Great every day chef's knife.  Lighter than a traditional 8 inch chef's knife, and much sharper.  This is the Japanese version of a Western chef's knife.
The Artisan is made with SG2 Japanese steel which is way harder than some of the German Steels, making it hold an edge longer.  Still need to hone and sharpen these knives but not as often.  The acute 9.5" angle is consistent with Japanese design and manufacturing which makes it sharper than the Western knives and a pleasure to use.