Shun
Shun Classic Blonde 9″ Bread Knife
Best serrated knife for home bakers seeking precision and elegant design.
Effortlessly slice through any bread with the Shun Classic Blonde 9" Bread Knife. Its wide, undulating serrations glide through crusty loaves without tearing the tender interior, making it perfect for everything from artisan breads to soft pastries. Crafted with a proprietary VG-MAX cutting core and clad in 34 layers of Damascus stainless steel on each side, this knife ensures exceptional sharpness and durability. The D-shaped blonde Pakkawood handle offers a comfortable grip for both left and right-handed users, providing a perfect balance and a beautiful aesthetic. Handcrafted in Japan, this bread knife is an essential tool for any kitchen.
$189.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
68
/ 5007
#68 in Kitchen Knives
Price vs Category Average
+42%
Above average
Blade Length
9
/ inches
Who it's for
- Home bakers needing clean slices for delicate loaves
- Culinary enthusiasts valuing premium materials and aesthetic design
- Cooks seeking a comfortable, balanced grip for extended use
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for an entry-level kitchen tool
- Home cooks lacking access to professional knife sharpening services
- Left-handed users requiring an ambidextrous or neutral handle shape
Performance breakdown
Slicing Precision
Undulating serrations glide through crusty loaves without crushing the delicate crumb.
Edge Retention
The VG-MAX core maintains a razor-sharp edge through extensive daily use.
Ergonomic Comfort
The D-shaped Pakkawood handle provides a secure, natural grip for control.
Build Quality
Damascus cladding and full-tang construction ensure long-term structural integrity.
Balance and Weight
Well-distributed weight makes long slicing sessions feel effortless and stable.
Maintenance Requirements
Hand-washing is mandatory to protect the high-performance steel and wood handle.
Key Specs
Blade Length
9 inches
Handle Material
Composite
Dishwasher Safe
No
Edge Type
Serrated Edge
Tang Type
Full Tang
Weight
7.1 oz (201 g)
Country of Origin
Japan
Blade Finish
Damascus Pattern
Features
- Undulating serrations for clean slicing.
- VG-MAX cutting core for sharpness.
- Damascus cladding for durability.
- Comfortable D-shaped Pakkawood handle.
- Balanced for precise control.
- Handcrafted in Japan.
- Ideal for all bread types.
- Part of the Classic Blonde collection.
What customers say
Customers highly value this premium bread knife for its exceptional sharpness and superior quality. Reviewers consistently praise its ability to slice effortlessly through tough crusts without compressing the soft interior. The knife’s aesthetic appeal is also a major highlight; the elegant Damascus cladding and the light, comfortable PakkaWood handle are frequently admired. While the initial cost is high, users agree that the flawless cutting performance, excellent edge retention, and stunning craftsmanship fully justify the investment. Many consider this tool a cherished, long-lasting kitchen essential that transforms bread slicing into a pleasurable task.
Know before you buy
This knife features wide, undulating serrations designed to glide through crusty exteriors without tearing the soft interior of the loaf. This design minimizes crumbling and ensures a clean cut for both artisan crusts and delicate pastries.
Yes, the D-shaped handle is designed to provide a secure, ergonomic grip for both left and right-handed users. It offers excellent balance and control, regardless of your dominant hand.
No, this knife is not dishwasher safe. To maintain the integrity of the high-carbon steel edge and the Pakkawood handle, you should always hand wash and dry it immediately after use.
The VG-MAX core is a proprietary high-carbon stainless steel that provides superior edge retention and sharpness. It allows the blade to stay sharper for longer compared to standard stainless steel knives.
The 9-inch length is the industry standard for bread knives, providing enough reach to slice through large, wide loaves in a single motion. While it is a substantial tool, it is balanced at 7.1 ounces to ensure it remains easy to maneuver.
Because of the high-quality VG-MAX steel, this knife will hold its edge for a long time. When it eventually needs sharpening, it is best to use a professional service or a specialized serrated sharpener, as standard honing rods are not effective on this blade geometry.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.