Shun
Shun Classic 9 inch Bread Knife
Best serrated knife for home bakers slicing crusty artisan loaves.
Effortlessly slice through crusty loaves with the Shun DM0705 Classic 9" Forged Bread Knife. Its serrated edge is expertly designed to cut through tough exteriors without crushing the soft interior, ensuring perfect slices every time. The blade is sharpened to a precise 16° angle for optimal performance and easy food release. Constructed with high-end VG-Max stainless steel, this knife offers exceptional edge retention. The lightweight and well-balanced composite tang, combined with a durable D-shaped Pakkawood handle, provides a comfortable and secure grip. Crafted in Japan, this bread knife represents a commitment to quality and performance.
$151.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
578
/ 5007
#578 in Kitchen Knives
Price vs Category Average
+14%
Above average
Blade Length
9
/ inches
Who it's for
- Home bakers wanting clean, tear-free slices
- Serious cooks investing in long-lasting kitchen tools
- Culinary enthusiasts prioritizing comfort and balance
- Pastry lovers needing delicate, precise cutting
- Quality seekers valuing premium Japanese craftsmanship
- Frequent users requiring ergonomic, fatigue-free handling
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable kitchen gear
- Home cooks lacking specialized sharpening equipment
- Left-handed users seeking ambidextrous handle designs
- Value-focused buyers comparing costs against entry-level knives
- Busy cooks preferring low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe tools
- Left-handed chefs needing natural, comfortable ergonomics
Performance breakdown
Crust Penetration
Aggressive serrations bite into artisan crusts without requiring excessive downward pressure.
Crumb Preservation
Razor-sharp edges slice through soft interiors without tearing or compressing delicate loaves.
Edge Retention
VG-Max steel maintains its bite significantly longer than standard stainless alternatives.
Ergonomic Control
The D-shaped Pakkawood handle provides a secure, natural grip for extended slicing.
Blade Geometry
The curved belly design facilitates a smooth, rocking motion through every slice.
Build Integrity
Japanese craftsmanship and Damascus cladding ensure long-term durability and structural resilience.
Key Specs
Blade Length
9 inches
Blade Material
VG-Max stainless steel
Blade Steel Layers
68 layers
Blade Edge
Serrated
Blade Angle
16°
Handle Material
Ebony Pakkawood
Handle Length
5.1 inches
Tang
Composite
Features
- Serrated edge for clean slicing of bread
- 16° cutting edge for superior performance
- VG-Max stainless steel for excellent edge retention
- Lightweight and balanced composite tang
- Durable and hygienic Pakkawood handle
- Wide, low-frequency serrations for clean slicing
- Undulating serrations provide power for sawing through crusts
- Works equally well on soft breads and pastries
- Beautiful Damascus-clad blade
- D-shaped ebony Pakkawood handle for comfort and control
- Razor-sharp blades offering top performance
- Durable and corrosion resistant
- Curved belly for smooth slicing
- Ultra-sharp serrations for clean cuts
- Preserves the soft interior of bread
- Long blade accommodates large loaves
- Japanese craftsmanship
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Shun Classic 9 inch Bread Knife for its exceptional sharpness and superior cutting performance. Many highlight how effortlessly it glides through various breads, from crusty artisan loaves to soft brioche, without tearing. The knife's balanced design and comfortable handle also receive frequent mentions, contributing to an overall premium feel and ease of use. While it represents a significant investment, users generally agree its outstanding quality and reliability make it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen.
Know before you buy
Yes, the serrated edge is versatile enough to handle soft breads, delicate pastries, and even thick-skinned produce like tomatoes or melons without crushing them.
Because this knife features a serrated edge, it does not require traditional sharpening like a straight-edge blade. If the edge eventually dulls, it is best to have it professionally serviced or use a specialized serrated sharpener.
The D-shaped handle is specifically designed for a right-handed grip to provide maximum control and comfort. Left-handed users may find the handle shape less ergonomic and should consider a symmetrical handle design instead.
To preserve the wood, always hand wash the knife with mild soap and dry it immediately. Avoid soaking it in water or putting it in the dishwasher, as moisture can cause the handle to warp or degrade over time.
VG-Max is a high-performance, proprietary steel that contains extra carbon, chromium, and cobalt. This allows the blade to hold a razor-sharp edge significantly longer than standard stainless steel while remaining highly resistant to corrosion.
A 9-inch blade is standard for bread knives, as it provides the length needed to slice through large loaves in a single motion. Ensure your knife block or magnetic strip has enough clearance to accommodate the total length of the knife, which is approximately 14.1 inches including the handle.
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$152