The Miyabi Birchwood 7" Santoku Knife is a top-of-the-line chef's knife that has gained a reputation in the world of kitchen knives. It is meticulously crafted by hand in Seki, Japan, ensuring impeccable quality. The blade boasts a stunning Damascus shell with a high-quality SG2 core that has been ice hardened to a perfect 63 HRC. This results in exceptional edge retention and durability, making it the centerpiece of any kitchen. The Birchwood line from Miyabi is easily recognizable by its distinctive Damascus blades with SG2 cores and raw birchwood handles. However, it's important to note that the raw wood handles can absorb liquids, potentially causing damage to the knife. To prevent this, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the knife after each cleaning. The Miyabi brand, a part of Zwilling J.A. Henckels, represents a collection of knives that are expertly crafted in Seki, Japan, combining Japanese materials with German design. Each knife is meticulously finished by hand, ensuring razor-sharp precision and serving as a true work of art.