I have had a set of classic Chicago Cutlery knives for many years. They were always good knives, but they were getting pretty old (though still useful). When I came across a set of CC's Essentials knives for what seemed a great price at a local hardware store, I grabbed them up. However, I was extremely disappointed in the set for various reasons (tendency toward rust spots, serrated knives that tore rather than cut, and the cheap feel). Not ready to give up on Chicago Cutlery, I found this Insignia2 set for a good price on ShopWorldKitchen and ordered them. SO much different than my experience with the Essentials set. These knives are beautiful, very solid and well-balanced, and very, very sharp. Using them is actually a pleasure, and I can tell they will last for many years to come.