The construction of this knife is a work of art.The dark Ash handle is so unique with its whorls and grain. The layered flower Damascus pattern on the blade shows true craftsmanship. The steel is super sharp and stays sharp for a long time. It is sharpened in the true artisinal Hombazuke fashion. The rocking shape is new to me and I love it. It allows for quick and accurate slicing,dicing, and mincing. It really upped my cutting game.