Shun
Shun Classic 9 Piece Chef's Choice Block Set
Best premium cutlery set for serious home chefs seeking precision performance.
Experience the artistry of Japanese knife making with the Shun Classic 9 Piece Chef's Choice Block Set. These knives feature a razor-sharp cutting edge crafted from VG-MAX steel, protected by 34 layers of stainless steel on each side for a beautiful Damascus finish. The blades are honed to a 16° angle for precise slicing and hardened to 61 Rockwell for exceptional durability. Ergonomic D-shaped PakkaWood handles ensure comfort during use, while the included 22-slot bamboo block keeps your collection organized and accessible.
$863.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
328
/ 1899
#328 in Kitchen Utensil Sets
Price vs Category Average
+730%
Above average
Core Steel
VG-MAX
/ VG-MAX
Who it's for
- Home cooks prioritizing effortless precision and long-lasting sharpness
- Culinary enthusiasts needing a complete, versatile knife collection
- Design-conscious chefs who value ergonomic comfort and aesthetic appeal
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking a more affordable kitchen starter set
- Busy cooks preferring low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe kitchen tools
- Users who need heavy-duty blades for cutting bones or frozen foods
Performance breakdown
Edge Retention
VG-MAX steel holds a razor-sharp edge through extensive culinary prep work.
Ergonomic Comfort
D-shaped PakkaWood handles provide a secure, fatigue-reducing grip for precision tasks.
Blade Geometry
The 16-degree angle delivers effortless, clean slices with minimal resistance.
Aesthetic Appeal
Damascus-clad finish offers a stunning visual centerpiece for any modern kitchen.
Storage Versatility
The 22-slot bamboo block provides ample room for future collection growth.
Maintenance Requirements
High-performance steel demands careful hand-washing and regular honing to stay sharp.
Key Specs
Core Steel
VG-MAX
Cladding
34 layers of stainless steel per side
Blade Hardness
61 Rockwell
Sharpening Angle
16° per side
Handle Material
PakkaWood
Block Material
Bamboo
Block Slots
22
Features
- Razor-sharp cutting edge inspired by samurai sword making
- Beautiful Damascus-clad blades for aesthetic appeal
- Narrower, lighter blades reduce fatigue during use
- Ergonomic D-shaped handles for a comfortable grip
- Durable and moisture-resistant PakkaWood handles
- Includes a comprehensive set of essential kitchen knives
- Comes with a combination honing steel to maintain edges
- Organized storage in a 22-slot bamboo block
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Shun Classic 9 Piece Chef's Choice Block Set for its exceptional quality and superior performance. Reviewers frequently highlight the remarkable sharpness of each blade, making food preparation effortless and precise. The exquisite craftsmanship and balanced feel of the knives also receive high praise, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable cooking experience. Many consider this set a significant investment that truly elevates their culinary endeavors, appreciating the lasting durability and refined design.
Know before you buy
Shun Classic knives are crafted with a 16-degree edge angle, which is significantly sharper than the 20- to 25-degree angles found on most Western knives. They also use harder VG-MAX steel, allowing for a thinner, lighter blade that excels at precise, clean cuts.
The D-shaped handle is specifically designed to fit comfortably in the palm of a right-handed user. While left-handed users can still use the knives, they may find the ergonomic contouring less natural compared to a symmetrical handle.
A 61 Rockwell hardness indicates that the steel is exceptionally hard, which allows the blade to hold a razor-sharp edge for a much longer period than softer steel knives. However, this hardness also makes the blade more brittle, so it should be used on wood or plastic cutting boards rather than glass or stone.
To maintain the edge, use the included honing steel regularly to realign the blade. For cleaning, always hand wash and dry the knives immediately to prevent moisture from affecting the PakkaWood handles or the steel.
Yes, the block is designed with 22 slots, providing plenty of room to expand your collection beyond the pieces included in this set. The bamboo construction is also a sustainable, moisture-resistant choice for kitchen storage.
No, these knives should never be placed in the dishwasher. The high heat, harsh detergents, and abrasive environment of a dishwasher can damage the sharp edge and cause the PakkaWood handles to crack or warp.
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$864