Louis-Camille Maillard was a French chemist who discovered the chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars. Now this may not sound all that interesting but it is this chemical reaction that gives us the browning and delicious taste of seared steaks, fried food, cookies, bread and more. Now you're interested, right?! Named after Maillard, the Maillard Reaction is responsible for many colors and flavors that we find when browning or searing food. The Maillard Reaction is also responsible for the malted barley found in malt whiskey and beer. Our 10" Damascus steel slicing and carving knife has been named after Maillard and his contribution to science and delicious food. We chose to go with a 10" blade as many of the other slicing and carving knives on the market are unwieldy and difficult to use because they are so long. Made from 256 layers of 1095 and 15n20 steels to make our Damascus metal and hand sharpened to a razors edge, this knife will make short work of that succulent smoked brisket or Thanksgiving turkey. At 2mm thin and a Rockwell Hardness just under 60, the blade is thin and has just enough flex for all slicing duties. This gorgeous knife will be a show stopper at your next dinner party or backyard barbecue. Maillard 10" Damascus Steel Slicing and Carving Knife Specifications Overall Length: 15” Handle Length: 5” Blade Length: 10” Blade Height: 1.5" Blade thickness: 0.1" (2.5mm) Blade Material: Damascus Steel (1095 and 15n20) Rockwell Hardness: HRC 56-59 Full Tang Grind: Flat Handle Material: Dark Walnut Includes a wood presentation box Please note: Each knife is handmade from natural materials. There will be some variation in color, metal pattern and overall look. The knife you receive will have the same attention to quality and detail as the one pictured but may differ slightly in appearance. Care Instructions 1095 steel is a high-carbon steel and will rust if not dried and oiled after use. Do not put in dishwasher. Hand wash only with soap and hot water. Dry completely before oiling.