Using this Nella chef knife is a breeze. When you're slicing, especially tough ingredients, start your cut from the heel of the blade. This gives you the most leverage and control over what you're cutting. For everyday use, you can handle all sorts of chopping, slicing, and dicing tasks with ease. As for maintenance, always hand - wash the knife after each use. Don't put it in the dishwasher as the harsh detergents and high - pressure water can damage the blade and the handle. After washing, dry it thoroughly to prevent rusting. Store it in a knife block or a sheath to protect the blade and keep it sharp. And remember, use a proper cutting board, like wood or plastic, to avoid dulling the blade too quickly.