Details
Product Specs & Technical Highlights
- Primary SKU / Model ID: SWT0705
- Steel Type: AUS10A High-Carbon Stainless Steel
- Rockwell Hardness (HRC): 59/60 for superior edge retention
- Blade Length: 9 inches (230mm)
- Blade Width: 1.496 inches
- Spine Thickness: 2mm at the heel
- Edge Type: Low-frequency serrations (Wide-tooth)
- Blade Finish: 'Heritage' rustic brushed finish to mask wear
- Handle Material: Contoured Tagayasan (Iron Sword Wood)
- Construction: Full-tang for professional balance and durability
- Origin: Handcrafted in Seki, Japan
- Chef’s Note on Maintenance: While AUS10A is highly stain-resistant, the high carbon content means this knife should be hand-washed and dried immediately to maintain the integrity of the serrations and the wood handle.
When We Recommend the Shun Kanso Bread Knife
Who it Fits Best
Artisan bakers and home cooks who prioritize aesthetic simplicity and high-performance steel. It’s perfect for those who find standard bread knives too 'toothy' or aggressive.
Where it Excels
Thick-crusted sourdough, delicate brioche, and tough-skinned produce like pineapples or large tomatoes. The 9-inch length provides enough clearance for 1.5lb loaves.
Professional Comparisons
Compared to the Shun Classic, the Kanso feels more rugged and the Heritage finish is much better at hiding the scuffs of a working kitchen. It is significantly sharper than European-style bread knives but requires more careful handling due to the 60 HRC steel.
Chef Feedback
"Line cooks appreciate the Tagayasan handle; it maintains a decent grip even when hands are slightly damp from prep. The balance point is exactly where you want it for a sawing motion."
Trade-offs & Considerations
The Heritage finish is rustic by design. If you prefer the mirror-polished look of the Shun Classic or Premier lines, the Kanso's 'industrial' look might not be for you.
Additional Info
| Blade Length (Inches) | 9 in. |
|---|---|
| Blade Length (mm) | 230 mm |
| Blade Width (inches) | 1.496 |
| Grind | Serrated |
| Steel Type | AUS10 |
| Rockwell Hardness | 59/60 |
| Stainless | Yes |
| Handle Material | Tagayasan Wood |
| Spine Thickness (mm) | 2 |
| Brand | Shun |
| Country of Manufacture | Japan |
| SKU | SWT0705 |
| Manufacturer's Part Number | SWT0705 |
| Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $181.00 |
