing Between the Kiritsuke and Its Alternatives

The Shun Classic 8-inch Chef’s Knife shares this knife’s length but has a more pronounced curved belly and a pointed tip, which favor a rocking cut. For a longer, narrower blade with a kiritsuke-style tip, the Shun Classic 9-inch Master Prep Knife brings the control of a utility knife to trimming and portioning. Cooks whose prep is mostly vegetables may prefer the fully straight edge of the Shun Classic 6.5-inch Nakiri.