Authentically Japanese in design, each knife features 101 layers of steel50 layers clad on each side of the Cryodur-hardened SG2 microcarbide steel coreforming a delicate Damascus pattern with a Rockwell hardness of 63. Each blade in the Birchwood collection is hand-honed using a traditional three-stephonbazukeprocess. Its sharpened twice on whetstones with custom grits, followed by mirror polishing on a leather wheel. The genuinehamonedgea visible line where flexible outer layers and incredibly hard core layer meetis reminiscent of legendary Japanese swords. Ahamonedge is a sign of superior craftsmanship. The D-shape of the natural Masur birch handle creates a comfortable grip and ensures tireless cutting, even with frequent use. Handle features an intricate mosaic center pin, red detailing, and engraved endcap. Hardening done in a state-of-the-art vacuum furnace Rapid-quenching to room temperature in seconds Cryogenic treatment at -321 F to enhance the corrosion resistance Double tempering to improve toughness Traditional 3-step Honbazuke hand-honed edge Fully rounded spine Karelian (Masur) Birch handle Mosaic pin Two red spacers End cap with logo 34381-143