Two years ago I purchased a Shun professional knife set on Ebay. After reading articles from several well known chefs and seeing what Alton Brown (My own patron Saint of Chefs).

Here is the standard information given in Shun company information:

The forged steel blade is VG-10 clad with 16 layers of SUS410 high-carbon stainless steel on each side to produce a rust-free Damascus-look blade. The incredibly sharp edge not only holds longer with the VG-10, but is also easier to maintain. Not only beautiful, the Damascus design also reduces food's ability to stick to the blade.


The Kershaw Shun Classic "D" shape Pakka wood (resin impregnated hardwood) handle along with the offset stainless steel bolster provide both ergonomic function and beauty.



We purchased the set below and have since added an 11 inch Slicer/Carver, a boning knife, and a bird's beak paring knife.


Kershaw Shun Classic 7 Piece Knife Block Set, with knives:

* 3.5" Paring
* 6" Utility
* 8" Chef's
* 9" Bread
* 9" Steel,
* Kitchen Shears
* 10 Slot Bamboo Block





I have used these knives a great deal for two years, and have never had to look into professional sharpening. I always use the honing steel prior to use, and I never put them in the dishwasher even though they are rated as safe for it. The price for a good blade is well worth it as I have noticed most Wal-Mart knife sets are serrated blades that grow useless after serrations are gone. I only use these knives (or any knives for that matter) on plastic cutting boards, wood, or wood composite boards.

Steve