Shun Classic Blonde Santoku, 7 in.

The all-purpose Japanese knife, in a lighter shade. Like a chef's knife, a santoku handles just about every cutting job in the kitchen, and because it runs a little shorter it is easy to maneuver even in a small one; this one has just enough belly to rock through herbs. The VG-MAX core takes a razor-sharp 16 degree edge each side and holds it, 34 layers of stainless Damascus cladding on each side support the core and help food release, and the D-shaped blonde Pakkawood handle fits the hand like a glove, right or left. Handcrafted in Japan.

• 7 in. (178 mm) blade; 12.5 in. overall; 6.3 oz
• VG-MAX steel core, 16 degree edge each side; 68 layers of stainless Damascus cladding
• D-shaped blonde Pakkawood handle, 5 in.; suits right- and left-handed cooks
• Full composite tang for light weight and balance
• Handcrafted in Japan; limited lifetime warranty
• Hand wash with warm water and mild soap; never in the dishwasher