As an ex-chef who is intimately familiar with quality knives, this is a fantastic knife for the price. The weight is hefty, though balanced. The belly of the handle is also very comfortable in the hand while allowing for proper pinch-grip. I have not needed to sharpen or hone yet, but I expect the edge to hold quite well. 

Outside of use and feel, it is truly a beautiful blade—I love the affect of the acid wash on the Damascus.