Kai Shun Classic Kiritsuke Knife 20 cm Damascene Steel

KAI Shun Classic Kiritsuke DM-0771 – Japanese Precision for Professional Kitchens

The KAI Shun Classic Kiritsuke (art. DM-0771) is a 20 cm Japanese professional chef's knife that unites the versatility of the Western chef's knife with the precision of the traditional kiritsuke. VG-MAX steel blade with 32 layers of damascened steel on each side, symmetric 16° sharpening, hardness 61 (±1) HRC and D-shaped black Pakka wood handle: a hand-forged cutting tool from Seki, Japan, for professional chefs, Michelin-starred restaurants and top-tier ho.re.ca. establishments.

VG-MAX Damascened Blade: Superior Sharpness and Exceptional Durability

The high-carbon VG-MAX steel core is wrapped in 32 layers of damascened steel on each side, for a total of 64 visible layers. This construction guarantees an extremely sharp edge, superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional stainless steels and longevity even under the wear of the most intensive preparations. The symmetric 16° sharpening – sharper than Western chef's knives, typically at 20-25° – allows clean, precise cuts on fish, meat and vegetables, reducing the pressure needed on the product.

Kiritsuke Profile: Versatility and Push-Cut Technique

The angled tip and straight spine characteristic of the kiritsuke profile allow ultra-thin slicing, push-cut techniques and millimetre-precision work – sashimi, carpaccio, julienne, brunoise – that distinguish Japanese, fusion and contemporary cuisine. Compared to a classic gyuto, the kiritsuke offers more controlled contact on the cutting board, ideal for preparations requiring thickness uniformity.

D-Shape Pakka Wood Handle: Comfort During Extended Sessions

The black Pakka wood composite handle, 12.5 cm long, is moisture-resistant and withstands the rigours of professional service. The D-shaped profile ensures secure grip and control even during long working sessions, with optimal balance between blade and handle – total weight 214 g – that reduces operator fatigue.

KAI Corporation: Artisanal Mastery Since 1908

KAI Corporation, founded in 1908 in Seki – the world capital of Japanese cutlery – produces each knife in the Shun Classic line through artisanal work that combines forging techniques passed down through generations with cutting-edge metallurgy. The kiritsuke was historically reserved for the head chef (itamae) in the kitchen: carrying it in the dining area or on mise en place is already a sign of professional distinction.

Ideal For

• Professional chefs, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels and top-tier ho.re.ca. catering
• Precision preparations: sashimi, carpaccio, julienne, brunoise, chiffonade
• Japanese, fusion and contemporary cuisine
• Fine cooking enthusiasts seeking professional kitchen quality

Technical Specifications

• Type: Kiritsuke
• Series: Shun Classic
• Article no.: DM-0771
• Blade length: 20 cm
• Sharpening: Symmetric, 16°
• Steel: VG-MAX, 32 damascened layers on each side
• Hardness: 61 (±1) HRC
• Handle length: 12.5 cm
• Handle material: Pakka wood, black, D-shape
• Weight: 214 g
• Production: Hand-forged (Seki, Japan)

Recommended maintenance: hand washing, immediate drying after use, periodic sharpening with fine-grained Japanese stone to preserve the 16° edge. Avoid dishwashers and glass or ceramic cutting surfaces.