Extremely easy to handle. Excellendt at cutting through raw meat and other things not handled well by a chef's knife or cleaver. I use mine in place of a chef's knife often because it is so easy to handle.

As a professional chef, for over a decade, I have used many styles and brands of kitchen knives. Shun has become my favorite brand. They are all very well crafted and have impeccable balance. With my proclivity in hand I decided to buy this chef's knife.
Previously I had owned five Shun knives, which had been severely damaged in a fire. Looking to replace my investment I wanted to reestablish my collection. This knife seemed like an interesting, yet unconventional for American chefs, place to start. Nearly two hundred dollars later my collection began again.
As a person who handles knives roughly three to four hours a day, I have to say that this is an exceptionally well crafted blade. Beautiful to the eye and incredibly comfortable to hold. The Pakka wood handle was set perfectly and feels very smooth. The factory edge was keeen enough to shave with. Using this knife for vegetable prep was a dream walk. But the question remained, is it worth it's price tag?
Even though this knife performed beautifully I would not recommend it to most people. I thoroughly enjoyed using this knife, but many would find it far too heavy and cumbersome for regular usage.

Set out on an arduous mission to find a knife that allows clearance for knuckles on big hands. I was hesitant about the shun due to price but ultimately took the plunge. Exceptional craftsmanship and quality. Awesome form, fit and function. The only regret I have is not getting one sooner! Planning to add some more shun knives to the kitchen soon.