I had originally planned to buy a Shun knife but when I tried it out in a store it felt too big, heavy, and awkward in my hand. (I am 5 feet tall and have relatively small, but strong hands). The Wusthof fits me just perfectly. I've been using both knives for a couple of months now and find that they do a great job without stressing my hands or wrists. I mostly use them for fruits and veggies. I strongly recommend that if you are new to quality knives you should go to a store and handle a bunch to see what feels most comfortable in your hand then buy it on Amazon where the price can't be beat, especially with free shipping. I like the storage box that the knives came it. I set it in a drawer and keep the knives in it. It keeps the knives safe and me safe from them! I must say that the hollows on the santoku knife edge don't seem to stop food from sticking, but I don't find that to be a problem.