What makes this Wusthof sharpening steel "deluxe" is the fact that it has a metal guard rather than just plastic, as well as a metal end with durable ring. This steel features a high quality 10" honing rod, grooved for ease of use. The black composite handle provides a good grip and features a reasonable bolster to help prevent the knife blade from hitting the knuckles. Fit handily into a provided slot in most wooden storage blocks. To ensure that your knives stay beautifully sharp, a sharpening steel should be used regularly. Over time, knives will deteriorate and lose their edge. Honing re-aligns the microscopic teeth in the blade that can't be seen with the naked eye. By regularly honing your knives, you will maximize the time in between sharpening. Wusthof sharpening steels are made from hard chromium plated steel with a hardness of 65 Rockwell.