Those who like to cook need the perfect knife to make their meal prep easy and fast. To cut, slice, and chop meat and vegetables, you need a sharp, perfectly balanced, durable, and multi-purpose knife.
Japanese knives have been famous worldwide for a long time, and Shun is known for its premier knives. The Shun Premier 6-inch Chef’s Knife is a knife you can use for almost all purposes in the kitchen. For slicing both vegetables and meat, the sharp edge of Shun Premier Chef’s Knife takes care of business with ease.
Let’s move on to the details of the Shun Premier Chef’s Knife.
Shun Premier Chef’s Knife
The Edge
Knifemakers love to talk about edge geometry which is the angle of the edge of the knife. For example, traditional German knives are 22 degrees on both sides, but the blade on this Shun knife is 16 degrees.
400;”>Therefore, it is sharper than traditional European knives. However, it will maintain its edge because Shun uses superior steel.
The Steel
If you can imagine it, steel is a lot like cake. All cakes contain common ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter. But they can also contain other ingredients, which can define the flavor, color, and texture even in a small amount.
In steel, iron and carbon are like flour and sugar. The other substances are in small amounts but significantly affect the quality of the stainless steel. Chromium, cobalt, vanadium, molybdenum, manganese are these substances. Shun uses VG-MAX super steel, which is a superior version of the VG-10 steel.
VG-MAX includes more carbon to increase its strength and durability. In addition, chromium is used for corrosion resistance; cobalt increases strength, and tungsten makes the steel very fine so that you can create a sharp edge. Vanadium enhances impact resistance and cutting performance. Finally, molybdenum boosts corrosion resistance and increases the strength of the steel.
Construction of the Blade
The Shun Premier Chef’s Knife uses the Kasumi technique in the finishing process. Kasumi is the Japanese word for ‘mist.’ The blade has a smooth, soft exterior like mist; however, internally, it is tough and will produce a very sharp edge. From a historical perspective, this technique was first used to make samurai swords. The Kasumi technique makes knife sharpening easy.
The Shun Premier Chef’s Knife goes through a hammered Tsuchime finishing process. Two things are happening here. First, the knife gets a look that reminds us of ancient Japanese handcrafting techniques. Second, the process generates tiny air pockets that look like small holes that prevent the blade from dragging food particles. As a result, foods will not get stuck on the knife while cutting.
The Shun Premier Chef’s Knife has a beautiful Damascus pattern on both sides of it. Damascus steel is known for its multiple layers, which help the cutting core remain strong for a long time. In addition, it enables the blade to glide through food effortlessly.
The Handle
The handle of Shun Premier Chef’s Knife is Pakkawood which comprises pieces of hardwood veneer dyed with bright colors and plastic resin, which makes it waterproof. Therefore, the handle doesn’t absorb moisture. In addition, there is no chance of the knife slipping from your hand. The finish of the handle is eye-catching, and no two Pakkawood handles look the same. In addition, despite the resin, it has a natural wood appearance.
Maintenance
You cannot expect your knife to remain in good condition without taking care of it. Most of the damage to the cutting edge of the blade does not come from poor cutting practices.Instead, it is due to using the wrong washing and storage. You should hand wash the knifeand let it air dry. You can then store it in a storage rack once it is thoroughly dry. For sharpening, you can send it to Shun or use a Whetstone knife sharpener.
Basic Specifications of the Shun Premier Chef’s Knife
| Manufacturer | Shun |
| Item model number | TDM0723 |
| Item dimension | 11 x 0.75 x 1.62 inches |
| Item weight | 4.9 ounces |
| Shipping weight | 4.9 ounces |
| Blade size | 6 inches |
- Very lightweight knife
- Gorgeous look
- Razor-sharp
- Very low chance of dragging
- The hammered Tsuchime finish makes it a flawless cutter
- Pakkawood handle gives a very comfortable grip
- 400;”>Price of the knife is a bit higher
- You have to wash it by hand although it is dishwasher safe
- The knife very sharp so there is a chance of injury
Frequently Asked Questions
I am Not a Professional Chef. Is it the Right Choice for Me?
I have reviewed a lot of knives, including this Shun Premier Knife. Everybody who loves to cook and work in the kitchen can use it. Shun makes excellent knives that are good for every skill level.
I Think the Price Is Too High for This Kind of Knife. Is It Worth My Money?
I know the price is a bit high, but it’s a professional-quality knife. In addition, you will get lifetime support from Shun. This is a solid investment.
Do You Need to Clean the Knife Immediately after Use?
Very hard and durable metals go into the construction of this knife. You can return it to its original shine with a single wipe. However, clean it thoroughly after using it for the best results. Dried food stuck on the knife can be harder to clean off.
Final Words on the Shun Premier Knife
The Shun Premier Chef’s Knife, 6-Inch is one of the best Japanese knives you can have in your kitchen. The durable materials, solid construction, and the support you get from Shun make this a product you can count on now and in the future.
