Received this from my buddies upon graduation from culinary school.  Could not have made a better selection.  The D shaped wooden handle is an authentic Japanese design feature and offers a nice comfortable grip.  SG2 steel is hammered between two layers of softer steels, protecting the inner core, as well as adding to the attractiveness.  The longer blade is perfect for use at home as well as in the restaurant.  I'm certainly the envy of all my coworkers when I pull this out of my knife roll.