This is my first Japanese style knife. It definitely feels different than its German counterparts and it's taking me some time to feel like it's as "sharp." I'm sure it is but I'm having a bit more difficulty cutting than I normally would (likely because of the different weight). Otherwise, it looks great and I'll either get used to it the way it is or need to sharpen it. I have noticed that the Damascus is developing some cosmetic blemishes (lines after washing with a gentle sponge, drying, and storing in a blade guard) but that shouldn't impact performance.