Shun Kanso Paring Knife 3.5-inch (SWT0700)

The Art of Functional Simplicity: Shun Kanso 3.5" Paring Knife


In Japanese design, 'Kanso' represents a philosophy of simplicity—eliminating the unnecessary to focus on what truly matters. The Shun Kanso Paring Knife (SWT0700) embodies this principle by stripping away flashy aesthetics in favor of raw, industrial performance. While other blades rely on decorative Damascus cladding, the Kanso relies on a solid piece of highly refined AUS10A stainless steel. This high-carbon, vanadium-enriched alloy allows for an incredibly thin, 16-degree double-bevel edge that glides through shallots, cores strawberries, and skins ginger with zero resistance.


The standout feature for both the line cook and the home enthusiast is the 'Heritage' finish. This tumbled, matte look isn't just for style; it is specifically engineered to hide the inevitable scratches that come with heavy daily use. It gives the knife a timeless, weathered aesthetic that looks better as it ages. The handle is crafted from Tagayasan wood—known in Japan as 'Iron Sword Wood'—which is remarkably dense and durable. The full-tang construction is secured by stainless steel rivets, providing the perfect balance and weight distribution required for intricate off-board peeling and detail work. Whether you are de-veining shrimp for a dinner service or precisely segmenting citrus for a morning garnish, the Kanso paring knife provides the tactile feedback and edge retention required for elite-level prep.

SKU: SWT0700

Availability: In stock

$94.95
  • Details

    Product Specs & Technical Highlights

    • Primary SKU / Model ID: SWT0700
    • Steel Type: AUS10A High-Carbon Vanadium Stainless Steel
    • Blade Construction: Solid, refined single-layer steel for maximum durability
    • Blade Length: 3.5 inches (90 mm)
    • Blade Width: 0.866 inches
    • Spine Thickness: 1.5 mm at the heel
    • Rockwell Hardness: 59-60 HRC for superior edge retention
    • Edge Angle: 16° double-bevel (32° total)
    • Finish: Tumbled 'Heritage' finish to mask scratches and reduce surface friction
    • Handle Material: Tagayasan (Iron Sword Wood)
    • Handle Design: Traditional contoured grip, full-tang, triple-riveted
    • Country of Manufacture: Handcrafted in Seki City, Japan
    • Best For: Coring, peeling, trimming, and small-scale precision slicing

    Trade-off Note: The 59/60 HRC provides excellent sharpness but requires honing with a ceramic rod rather than traditional steel to avoid micro-chipping.


    When We Recommend the Shun Kanso Series

    Who it Fits Best

    This is our top recommendation for the 'No-Nonsense' cook. It is ideal for professionals who need a Japanese edge but don't want to worry about scratching a delicate Damascus finish during a hectic shift, and home users who appreciate a rugged, industrial aesthetic.

    Where it Excels

    The Kanso paring knife is unbeatable for 'in-hand' work. Its balance point is slightly toward the handle, making it feel nimble when you are peeling grapes or mushrooms away from a cutting board.

    Professional Comparisons

    The Kanso is more durable than the Shun Classic due to its solid-steel construction, though it lacks the 'non-stick' properties of the Classic's Damascus cladding. It feels more substantial in the hand than a Global paring knife.

    Chef Feedback

    "Chefs love the Tagayasan wood; it doesn't get slippery even when working with wet produce or fatty proteins, which is critical for a small knife where grip precision is everything."

    Trade-offs & Considerations

    Because it is a high-carbon stainless steel, it is more brittle than a softer German knife (like Wusthof). Do not use this to pry or hit pits in stone fruits, as the edge may chip.

    Additional Info

    Blade Length (Inches) 3.5 in.
    Blade Length (mm) 90 mm
    Blade Width (inches) 0.866
    Grind 50/50 Bevel
    Steel Type AUS10
    Rockwell Hardness 59/60
    Stainless Yes
    Handle Material Tagayasan Wood
    Spine Thickness (mm) 1.5
    Brand Shun
    Country of Manufacture Japan
    SKU SWT0700
    Manufacturer's Part Number SWT0700
    Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price $119.00

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