Yoshihiro Mirror Polished High Performance SLD Damascus Steel Kiritsuke Multipurpose Knife (9.5'' (240mm), Ebony Handle & Silver Ring Ironwood Bolster) High Performance SLD is among the new generation of steels being engineered in Japan that endeavor to surpass the capabilities of existing metals. Its main features is that it is highly wear resistant with a hardness level that rivals carbon steel with a high level of stain resistance. This combination of cutting-edge metallurgy results in a knife with excellent sharpness, long edge retention, and stainless durability. The Kiritsuke is one of the most versatile and essential of all knives a cook can have. The blade of the Kiritsuke is wider and straighter than a standard chef knife while having a curved tip. The wideness of the knife with its straight end makes it suited for chopping vegetables while the long curved tip makes it suitable for cutting thin slices in meat or fish. Preparing delicious meals starts with taking wholesome ingredients and using the best tools such as a high quality chefs knife to make every meal into something special. The Kiritsuke is suited for many tasks such as for dicing, slicing, and chopping fresh produce from a farmers market to carving a roast chicken straight from the oven. Even the simplest tasks are elevated with a handcrafted knife that is as beautiful as it is functional. Proudly made in Japan and not mass produced.This knife is complimented with a traditional Japanese Wa-style handcrafted Octagonal Handle that is lightweight and ergonomically welds to the hand for seamless use.A protective wooden sheath called a Saya is included, which protects the knife and adds to its appearance when not in use. Every knife from Yoshihiro is handcrafted by master artisans creating a unique one-of-a-kind work of art. Traditional Japanese knife making values a sharp edge, which requires attention and care. Sharpening and honing should be done with only water whetstones. Hand wash and dry only, and do so immediately if working with acidic ingredients. Do not use on objects such as bones, nutshells, and frozen foods.