I got this for my dad as an early Father's Day gift, and he is absolutely thrilled with it. The hand feel is excellent, the edge came razor-sharp, and the weight is perfect for someone who prefers a solid, confident blade. He has already used it for everything from prep work (he loves smashing garlic) to heavier chopping and cannot stop raving about it. He is already planning which knife he wants next. I think I created a monster!