Part of the Four Star series of cutlery, this santoku has a fully forged high-carbon stainless-steel blade. The blade, bolster, and tang are welded of one piece of metal using Henckels's Sinter Metal Component Technology, which distributes the right quantities of metal to each part of the knife. The result is a longer-lasting edge and a more consistent angle on the blade. The blade has also undergone Henckels's Friodur ice-hardening process, which further strengthens it and protects it from discoloration. The black polypropelene handles offer a secure and comfortable grip and are hygienically attached so there are no gaps between the handle and blade for food to become trapped. This santoku should be hand washed and is covered by a lifetime warranty. <I>--Cristina Vaamonde</I>