The "ripple" Damascus finish on these five knives is achieved by forging 34 layers of steel on each side. Flexible, stick-resistant blades are stamped, hand-ground to an exceptional 16-degree angle, then hand-polished. This eight-piece set, a Crate and Barrel exclusive, includes 4" paring, 9" slicer, 9" bread, 8" chef's and 6" tomato knives as well as a sharpening steel and shears in an 11-slot knife block.Each exquisite Shun knife is carefully crafted in a 100-step process inspired by ancient sword smiths. The amazing razor-sharp blades are created in Seki City, Japan's 700-year-old center for samurai swords. Need help choosing? Here's your essential guide to choosing the best knifeShun sharpening services available; view program details (PDF format).