Wanting to create a line of knives that would revolutionize kitchen cutlery, we drew inspiration from the past: the samurai tradition of ancient Japan. So it is that the same legendary strength and sharpness of the samurai swords are now embodied in Shun Elite. The blade begins with a unique SG2 ‘super steel’ powdered metal that’s hardened to 64-66 Rockwell (compared to the 56-58 Rockwell of most kitchen knives), resulting in an exceedingly sharp and smooth edge. It’s then clad with two layers of SUS410—a softer, stainless steel that provides strength, flexibility and corrosion protection. Elite knives stay sharp several times longer than comparable stainless cutlery. Handcrafted in Seki City, Japan, the Elite’s beautiful design follows the artful aesthetics of samurai swords, down to the smallest detail. Hand wash. Lifetime warranty.

18-piece knife block set includes: 3½" paring, 4½" wide cook’s, 6½" santoku, 8" chef’s, 10" chef’s/ 9" bread, 9½" yanagiba-style slicer, 6" boning, 6" utility, six steak knives, shears, sharpening steel and bamboo block.

Click here to view a Shun cutlery video featuring TV host and author Alton Brown.