Chroma- Porsche Type 301 The Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks — Kitchen Brigade Knife Guide
- Rany Prambs
- Aug 20
- 17 min read
Updated: Sep 16
"Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks"
First: How to use a whetstone to sharpen your knives
"Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks"
Why Quality Kitchen Knives Are Worth the Investment
Welcome to Kitchenbrigade.com A Home Cooking Community. Here you'll find what i personally feel are the "Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks" I've had my "Porsche knives" for 17 years and they're still going strong! That speaks volumes for the Chroma- Porsche Type 301 knives. A good set of kitchen knives isn’t just another kitchen purchase — it’s a lifetime investment. At Kitchen Brigade, we know that quality knives may cost more upfront, but they save you money, time, and frustration over the long run. A well-chosen knife lasts for decades, becoming a trusted companion for home cooks in their daily meal prepping, weekend dinners, and special family meals.
Many families even pass down kitchen knives as heirlooms, carrying memories, traditions, and stories through generations. For food-loving households, the thought that children or relatives might one day cook with the same knives adds a personal history and connection to everyday meals. The Kitchen Brigade Knife Guide is designed to support our home cooking community by helping home cooks choose the Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks. Knives that combine durability, precision, and comfort. These are tools that not only perform beautifully in the kitchen but also make meal prepping, casual dinners, and weekend feasts safer, easier, and more enjoyable. From your first chef’s knife to a complete collection of specialty tools, the right knives can transform both how you cook and how you experience your kitchen.
Ranys Story
I’ve relied on my Chroma- Porsche Type 301 kitchen knives since 2008 Thats— 17 years of daily use in my kitchen. IN 2015 I featured them in my book The Culinary Bible, its a recipe journal. These kitchen knives aren’t just tools — they bring joy to every slice, chop, and carve. Make every meal effortless and memorable.
Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks
The Essential Home Cooks Knife Collection
Chroma- Porsche Type 301:
How to Build Your Kitchen Knife Set Step-by-Step
1. Chef’s Knife (8”–10”)
The most versatile knife in any kitchen. Perfect for chopping vegetables, slicing meat, and mincing herbs.
2. Serrated Bread Knife (8”–10”)
Not just for bread — also great for tomatoes, citrus fruits, sandwiches, and delicate cakes.
3. Paring Knife
A small but mighty knife ideal for peeling, trimming, and detail work.
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4. *Boning Knife
Best for trimming meat and working around bones.
5. *Filleting Knife
With its flexible blade, it’s the go-to knife for preparing fish.
Kitchen Brigade Tip: Start with the three essentials from Chroma- Porsche Type 301(chef’s knife, bread knife, paring knife). "Add *specialty knives only if or when your cooking requires them."
Chef’s Knife vs. Santoku Knife: Which Should You Choose?
Many home cooks wonder about the difference.
Chef’s Knife — Balanced, versatile, slightly curved blade. Great for rocking motions and all-purpose prep.
Santoku Knife — Broader blade, usually shorter, excels at chopping and slicing. Can handles light light bones.
Both are excellent choices; it often comes down to personal preference and comfort.
Chinese vs. Japanese Cleaver: What’s the Difference?
When browsing professional knives like the Chroma–Porsche 301 line, it’s natural to wonder about the differences between knife styles, especially cleavers. While both Chinese and Japanese cleavers may look similar at first glance, they’re built with different purposes in mind. Understanding these differences helps cooks, students, and Cottage Food Operators choose the right tool for their kitchen.
The Chinese Cleaver (Chuka Bocho)
Shape & Size: Tall, rectangular blade that varies in thickness depending on its purpose.
Types:
Cai Dao – thin, razor-sharp, designed for vegetables.
Rou Dao – slightly thicker, suitable for slicing meat and cartilage.
Gu Dao – heavy-duty, made for chopping through bone.
Weight: Looks heavy but often balanced; lighter versions are comfortable for all-day prep.
Uses: The true multitasker—slices vegetables, minces herbs, crushes garlic, scoops ingredients, and can even tenderize meat.
Philosophy: Efficiency and versatility. In many Chinese kitchens, one cleaver can handle almost every task.
The Japanese Cleaver Family
Japanese knives lean toward specialization rather than all-purpose use.
Nakiri: Thin, double-beveled blade for clean vegetable slicing.
Usuba: Single-beveled, used by professionals for ultra-precise vegetable cuts.
Deba: Thick and heavy, designed for breaking down fish and poultry—not for bones.
Weight: Generally lighter than Chinese cleavers (except the Deba).
Philosophy: Precision
How to Choose the Best Kitchen Knives for You
Strong Steel — Durable, hard steel for long-lasting sharpness.
Full Tang — Blade runs through the handle for strength and balance.
Comfortable Grip — Handle should fit naturally in your hand.
Balance — Knife shouldn’t feel too heavy on the blade or handle.
Proper Size — Smaller hands may prefer an 8-inch chef’s knife, larger hands a 10-inch.
Testing a Knife in Store
Wrap your hand around the handle — it should feel natural.
Practice chopping motions on a board (ask staff if unsure).
Ensure wrist, arm, and elbow feel relaxed, not strained.
If a knife feels awkward, try another.
Pro Tip: Build your collection over time. One high-quality knife is better than an entire set of poor ones.
Knife Care: Protecting Your Kitchen Knives
Cleaning and Storage
Always hand-wash with warm, soapy water.
Dry immediately to prevent rust spots.
Never put knives in the dishwasher — heat and detergent damage blades.
Store in a knife block, magnetic strip, or blade guard for safety.
Sharpening and Safety
Sharpen regularly — dull knives require more force and are dangerous.
A sharp knife cuts cleanly, preserves food texture, and speeds up prep.
Never leave knives in the sink;
Always carry knives with the blade pointing down.
Common Knife Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Buying a full set on impulse just because it’s on sale.
Choosing knives that don’t feel comfortable in your hand.
Ignoring sharpening and proper care.
Assuming one knife will do every job.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Kitchen Knife Collection
The "Best Kitchen Knives for Home Cooks" are the top 3 knives (chef’s knife, bread knife, paring knife) will cover 90% of daily tasks. From there, expand your collection based on what and how you cook.
Invest in quality, take care of your knives, and they’ll last a lifetime — helping you cook with confidence and ease.
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Chroma- Porsche Type 301
KITCHEN KNIFE — PURPOSE GUIDE
Knife collection by Chroma, Type 310 designed by F.A Porsche. For me, these knives are just perfect! |
The 8½” Type 301 P06 Bread Knife features a serrated, jagged blade that makes slicing effortless. Its unique design allows home cooks to cut through soft bread without crushing it and handle dense foods like cakes, sandwiches, and even thick-skinned fruits such as pineapple or watermelon.
Perfect for both everyday prep and special occasions, this bread knife is more than just a “loaf slicer.” The serrated edge grips food while reducing tearing, giving you clean, precise slices every time. It’s also excellent for delicate items like tomatoes or layered cakes, where a smooth blade might struggle.
Durable, sharp, and balanced, the P06 Bread Knife is an essential part of any kitchen knife collection. Its versatility ensures you can tackle a wide variety of slicing tasks confidently, whether for casual meals or entertaining.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Keep the 8" bread Knife is handy for tricky slicing jobs — it’s perfect for bread, soft cakes, and even fruits with tough rinds. Its serrated edge is a game changer for effortless, clean cuts
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The Type 301 Boning Knife is a specialized tool built for accuracy and control. Its narrow, flexible blade allows home cooks and professional chefs to trim meat from around bones, portion poultry, and work with fish without wasting valuable cuts.
Perfect for tasks such as removing skin from chicken breasts, trimming fat from beef, or preparing fillets, the boning knife’s sharp, thin blade glides easily between meat and bone. Its design ensures clean cuts and reduces effort, making the prep process safer and more efficient.
Durable, well-balanced, and easy to handle, the Type 301 Boning Knife is a must-have for those who want precise results when working with meat and poultry. It complements your chef’s knife and carving knife, giving you a complete set for a variety of kitchen tasks.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the boning knife for delicate trimming or portioning tasks — its narrow, flexible blade is perfect for separating meat from bones without tearing or wasting food. Always keep it sharp for smooth, precise cuts.
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The 8-inch Type 301 P05 Chef’s Carving Knife is built for precision slicing and elegant presentation. Its long, narrow blade makes it easy to carve large cuts of meat, from roast beef and prime rib to turkey and chicken, without tearing or crushing the meat.
This carving knife is also excellent for trimming thicker cuts before cooking, ensuring even portions and consistent cooking. Balanced and comfortable in the hand, the P05 allows you to carve with control and confidence, making meal prep safer and more enjoyable.
Whether for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or everyday meals, the P05 Chef’s Carving Knife combines durability, precision, and comfort in a single tool.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Pair the P05 with a carving fork to hold meats steady while slicing — it’s perfect for creating evenly cut, presentation-ready portions with minimal effort.
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The Type 301 P17 Carving Fork is a must-have tool for anyone who wants safe, precise slicing of roasts, poultry, or other large cuts of meat. Its long, sturdy prongs hold meat securely in place, preventing slips and ensuring even, professional-looking slices.
Designed to complement your carving knife, the P17 Carving Fork allows home cooks and chefs to work with confidence when handling hot or heavy cuts of meat. It’s especially useful during holiday meals, dinner parties, or any occasion where presentation and accuracy matter.
Durable and well-balanced, this carving fork makes meat prep safer and easier, reducing the risk of accidents while improving efficiency. Whether you’re a home cook or professional, it’s the ideal tool to pair with your carving knife for perfectly portioned slices.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Always use the carving fork to stabilize meat before slicing — it keeps hot cuts secure, ensures even portions, and makes carving safer and more precise.
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The 10-inch Type 301 P01 Chef’s Knife is a multi-functional tool designed to handle a wide range of kitchen tasks with precision and ease. Its long, sharp blade allows you to chop, slice, and mince vegetables, fruits, and herbs efficiently, while the tip provides control for lengthwise cuts, such as celery or carrot sticks.
Strong enough to tackle denser vegetables like cabbage, squash, or celeriac, this chef’s knife is also ideal for carving thick cuts of meat and preparing poultry. Balanced, durable, and comfortable in the hand, the P01 makes food prep faster, safer, and more enjoyable for home cooks of all levels.
Whether you’re cooking a weekday dinner or preparing a festive feast, this chef’s knife covers 80–90% of daily tasks, making it a true kitchen workhorse.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Keep the 10" Chefs knife on hand for almost every prep task — it’s the knife you’ll reach for more than any other in your collection. Its versatility makes it a smart first investment in quality kitchen knives.
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The 5¾” Chefs Knife Chroma Type 301 P04 brings all the power of a standard chef’s knife into a more compact design, perfect for precise, small-scale prep work.
Its sharp, balanced blade excels at mincing herbs, slicing fruits, and chopping vegetables where control matters most. This smaller chef’s knife is especially helpful for cooks with smaller hands, tight spaces, or those who prefer a lighter, more maneuverable blade. Despite its size, the P04 remains durable and reliable, delivering professional-level performance for everyday cooking tasks.
Whether you’re preparing a quick salad, finely chopping garlic, or slicing strawberries for dessert, the Chefs knife 5¾” offers precision and comfort without compromising quality.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the 5¾” chefs knife alongside a larger chef’s knife to speed up prep — it’s perfect for herbs, small fruits, and detailed tasks while your main knife handles heavier chopping.
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6 3/4 In Chinese Cleaver CHROMA type 301 - Design by F.A. Porsche is constructed of stainless steel, and the blade is made of high-quality Japanese 301 steel. The blade of each knife is carefully razor sharp sharpened by the hand of a master. Do not use it to cut frozen foods, bones, or as a utility knife
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The 7¾” Type 301 Fillet Knife is built for precision, control, and flexibility. Its thin, sharp blade is designed to glide smoothly between flesh and bone, making it perfect for filleting fish, trimming poultry, or preparing delicate cuts of meat.
The slight flexibility of the blade allows for accurate, clean cuts while reducing waste and preserving the texture of your ingredients. Whether you’re preparing salmon, trout, or small game, this knife ensures professional-level results for home cooks and chefs alike.
Durable and well-balanced, the 7¾” Fillet Knife complements your kitchen knife collection, especially alongside your chef’s knife, boning knife, and carving tools. It is essential for anyone who wants precision in their prep work, particularly when handling delicate or intricate tasks.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the fillet knife for delicate meats and fish — the flexible blade makes it easy to separate flesh from bone cleanly. Always work slowly and let the knife do the cutting for the best results.
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The 6 3/4 Inch Nakiri Japanese cleaver P36 - CHROMA type 301 - Design by F.A. Porsche is constructed of stainless steel, and the blade is made of high-quality Japanese 301 steel. The blade of each knife is carefully razor sharp sharpened by the hand of a master. A metal "pearl" that clearly demarcates the end of the handle, for better control when cutting! Under no circumstances should a sharpening steel be used, as it will damage the blade. You'll need to order a Whetstone: "Only use a whetstone" read the instructions included with your whetstone carefully or watch the video. Sharpening with a 301 whetstone is so simple.
Kitchen Brigade Tip:
Do not use it to cut frozen foods, bones, or as a utility knife. Only use the knife to prepare food.__________________________________________________________________________________
The 3¼” Type 301 Paring Knife is designed for precision and control in the kitchen. Its short, rigid blade makes it perfect for delicate tasks like peeling apples, trimming vegetables, coring fruits, or hollowing out small ingredients.
This paring knife is ideal for tasks that require accuracy and careful handling, where a larger knife would be cumbersome. Despite its compact size, it is durable, balanced, and reliable — providing consistent performance for everyday prep work.
Whether you’re making garnishes, preparing fruit salads, or slicing small vegetables for intricate recipes, the 3¼” Paring Knife ensures clean, precise cuts with minimal effort. It complements your larger chef’s knife and other specialty knives in a full kitchen collection.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Keep the P09 paring knife handy for all detailed prep work — it’s perfect for peeling, trimming, and shaping fruits and vegetables with precision and ease.
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The 10½” Type 301 Pastry Knife is a specialized tool built for slicing cakes, pastries, and other baked treats with precision. Its long serrated blade cuts cleanly through soft or layered desserts without tearing or squishing them, ensuring perfect presentation every time.
Whether you’re preparing birthday cakes, layered desserts, or artisan pastries, the 10½” Pastry Knife offers the control and sharpness needed for professional-quality results. Its ergonomic design provides balance and comfort, making it easy to guide the blade for smooth, even slices.
Durable, sharp, and reliable, this knife is an essential tool for home bakers and chefs who value clean, precise presentation. It complements your other specialty knives, making your kitchen well-equipped for both savory and sweet creations.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the 10½” Pastry Knife for cakes and layered desserts — the serrated edge ensures clean, even cuts without crushing delicate textures. Always slice with a gentle sawing motion for best results.
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The 6.5” Type 301 Santoku Knife is a multi-functional kitchen knife designed for versatility and efficiency. Its broad, sturdy blade makes it perfect for slicing vegetables, cutting larger joints of meat, and preparing shellfish with ease. Traditionally associated with Asian cuisine, the Santoku excels at handling a variety of vegetable shapes and sizes, making it an excellent addition to any home or professional kitchen.
Unlike a standard chef’s knife, the Santoku combines the precision of a kitchen knife with the power of a cleaver. This allows cooks to perform a wider range of tasks without switching tools, from delicate slicing to more robust chopping and cutting. Well-balanced and comfortable in the hand, the 6.5” Santoku Knife reduces fatigue while providing accuracy for everyday cooking tasks.
Durable, sharp, and reliable, this knife is an essential tool for home cooks looking to expand their capabilities beyond traditional knives.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the Santoku for versatile prep — from slicing vegetables to cutting meat or shellfish. Its broad blade doubles as a cleaver, making it perfect for handling both delicate and heavier tasks in the kitchen.
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The Type 301 Salmon- Ham Slicer Knife is designed for precision slicing of cooked meats, including salmon, ham, and other delicate proteins. Its long, flexible blade allows you to create uniform, thin slices without tearing or crushing the meat, ensuring both professional presentation and optimal texture.
Ideal for home cooks, catering, or holiday meals, the slicer reduces effort while maximizing control. Whether you’re preparing a smoked salmon platter, slicing a holiday ham, or creating gourmet charcuterie, the Type 301 Slicer Knife makes every cut clean and effortless.
Durable, well-balanced, and precise, this slicer complements your other specialty knives, ensuring you have the right tool for both delicate and larger slicing tasks. Its flexibility provides smooth, controlled motion, helping you achieve consistently beautiful results every time.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the slicer knife to create uniform, thin slices of salmon, ham, or other cooked meats. Its long, flexible blade ensures clean cuts, perfect for presentation and even cooking portions.
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The 5” Type 301 Tomato Knife is specially designed for precision cutting of delicate fruits and vegetables. Its finely serrated medium-length blade makes it perfect for slicing tomatoes, sectioning grapefruit, and handling other soft or tender foods without crushing them. This knife excels in tasks that require accuracy and control, where a larger or straight-edged knife might struggle. It’s perfect for preparing salads, garnishes, fruit platters, and recipes that need clean, presentable cuts. Despite its small size, the P10 is durable, sharp, and comfortable to hold, making it an essential tool for both home cooks and professional kitchens.
Whether you’re slicing juicy tomatoes for a sandwich or segmenting citrus for a dessert, the Type 301 Tomato Knife ensures clean cuts with minimal effort.
Kitchen Brigade Tip
Keep the P10 handy for delicate slicing — its finely serrated blade makes short work of tomatoes, citrus, and other soft foods, giving clean, precise cuts without squashing or tearing.
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The 5” Type 301 Utility Knife is designed for everyday kitchen tasks that require precision and maneuverability. Its compact, sharp blade makes it ideal for cutting, trimming, peeling, and preparing small fruits and vegetables.
This utility knife is perfect for tasks that are too small for a chef’s knife but too large for a paring knife, offering versatility and convenience in one tool. Its balanced design and comfortable handle allow for efficient, accurate cuts without hand fatigue.
Durable, reliable, and easy to use, the P19 Utility Knife is an essential addition to any home cook’s or professional chef’s knife collection. It ensures consistent results for a wide range of prep tasks and complements larger knives in your kitchen.
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Kitchen Brigade Tip
Use the P19 Utility Knife for quick, everyday tasks like trimming vegetables, slicing small fruits, or peeling ingredients. Its compact size and sharp blade make prep work faster and more precise..
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Whetstone Chroma Type 301 - P35 -1000/3500 Combination whetstone.
P35 is a combination whetstone with rubber base.
The Chroma Type 301 - P35 -1000/3500 is a versatile combination whetstone designed for both sharpening and polishing knives. Here’s how to effectively use this whetstone: Steps to Use the Whetstone Sharpening the Knife:Start with the 1000 grit side of the whetstone. Ensure the knife is at the correct angle (typically around 15-20 degrees). Slide the blade across the stone side, applying even pressure. Repeat the process on both sides of the blade until the desired sharpness is achieved. Polishing the Knife: Flip the whetstone over to the 3500 grit side. Use the same angle as before for consistency. Gently glide the blade over the stone to refine the edge and enhance its polish. Ensure to cover the entire length of the blade for an even finish. Following these steps will help maintain your knives in excellent condition, ensuring they remain sharp and polished for optimal performance.
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Conclusion
Building a knife collection is more than just acquiring kitchen tools — it’s an investment in your cooking, your family, and your love of food. The Kitchen Brigade Knife Guide is designed to help home cooks select knives that combine durability, precision, and comfort, making everyday meal prepping, weekend dinners, and special occasions easier and more enjoyable.
Start with the essential knives — a Chef’s Knife, Bread Knife, and Paring Knife — and gradually expand to include specialty knives like the Santoku, Fillet, or Pastry Knife, based on your cooking style and needs. Each knife in your collection can become a trusted companion in the kitchen, helping you work faster, safer, and more efficiently.
At Kitchen Brigade, we believe in supporting a home cooking community where tools, knowledge, and shared experiences make cooking more rewarding. A well-chosen knife is more than metal and wood — it’s a tool that can inspire creativity, preserve tradition, and even become a cherished heirloom for future generations.
Ready to take your cooking to the next level?
Join the Kitchen Brigade Home Cooking Community – Share recipes, swap tips, and connect with other passionate home cooks.
Explore Our Recipes – Discover approachable, delicious dishes that make meal prepping, weekend dinners, and family meals more enjoyable.
Start Your Knife Collection Today – Follow the Kitchen Brigade Knife Guide to build a set of knives that will last a lifetime.
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Cooking is more than a task — it’s an experience. With the right knives, guidance, and a supportive community, every meal can be effortless, creative, and full of joy.
Beginner Knife Skills
Learn how to hold a knife, practice basic cuts (slice, dice, mince), and keep your knife edge safe by using the right cutting board.
Never purchase a knife that doesn't feel comfortable to hold or grip or, it'll only lead to an accident.
Cutting board is important. Steer away from glass the blade of your knife will get damaged also I feel they are dangerous. My preference is wood and has been right from the beginning - since the day I starting cooking.
Here’s a guide on how to sharpen kitchen knives using a whetstone:
Materials Needed; Check out the video
Whetstone (coarse and fine grit)
Small container to place the whetstone in water
Kitchen knife
Towel or non-slip mat
Steps to Sharpen Kitchen Knives: Check out the video
1. Prepare the Whetstone
Soak the whetstone in water for about 15 minutes or until no bubbles appear on the surface.
2. Set Up Your Workspace
Place the whetstone on a stable surface, using a towel or non-slip mat underneath to prevent slipping.
3. Determine the Angle
Hold the knife at a 15-20 degree angle against the whetstone. This angle is crucial for effective sharpening. Please enquire about our knife guide holders this will take the guesswork out of having to continuously- free hold the knife at an angle.
4. Start with the Coarse Grit
Begin with the coarse grit side of the whetstone. Use long, smooth strokes, moving from the heel of the blade to the tip. Repeat this motion 5-10 times on each side of the blade.
5. Switch to the Fine Grit
After achieving a good edge with the coarse grit, flip the whetstone to the fine grit side. Repeat the same process of sharpening, using the same angle and strokes.
7. Clean the Knife and Whetstone
Wipe the knife clean and rinse to remove any metal filings or debris.
8. Store Properly
Store your whetstone in a dry place and your knife in a protective sheath, magnetic strip or a butchers block to maintain the edge.
Tips for Maintaining Knife Sharpness
Use a cutting board to avoid dulling the edge.
Store knives properly to protect the blade.
Happy Cooking! from Rany.
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