Kasumi knives are hand crafted in Seki, Japan, by the Sumikama family, a27th generation family of knife makers. KasumiDamascus Knivesare made from 32 layers of stainless steel folded around amiddle layer which acts as the cutting edge. The middle cutting layer is made of V-Gold No. 10 high carbon stainless steel, a material specially developed for the sharpest and strongest knives. Kasumi knives are tempered and sharpened to create the "sharpest kitchen knife out of the box" and the special technique for this tempering is a closely guarded secret. The edge on a Kasumi knife is bevelled like a western style knife, however, the bevel is much larger than on a European or American brand. This larger bevel creates a sharper edge that lasts longer. The handle is made from multiple layers of wood impregnated with a resin, a process that takes at least 3 months. The handle is riveted with stainless steel rivets to the full handle tang. Hand made in Seki Japan by multi generation craftsmen.