Shun Premier 7" Santoku Knife

I bought this back around Christmas 2011 when it was on an Amazon holiday deal for $100. If you find it for that price nowadays, I'd pretty much try to yell through the computer screen at you to get it. :D At the current prices of ~$150 (depending on seller), I'd still say it's a good but not great value. Cost aside, it is a very nice knife. Aesthetically, the blade is simply exceptional. The polished hammered top half combined with the layered bottom half are beautiful. The pakkawood handle is also attractive, but I admit to not being as enamored with it as I was years ago. For some, the lighter weight may not be a preference, but it can be a real bonus when using this for a while because I think it helps prevent my arm and wrist from getting as tired as when I'm using my heavier knives. The build quality is outstanding. Of the four Shun knives that I've purchased, I've had one (a more expensive Reserve model) with an issue on the handle. Both of the Premier models that I bought (this and a paring knife) are perfectly made. The handle lines up just right with the blade, and there are no imperfections anywhere that I've noticed over years of use. Sharpness may go without saying, but I'll still say it :) - yep, it's sharp. It's not like cutting with this was a whole new experience for me. My less expensive Anolon knives are also pretty sharp - but I like using this knife more. Shun for me is more than just the functional value - it's the aesthetic value. It works great and looks great, and I like using it. There's something to be said for treating yourself or someone else now and again with a product that is just a cut above (sorry...no pun intended), and this is a knife that will stand out in most people's kitchen collection and make them feel good. I've attached some photos of this that hopefully convey some of the aesthetics. I think it's far more beautiful than the stock image here on Amazon conveys. Two big thumbs up from me for this knife.

Having read a couple of less than stellar reviews on Shun knives, I am writing to say that I do not understand any of those comments. I am a professional in the restaurant business and I have used my Classic 10 inch chef and 8 inch Premier Shun knives for a couple of years. Being so impressed with both knives, I just recently bought this 7 inch Santoku and used it for the past two nights in the restaurant for prep. A few of my colleagues on the line in the restaurant also use Shun knives. I also own four Global and several Henckels from when I began in the business.They are all fine products and their edges will all break or chip if abused. All knives dull with use and need to be re-edged. But like any finely built tool, each knife has its own personality based on design, weight, and quality of steel.I, along with other professionals I regularly talk with, consider Shun to be the current "gold standard" in cutlery. I truly enjoy using all of the brands I that I own and have mentioned, but Shun knives do stand out - IMO. Why? (1) Insane sharpness and retention of original manufacture's edge angle. BTW -It is worth it to purchase the Shun honing steel as it guides the knife with the correct angle. Used properly a Shun knife when dull is better than other standard kitchen knives right back from the sharpener. (2) Heft and hand-feel. Your hands move when chopping and balanced movement is key to precise work as well as safety. I do not own another knife that feels as good in my hands as do my Shun knives. Add to this the well-researched shape of their handle and my hand does not tire nearly as quickly using a Shun. (3) Beauty. Why not own a functional tool that surpasses the day to day demands of a professional kitchen AND looks like a piece of art? Functional art. Look, there are many great knives out there. Buying (and using) a Shun is a life-time purchase. Assuming you do not abuse it, the Shun knife will last and serve you well for a very long time. Whether a conversation piece with guests as you prep dinner or in a professional kitchen setting these knives impress.

Amazing knife. Cuts everything like butter and looks amazing as well.

This knife is a work of art and sharp sharp sharp. You will love it.

Excelente faca. Leve, precisa e um aço de extrema qualidade.

Tiene una buena estructura para hacer cortes finos y precisos, La calidad del acero y el mango de madera son muy buenos

Love it. Clean cut with all meat even as an amateur cook