Before owning this set of knives, all I had was hand me down knives from my parents. Knives that did not quite cut it and I did not enjoy using. Man, this set of knives changed the way I cook and how I prepare food. Cutting is so fun now and effortless. You can say these knives are a cut above the others. The knives are well made. The handles are smooth with the weight more towards the handle. The sharpness is unparalleled, plus my set came with the honing rod and the sharpener so there is no worries about my knives getting dull. Love these knives and I know they are going to last a long time too.