The blade of this knife has a curved edge to give a rocking motion during use. In addition, the handle is angled to the edge to keep the hand above the working surface. This is our favorite knife for mincing and dicing small items, such as garlic, parsley, shallots and similar items. The blade length is 4½˝, and the overall length is 9½˝ It comes well sharpened with instructions for maintaining a razor edge.