The Shun Kanso 3.5” Paring Knife embodies the essential in more ways than one. A paring knife is something a kitchen cannot thrive without. You can do almost anything with it, given enough time, and its size allows you complete control over what and how you cut. But the Kanso Paring Knife takes the concept of utilizing the fundamentals a step further. “Kanso” means “simplicity,” but simplicity that is attained by eliminating what is not essential. The Kanso series is therefore everything you need in a knife, perfected as only Shun can, and nothing more. Handcrafted in Japan, you’re getting a high-carbon stainless steel that holds that razor-sharp edge for longer, adorned with a heritage finish. You’re getting traditional, durable tagayasan wood scales, known for their iron-like hardness legacy of being the handles of samurai swords. You’re getting an exceptionally lightweight and simplistic knife, that doesn’t need bells and whistles to show its worth. The Shun Kanso 3.5” Paring Knife is perfect companion to any minimalist or traditionalist, who wishes quality knives weren’t a thing of the past. They aren’t a thing of the past anymore. Take great care of your Shun knife, and it will take great care of you! Use a Combination Whetstone , Leveling Stone , and Knife Care Kit to keep your Shun knives in perfect condition.