Translated as "cow blade," the Gyuto is the Japanese equivalent of the Western chef's knife. Its versatile design is suitable for slicing, carving, chopping, and detailed food preparation chores. Literally meaning "in front of the cutting board," Itamae is an extremely prestigious title reserved for highly skilled sushi chefs. Consistent with that elite status, the Spyderco Murray Carter Collection's Itamae Series -- the highest tier in the Collection -- proudly features premium materials and uncompromising craftsmanship. The blades of Itamae Series knives are expertly crafted from laminated steel consisting of an Aogami Super Blue core clad between layers of SUS410 stainless steel. The classic three-layer construction allows the outer layers to protect and support the ultra-hard carbon-steel center layer that forms the blade's edge. Ground exceptionally thin and straight for unparalleled cutting performance, the blades also feature Murray Carter's signature "Carter Elbow" -- a distinctive taper from the spine to the point that reinforces the blade's tip. The elite blades of the Itamae Series are paired with traditional "wa-style"(octagonal) handles made from stunning burl G-10 and highlighted with black G-10 ferrules. Created for those who demand the very best, the Itamae series faithfully captures the spirit of Murray Carter's coveted handmade kitchen knives and sets a new standard in high-performance kitchen cutlery.