I,ve always been interested in Demascus steel, I,m not a fan of stainless. I bear hunt on the ground stalking with bow and black powder in close conditions and like good backup options. This knife has a good balance and heft to it. No I would not go after a bear with it but I,ll feel better haveing it along. Did need to fine tune the edge but it has good bevel and that was short work.Also good grade of sheath that is left handed. didn,t see that before I ordered, but that was a plus becouse I am left handed and now do not need to make a new one that fits me. I have lot,s of knives ( least thats what my wife say,s) but this I,m sure will be one of my most used one,s for work also. ( Most of my work is done in the woods or farming )Should have gone to school !