This set is effective but very very sharp. I keep a cutting glove on top of the set. It has just the right amount of knives that I need for everyday use, and we do a lot of cutting and chopping as vegans. I haven't had to try the sharpener part yet, the knives keep their sharpness quite well! I received this set as a sample but I would have bought something this great myself. I also like that it has suction cups on the bottom so it doesn't move around.