Yoshihiro High Speed Steel Santoku Multipurpose Chefs Knife (Black Pakkawood Handle) (7'' (180mm) & No Saya) Our Yoshihiro High Speed Steel series beautifully brings together incredible sharpness, long lasting edge retention, stain resistance, and an ease of sharpening that outclasses many other knives currently on the market. The outstanding performance of the knife is the result of combining state-of-the-art metallurgy with the bountiful knowledge and skill of the master craftsmen. High Speed Steel is currently considered to be the most advanced stainless steel on the market for high-end kitchen knives. A particular significance is the high amount of Cobalt (8%) in the steel alloy which give it its high wear-resistance and durability. It makes it perfect for use in its original purpose of industrial machinery, but also excellent in high-end kitchen knives which require long lasting edge retention. The most versatile and one of the most popular knives that a cook can have today is a Japanese all-purpose chefs knife known as a Santoku knife. Santoku is Japanese for three virtues referring to the shape of the blade which comprises aspects of the traditional vegetable knife , Usuba, and Gyuto in one knife making it a favorite among chefs and cooks everywhere. This knife is complimented with a premium Western Style Handle that extends to the full tang of the knife and ergonomically welds to the hand for seamless use. An optional protective wooden sheath called a Saya can be purchased together, 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.