Shun Premier 7" Santoku Knife — 7-inch VG-MAX core, 68-layer Damascus with tsuchime finish

The Shun Premier 7-inch Santoku Knife is a versatile Japanese kitchen knife with a VG-MAX core, 68-layer Damascus cladding and a hammered tsuchime finish for reduced drag and precise 16° edge cutting.

Designed and handcrafted in Japan, the Shun Premier Santoku blends traditional blade-making with modern materials to give home cooks and professional chefs a nimble, all-purpose slicer. Slightly shorter than a standard chef's knife, the 7" Santoku excels at vegetables, proteins and fruit where quick, controlled cuts matter. The knife pairs a durable VG-MAX steel core with 68 layers of Damascus cladding for lasting edge retention and a striking patterned finish; its hammered tsuchime texture helps release food while slicing, and the contoured Pakkawood handle offers secure comfort for extended prep sessions. Shun supports this model with free sharpening and honing services to keep performance peak.

How does the 7" Santoku perform for everyday kitchen tasks?

This Santoku is tuned for frequent, varied prep work: its 7-inch blade gives a balanced reach for slicing, dicing and mincing while staying easy to control. The thin 16° edge and VG-MAX steel deliver clean cuts without excessive force, reducing bruising of delicate produce. The hammered tsuchime surface also helps keep slices from sticking.

• Ideal for vegetables, boneless proteins and fruit
• 16° edge for precise, thin slicing
• Tsuchime finish minimizes food sticking and drag
• Shorter blade provides nimble wrist control and safety

What materials and construction give this knife its edge?

The blade centers on a VG-MAX steel core, chosen for hardness and corrosion resistance, surrounded by 68 layers of stainless Damascus cladding for impact resistance and visual appeal. The combination yields a long-lasting, razor-ready edge while tempering brittleness. Handcrafting in Japan ensures consistent geometry and finish.

• VG-MAX core for edge retention and toughness
• 68-layer Damascus cladding for durability and patterning
• 16° factory edge for immediate sharpness out of the box
• Handmade finishing for consistent cutting geometry

How comfortable and safe is the handle for daily use?

The Shun Premier uses a contoured Pakkawood handle crafted to fit a wide range of hand sizes and grips, supporting both left- and right-handed users. The ergonomics reduce pinch points and improve balance between blade and handle, making repetitive tasks less tiring. The treated Pakkawood also provides water resistance with a natural feel.

• Contoured Pakkawood for secure, comfortable grip
• Balanced weight distribution for reduced wrist strain
• Ambidextrous handle shape suitable for various grips
• Durable finish resists moisture and maintains appearance

How should I maintain and sharpen this Santoku?

Shun recommends hand washing and immediate drying to protect the Damascus cladding and Pakkawood handle; avoid dishwashers. For long-term edge care, use the included free sharpening and honing service or maintain the angle with a whetstone or quality sharpening system that supports ~16° per side techniques.

• Hand wash with mild soap; dry immediately
• Avoid abrasive pads and the dishwasher
• Use a whetstone or pro service to maintain 16° edge
• Shun offers complimentary sharpening and honing support

Who is this for: The Shun Premier 7" Santoku Knife is aimed at home cooks and culinary professionals who want a versatile, high-performance slicer that balances nimble control with premium materials. It's especially well suited to cooks who prepare a mix of vegetables, fruit and boneless proteins and who value long-term edge retention, refined Japanese craftsmanship and a comfortable, attractive knife they can use every day.