I absolutely love this knife. Have had the Birchwood chef for a few months and thought Id treat myself to another pretty birchwood shape. First off, the handle is georgous! I know it requires a bit more attention because it is really wood and can swell and shrink if its wet too long,But that said, its such a beautiful knife I'd take extra good care of it any way! the Santoku shape is new to me and I am now forever a fan! Chopping versus slicing with a chef, much better contact area with the cutting board and cleaner cuts of the vegetables. It is light weight but does the job as well or better than other knives. My hubby thinks the handle is a bit slight for him... Great he will stay away from my knife!