At 10.5" this honing rod polishes your knives smooth. It features a medium surface of approximately 2000 grit. The black ceramic is a new ceramic that is much durable than traditional white ceramic. The surface will realign edges quickly and work better on Japanese cutlery which tend to be harder. These rods are meant to hone a knives edge. Use it regularly at home to maintain a fine edge. Does not replace sharpening.