Not your average magnetic knife strip. The MK9 is significantly heavier than the average chef knife, and the first 6 magnetic knife strips we tested didnt possess sufficient magnetism to hold it securely. While most knife strips use ferrite magnets, we couldnt pack enough ferrite magnets into a reasonably sized knife bar to make it strong enough. Thankfully, rare earth neodymium magnets have around 10X the magnetism of ferrite magnets. Still, the first prototypes with the new and improved neodymium magnets didnt hold the knife securely. A falling chef knife is a problem, and a falling MK9 is bigger problem. So, we added more magnets. Its not an inexpensive way to construct a magnetic knife strip, but its the only right way to build a magnetic knife holder for heavy knives. If we made it any more powerful, removing the MK9 might make you the king of England. The rare earth magnets are wrapped in a chunk of natural black walnut. Black walnut will never dull or scratch your MK9 blade, but is exceptionally durable and prized for its tight grain and rich dark color. Its tall dark and handsome, which pairs perfectly with the MK9. At 18 inches long, theres plenty of room for all the knives you care about, plus the ones you havent yet replaced with MANNKITCHEN knives. Yes, it will hold the best spatula for cast iron too. Comes with mounting hardware included (two screws with drywall expansion sleeves). Requires drilling two level holes 15 inches (381mm) apart.