A hand forged hidden tang W2 blade with a clay hamon is at the heart of this mid weight chef knife. A hard RC 63 cutting edge and soft, tough spine, make for the best of both worlds on this super sharp high carbon steel blade. The handle is Arizona desert ironwood with a purple heart collar. The soldered nickel silver guard forms a durable barrier to food entry at the blade/ handle junction. The thin spacer and 1/8 inch pin are matching nickle silver. A pleasure to use and will serve in any kitchen for many years with proper care.