Meridian Elite knife collection by Messermeister defines tradition with the triple-rivet, full-exposed tang series. These knives are one piece, hot-drop hammer forged from a single billet of the finest German 1.4116 stainless steel alloy and outfitted with the most durable industrial strength handle in the world. The steel is heat treated and cooled to achieve a Rockwell of 57-58, and the three-step, 15° Elite edge is hand stropped on a cloth wheel, creating the sharpest possible cutting surface on an edged tool. Meridian Elite knives are handcrafted and polished one at a time using the same techniques that have been the hallmark of fine Solingen-made cutlery for hundreds of years. Meridian Elite knives are one of the best original forged, triple-rivet knives made in Solingen, Germany.