The Nakiri Vegetable Knife resembles a narrow cleaver and is designed specifically for the slicing and chopping of vegetables. It's blade is an ample 6-1/2 inches, a perfect length without beiAbout Shun ClassicCharacterized by distinctive Damascus look pattern created by cladding 32 layers of SUS410 high carbon stainless steel over a central core of VG-10 steel- a Japanese super steel developed exclusively as a cutting steel, not used in other applications where stainless steel would be found (such as the base material for utensils or car parts etc.) Damascus look is rust-free, easy to maintain and helps to make the blade stick resistant due to the microscopic air pockets created by cladding the 33 layers of metal together. VG-10 ???super steel??? is composed of carbon, chromium, cobalt, manganese, molybdenum, silicon and vanadium. Its Rockwell hardness rating of 61 ensures that it takes and holds its incredibly sharp edge longer. D shaped Pakka Wood handle provides stability and ergonomic comfort while preventing the knife's handle from twisting in the hand during use. NSF certified for restaurant use- very rare for a premium knife line to earn an NSF certification (please verify this yourself with other top quality knife lines) Made in Japan by Kai, a company with a 700 year tradition as premier blade smiths. Available standard in right handed styles or by special order in left h

Made from VG-10 stainless steel, Shun knives are specially constructed to be harder, less brittle, but also more flexible than traditional steel formulations. The VG-10 core is clad with 16 full layers of SUS410 high-carbon stainless steel on each side, for a total of 33 layers. These layers not only protect the VG-10, they create an exquisitely detailed surface reminiscent of Damascus or pattern-forged steel, the kind once used for Samurai swords. As a result, the knives are simply stunning to look at--much like antique Damascus knives but without their tendency to rust.

The 6-1/2-inch blade of this Nakiri knife works great for slicing and dicing, and like many Asian-style knives, its handle is especially suited to smaller users. In contrast to the traditional round profile, however, Shun handles are D-shaped to prevent the knife from twisting in the hand, which provides extra stability and a firm grip. The handle is made from ebony-colored PakkaWood, a fused blend of hardwood veneers imbued with waterproof resin that combines the warmth and traditional look and feel of wood with the strength and durability of plastic. The offset stainless-steel bolster is designed for ergonomic comfort and maximum safety, while a stainless-steel end cap provides the finishing touch. Hand washing the knife is recommended. The Nakiri knife measures approximately 11 by 2 inches and carries a limited lifetime warranty. --Mary Park