Of all the Shun knives that I have, this is my current favorite. I love the way it feels in my hand. I am a lefty and the D-shape gives my fingers a place to rest with a pinch grip. The weight and balance of this gem is amazing. I tend to grab this one more than any.
I purchased this knife from my favorite local kitchen store about a month ago. I own three high quality ""chef's"" knives and I am hoping to add my collection of Shun knives. The steel Shun uses is superior to anything I have ever used or seen before. The edge just simply lasts. Crazy sharp blade for a long time, what could be better?. I describe this knife as a ""chef's utility"". It's nimble enough to make very precise cuts with things like herbs and garlic. But long enough (7 inches) to dice onion, bell peppers and even squash. This is not a knife to use if you have to cut 20 pounds of potatoes but is a pleasure to cut one or two potatoes. it's much more versatile than a typical chef's knife it the aspect that it's smaller and more like a utility knife. Fantastic for a home cook that does not do a ton of prep. If you want a more all-purpose prep knife, I'd recommend the premier santoku!