These are the knives made with a proprietary steel technology that resists corrosion and discoloration better than any other. They are made in Thiers—considered the cradle of French cutlery since the reign of Louis XIV—with an alloy composed of 16% chromium that yields the highest corrosion resistance available for kitchen knives. With a .35% carbon steel composition that provides a Rockwell Hardness Rating of 55 for long-lasting edge retention, its precision-machined, full-tang blade has a 50:50 bevel ratio that provides superior cutting performance and optimal balance without the need for frequent re-sharpening. Walnut scales secure to the blade with a proprietary lock system without the use of rivets