Kanso knives embody a design principle based on Zen philosophy. Meaning "simplicity," the Kanso collection focuses on the essentials that make a knife superior. Featuring razor-sharp blades of high-carbon stainless steel, Kanso knives are constructed with a full tang for balance and precise cutting control. Contoured handles are made of tagayasan wood, the same material used for samurai sword handles. Like all Shun knives, Kanso is sharpened to 16 degrees on each side. Smaller than a standard santoku knife, it is perfect for medium-sized kitchen tasks, including slicing vegetables and mincing herbs. The hollow-ground blade helps release food more easily.

Each exquisite Shun knife is carefully crafted in a 100-step process inspired by ancient sword smiths. The amazing razor-sharp blades are created in Seki City, Japan's 700-year-old center for samurai swords.

Need help choosing? Here's your essential guide to choosing the best knife

Shun sharpening services available; view program details (PDF format).