The Shun Classic 4" Paring knife is a must-have for every kitchen. A paring knife is versatile and ideal for peeling, coring, trimming, decorating and other detail work. The small blade and handle gives you complete control over the tip and edge of the blade. Generally you use this knife in your hand rather than against a cutting board, though paring knives can be used to chop small foods such as garlic cloves or ginger. The Shun Cutlery Classic knife features a VG-Max "super" steel blade core clad with 34 folded layers per side of stainless Damascus steel. The blade is ground and bead blasted to reveal the beautiful flowing pattern of the Damascus. Each side is sharpened to a 16 degree angle. It features a D-shaped Ebony PakkaWood handle, which is resin-impregnated natural hardwood designed for moisture resistance and longevity. While the D-shaped handle is designed specifically for right-handed use, left-handed users may find it comfortable in hand as well. Shun does sell select left-hand specific handles in the reverse grip.