Shun Classic knives are produced in Seki City, Japan--the center of samurai sword manufacture for more than seven centuries--so it's no surprise that this 8-inch chef's knife performs (and looks) like a timeless slicer. The high-carbon VG-10 stainless-steel blade is the ideal length for everyday kitchen tasks, such as slicing tomatoes or onions, cleaving chicken, or chopping herbs. And due to the 16 thin layers of stainless alloy that coat each side of the blade, the knife offers a unique appearance as well, tendering the look and feel of multilayered Damascus steel without the potential for rust. The VG-10 "super steel" is actually composed of a carbon, chromium, cobalt, manganese, molybdenum, silicon, and vanadium combination. This blade amalgamation holds its sharp edge for years, reducing maintenance requirements, and its sophisticated profile resists sticking. Chefs will appreciate the black laminated PakkaWood handle, which is designed for comfort even during heavy use. The knife also includes a stainless-steel end cap and a traditional offset bolster. This chef's knife is dishwasher-safe and carries a lifetime warranty.