The HG VG10 Tsuchime Damascus is a great starter knife with more robust cutting feel thanks to the extra thickness this blade offers in the middle of the blade (not the spine). It offers both textured and Damascus finish in one, making it a worthy investment/gift for any cook. A paring knife is often used for many in-hand tasks such as coring, peeling, and trimming; think apples, artichokes, various fruits and garlic etc. It is an extremely versatile tool that when you get a really good one, you start to wonder how you managed to cook all these years without it. Brand: Hitohira ひとひら Producing Area: Seki-Gifu/ Japan Profile: Paring Size: 85mm Steel Type: Stainless Steel Steel: VG-10, Stainless Damascus Clad Handle: Imitation Mahogany Western Total Length: 196mm Edge Length: 84mm Handle to Tip Length: 90mm Blade Height: 22mm Thickness: 1.7mm Handle Length: 105mm Weight: 73g Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous