These knives are amazing. I have never used a knife that was as sharp as the ones in this set. I have to be very careful handling them because I don't want to cut myself, so I promptly get them right back in the block. The first time I tried these, I cut through a calzone as if it were butter! This set is really nice too, because there is every kind of knife you could possibly want. I have not yet had the need to try the sharpener, but having it built right in is so convenient. My knives will always be as sharp as they are now.