When we moved a few weeks ago, I decided get rid of the mishmash of numerous flatware sets I had accumulated over the years and splurge on something really nice. Initially, I was hesitant about buying flatware online, as comfort and balance are qualities that can't be determined other than in person. However, given that most of what is available to buy is available only online, I figured I just had to bite the bullet and do it. So, I narrowed down my choices to 4 or 5 and then asked my husband which he preferred. We both like sleek and modern, and this set certainly fit the bill. My only hesitation was the knife. Yes, it IS different. However, that was largely WHY my husband chose this set: "I like the knife!" Heck, it's only flatware, I reasoned; pricey flatware, yes, but we can always return it if it doesn't "feel" good. Once it was here, it took me a week or so to get used to the narrower handles, and I fumbled with the knife for that same time period, but now I have to say that I really, really like the knife; we both do. Unlike regular knives it doesn't slide off the plate; like a fork or spoon, it stays put. Overall, it's a beautiful set: sleek, modern, well-crafted, well-balanced, not too heavy and not too light. Plus, all the pieces are well-proportioned in relation to one another, something that wasn't the case with some of the other sets that I otherwise would have considered. Even with only two of us, we go through a lot of utensils and dishes in a day, so I will be looking to increase from 8 to 12 the number of sets we have the next time they go on sale. We're both very pleased with this set and highly recommend it. Thanks for a quality product.