What is it and it it worth restoring?

[u/lilcole1]

I found this knife in a bin of old tools at a yard sale. It has seen its better day but I thought I’d post here before tossing it. I’m willing to clean it up if it’s worth anything. I can see JAPAN on one side and Hand Made High-Carbon Stainless Steel on the other side.

[u/danngree]

A old steak knife, no. I would not spend time on this project personally.

[u/jonny_rames_dio]

Japanese, but looks like a cheap-ish export product, and somebody unskilled already went to town on it with a belt sander.
I’d think if it as material to shape your own fishing or boning knife, not something to be restored

[u/mossoak]

try this ....soak the whole knife in hot sudsy water ....when water cools use a scrub pad, working in the same direction to try and knock off the "chunky" stuff .... if scrub pad & soapy hot water isnt effective, use steel wool and sprinkle on some bar keepers friend

[u/AdEmotional8815]

I mean it has a saber grind so I don't like it for food related stuff, but if you like it I don't see why it would not be worth restoring. If you plan on selling it I can't help.

[u/Karl_Chillers]

"Stainless" steel.

[u/Bidrick]

Anything made in Japan should receive an attempt…at least.

[u/lilcole1 → u/Bidrick]

Thanks - I’m a complete novice when it comes to knives but anything made in Japan catches my eye. Is there anything in particular I should avoid as far as cleaning?