The F. Dick Red Spirit 10 in. Scimitar or "Hektor" is not your average scimitar as it is made of a high carbon stainless steel that should have better edge retention than similar scimitars on the market. Scimitars are often used by butchers who like soft steel than can be quickly honed with a rod. This "Hektor" scimitar by Friedrich Dick should not require such frequent honing due to the harder steel, making this a reliable blade.