Shun
Shun Dual Core 6.5" Nakiri Knife
Best precision tool for home cooks focused on vegetable preparation.
Elevate your kitchen tasks with the Shun Dual Core 6.5" Nakiri Knife, expertly crafted in Japan. Its unique Dual Core blade, formed from 71 alternating layers of VG10 and VG2 steel, offers exceptional sharpness and durability. The etched surface and single-bevel edge minimize food drag for effortless chopping and dicing. Designed for balance and agility without a tip, this NSF Certified knife is ideal for all your vegetable preparation needs and includes a protective wooden saya.
$349.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
68
/ 5055
#68 in Kitchen Knives
Price vs Category Average
+162%
Above average
Blade Length
6.5
/ inches
Who it's for
- Home cooks demanding long-lasting, razor-sharp edge retention
- Design-conscious chefs seeking a visually stunning kitchen centerpiece
- Vegetable enthusiasts needing efficient, high-volume chopping performance
Who should skip it
- Casual users unwilling to perform specialized maintenance and sharpening
- Budget-focused shoppers looking for standard, affordable cutlery
- Culinary generalists requiring a versatile knife for rocking and slicing
Performance breakdown
Edge Retention
Dual core steel construction ensures a razor-sharp edge for extended periods.
Vegetable Prep Efficiency
The flat profile and etched surface glide through produce with ease.
Ergonomic Balance
Lightweight design provides exceptional control during repetitive chopping tasks.
Build Craftsmanship
Hand-forged Japanese quality delivers a premium, professional-grade feel.
Maintenance Requirements
Requires careful hand washing and regular honing to maintain performance.
Storage Utility
Included wooden saya offers elegant protection for the delicate blade edge.
Key Specs
Blade Length
6.5 inches
Blade Construction
71 alternating micro layers of VG10 & VG2 steel
Edge Type
Straight Edge
Tang Type
Full Tang
Blade Finish
Damascus Pattern
Bolster Type
Full Bolster
Handle Material
Wood
Country of Origin
Japan
Features
- Superior sharpness with Dual Core steel
- Reduced food drag from etched blade
- Balanced and strong forged bolster
- Ultra-sharp 16° single-bevel edge
- Authentic Japanese hand-forged quality
- Protective wooden saya included
- Perfect for vegetable preparation
- Lightweight and agile design
What customers say
This Shun Nakiri earns high praise for its exceptional performance and stunning design. Users consistently highlight the phenomenal out-of-the-box sharpness and superior edge retention, noting how effortlessly it handles dense vegetables, making prep work faster. The knife's balance and comfortable handle design also reduce fatigue during extended use. Many consider the dual-core Damascus pattern a work of art that elevates the kitchen. While the premium price is noted, most agree the precision and durability justify the investment. A few users mention the necessary careful maintenance required for high-end steel, viewing it as a trade-off for top-tier results. Overall, it is a highly coveted tool delivering precision and beauty.
Know before you buy
A Nakiri is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife designed specifically for chopping, dicing, and slicing produce. Its flat profile and blunt tip make it exceptionally efficient for push-cutting through vegetables on a cutting board.
The 16-degree single-bevel edge is designed to minimize food drag and provide a cleaner, more precise cut. Because it is sharpened on only one side, it offers superior performance for thin, uniform slices, though it may require a slight adjustment in technique if you are accustomed to double-bevel blades.
No, this knife is not dishwasher safe. To maintain the integrity of the high-carbon steel and the wooden handle, you should hand wash it with mild soap and dry it immediately after use.
The blade features 71 alternating layers of VG10 and VG2 steel, which creates a highly durable edge that retains its sharpness longer than standard stainless steel. This construction provides the perfect balance between hardness for edge retention and flexibility to prevent chipping.
Yes, it includes a protective wooden saya. This sheath is essential for protecting the ultra-sharp edge when the knife is stored in a drawer or transported.
Because of its high-performance steel and specific edge angle, we recommend using a whetstone for sharpening to maintain the 16-degree bevel. Avoid using pull-through sharpeners, as they can damage the delicate edge geometry.
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