My Favorite Japanese Paring Knife is on Rare Sale at Amazon

I graduated from culinary school with many things: some new skills, a few extra pounds, plenty of scars, and a knife kit that I’ve carried with me ever since. As much as I adore the bulk and weight of the Zwilling knives inside, I’ve begun experimenting with different makes in the hopes of diversifying my collection. I started by testing out chef’s knives, and now I’m rethinking my paring knives.   

I’ve noticed that people tend to focus all of their attention on the former while ignoring the latter, but this is a mistake. A paring knife is one of the most functional and versatile tools in any kitchen. I use mine for everything from peeling garlic to hulling summer strawberries, and now, thanks to my recent acquisition of this 3.5-inch masterpiece by Shun Cutlery, I can do these things more efficiently than ever before. This Japanese knife is the perfect length, has an easy-to-hold grip, and happens to be on rare sale right now at Amazon (but for a limited time only).

Shun Cutlery Kanso 3.5-Inch Paring Knife 

Shun has been handcrafting knives in Seki, Japan for over 115 years. According to the brand, “shun” is the Japanese word used to describe food at the very pinnacle of its flavor. Just like fruit at its ripest or fish at its freshest, Shun knives help cooks pursue perfection in the kitchen. 

The blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel that noticeably holds its edge longer and better than any other knife I’ve used. It runs through the entire length of the contoured wood handle — known in the industry as full-tang — to supply a balanced feel and durable design. Having learned how to slice and dice on knives with handles typically made of plastic, I was initially concerned that the coarse texture of the wood would be off-putting, but this wasn’t the case at all. The hilt is entirely smooth and remarkably comfortable to hold. 

Likewise, Amazon shoppers find this paring knife to be almost entirely without fault, with one customer calling it “very well designed” and “superbly sharp,” and another adding that it “does everything” they need it to do.   

Shun has earned its reputation for excellence time and again, and the Kanso line is no exception. Snag this or any of the brand’s other paring knives (I’ve rounded up a few more below) while they’re all on limited-time sale at Amazon for up to 33% off. 

Shop More Shun Paring Knives at Amazon

Shun Cutlery Classic 3.5-Inch Paring Knife

Shun Cutlery Sora 3.5-Inch Paring Knife 

Shun Cutlery 4-Inch Nimble Paring Knife 

At the time of publishing, the price was $80.