This is an original unfinished rough ground knife blade blank by Seizo Imai in Seki, Japan circa early 2000s. This blade has been heat treated/hardened. It is made of RS-30, a steel similar to AUS-8 that was also used by Al Mar. It comes with a nickel silver guard and features a hollow ground blade and tapered tang. This blade has been heat treated, and blade can be shaped and buffed according to your taste. Overall length is 7" and the blade is 3.25" long. Guard may need some filing to fit to tang. Last picture shows similar blade as completed by Imai (not included, for example only). During the latter part of his life, Imai focused on creating stunning Loveless style knives, and also sold them as knifemaking kits. This blade and guard combo are the last you will find in this style from this master knifemaker. Seizo Imai was one of Seki, Japan's finest craftsmen and most famous knifemakers of the modern era. His collaboration with Parker spanned nearly two decades. He also made knives for Frost, Browning, Explorer, Compass, Condor, and many others, including his own brands Imax and Seizo Imai. His custom Loveless style knives are works of art. After his passing, several vintage old stock models were found at his warehouse. This is one of these rare finds. It is unmarked since he would engrave his name on the blade after finishing as seen in our other listings of his custom knives.