[teashades]

For what it's worth, I've had a 8" classic Shun chef's knife for 7 years now, and I've been extremely happy with it. Stays sharp for a long time, and it's relatively easy to resharpen with a whetstone (with a bit of practice) well balanced, good grip and weight. It was expensive, but if I consider its cost spread over all the years I already had it, and will continue to have and use it every single day, it is more than justified.