This is the first German knife I've owned, and there is a huge difference in what I am used to cutting with. First of all, this knife has some weight which gives me the support I was hoping to find.  I'm no longer afraid of the blade breaking when trying to cut through potatoes and carrots.. I chose the utility knife because I need a dependable knife that would not require sharpening.  I use it for just about everything, from slicing fruits and vegetables, cold cuts, cheeses, and slicing breads and rolls.