Analysis by Valery Grin · · updated June 4, 2026
Kai Shun Classic DM-0702 – 18 cm Japanese Santoku in VG-MAX Damascus Steel
The santoku that makes slicing and chopping for the kamado a pleasure.
From€178
Price verified on Amazon on July 16, 2026 · may change
Usually payable in 4 instalments of ~€45 with Cofidis “Paga en 4” at Amazon checkout. Subject to Cofidis eligibility and terms · variable APR.
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18 cm blade with a VG-MAX core and 32 Damascus layers per side, black pakkawood handle. It's the most recommended kitchen knife to start with Japanese steel: it cuts veg, meat and fish with a cleanness no European knife matches.
The Shun Classic DM-0702 is, rightly, the most recommended Japanese santoku for getting serious about fine cutting. A VG-MAX core (Kai's evolution of VG-10) hardened to around 61 HRC and wrapped in 32 Damascus layers per side: the pattern isn't just pretty, it reduces drag through the food. For the kamado cook it's the prep knife: it trims a loin, peels the membrane off a rack, slices peppers for the grill and fillets fish with a keen edge and a flatter profile than a chef's knife. Be honest about it: Japanese steel is harder and therefore more brittle. Not for bones, frozen food or the dishwasher, and it likes a frequent touch-up on a ceramic rod. Hand-wash and dry it at once. Treated well, it's a knife for decades.
Specifications
- Type: Santoku (all-purpose: veg, meat, fish)
- Steel: VG-MAX core + 32 Damascus layers per side
- Hardness: ~61 HRC (±1)
- Blade: 18 cm, flat profile, granton hollow-edge
- Handle: Black pakkawood, full tang, made in Japan
- Care: Hand-wash only, dry immediately, never dishwasher
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Amazon price history
The current price (€178) is the lowest we have recorded for this product.
- Lowest
- €178
- Highest
- €183
- Current
- €178
mikamado price tracking since Jun 9 · source: Amazon.es
Buy on Amazon
€178
Price verified on Amazon on July 16, 2026 · may change
Usually payable in 4 instalments of ~€45 with Cofidis “Paga en 4” at Amazon checkout. Subject to Cofidis eligibility and terms · variable APR.
Buy on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, mikamado.es earns from qualifying purchases. At no extra cost to you.
Essentials to get started
As an Amazon Associate, mikamado.es earns from qualifying purchases. At no extra cost to you.
FAQ
Is it good for kamado meat and fish, or only veg?
It's good for all three. The santoku is all-purpose: it slices grilled meat, fillets fish and chops veg. For boning big cuts or cutting through bone, use another knife.
Can I put it in the dishwasher?
No. Harsh detergent and knocks against other items damage the edge and handle. Hand-wash in warm water and dry it right away.
Does the Damascus steel need special upkeep?
The Damascus here is structural and cosmetic: the edge comes from the VG-MAX core. Touch it up often on a ceramic rod and sharpen on a whetstone once or twice a year.