Have used many knife sets over the years, some more expensive than these. Was very pleased with how sharp they were out of the box. (I am used to sharpening knives immediately -- before using -- as factory efforts are never comparable to what we can, with care and the right tools, do at home.)
When it comes to sharpness, I am a sharpening fool: water cooled 10" sharpening wheel and all. My wife, on the other hand, is not so obsessed. And, she was very impressed with these knives as soon as we opened the box and started using them. And, after some use, they are holding their edge. The balance of the chef's kitchen knife (along with others) is such that they also have a pleasing feel when in hand.
Have not attempted to resharpen yet. But, given the steel they are advertised to be comprised of, should be fine.
Steak knives, not something I wanted (but, my wife had other views), are a delight. Instead of the usual serrated edge found on cheaper sets, they have an actual VERY sharp straight edge and should work well, even when that flank steak was not quite as tender as you had hoped. And, because they are not serrated, they can be sharpened more easily.
Do like the natural wood block. This set replaces a set that had a wood block painted black. After little use, paint nicks-- don't quite hit the knife slot with the knife -- made that black, painted block look unattractive.
