* This Santoku knife from the Shun Classic collection performs the three essential cutting tasks a Santoku is named for: slicing, dicing, and mincing. * The high performance Damascus-clad blade is made from a VG-MAX steel core with 34 layers of steel on each side. The distinctive wavy pattern is formed as the blade is ground and bead-blasted from the spine to the razor-sharp edge, hand-sharpened to a 16-degree cutting angle. * VG-MAX stainless steel is proprietary to Shun. It includes a higher percentage of carbon for greater strength and durability. This alloy combines multiple other metals, including chromium, cobalt, vanadium, molybdenum and tungsten, to further improve wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and strength. Shun Classic knife blades are stronger, more durable, and stay sharper longer. * The ebony PakkaWood handle is made from genuine hardwood and resin. The addition of resin makes the wood moisture-resistant, strong, and durable. The D-shape of the handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand. * 5.5-inch Damascus-clad VG-MAX steel blade for strength and durability * Hand-sharpened 16-degree cutting angle for a razor-sharp edge * Ebony PakkaWood handle, with D-shape for comfortable fit * Full-tang construction offers balance and strength * Hand wash and dry immediately after use * Made in Japan