Mac Knife Ultimate French Chef's Knife, 9-Inch

I'm Hoping that I received a defective sample...I really like the shape, weight and balance of this knife. It was easy to handle and sharp out of the box, but in washing it after only a coupe of uses, I found that the handle on one side was separating from the tang (you could see light through half of the handle and a separation of ~1/16 of an inch). I washed it by hand and immediately dried and placed in a block after every use. Upon further inspection, there were scratches on the bolster and a slight 'wave' to the rear of the blade below the bolster as well; neither of these issues would bother me had the handle not been separating. If the fit and finish were correct, I would give this item 5 stars. I have returned for a replacement and will update this review and rating when it arrives.UPDATE: I received the replacement and the fit and finish issues are not present with the replacement. Updated to 4 stars. I have purchased other similar knives (240MM Gyuto) for over $100 less with equal or better steel (HAP40), but I haven't found a better handle feel than the MAC

Best Knife I have ever come across. I have used Shun for quite some time and never thought I would move on to another brand, but the Mac Ultimate blows anything else away. Only problem has been finding an edge guard or saya that will fit it. The bolster makes it awkward in shape and hard to find one that will fit its blade. I still have to give it 5 stars because it is that good. The knife looks gorgeous, feels great in my hand, works brilliantly and has kept its sharp edge no matter what kind of work I have been putting it through.

I recommend this knife to anyone, whether a chef or at home cook. This thing is so smooth and sharp, the handle is very ergonomic, and the size is perfect. The price is a little high, but is so worth the cost when you get the knife.

The best chef knife I have ever used. This knife is incredible. It's solid, sharp, amazing quality.

So disappointed with this knife. Lost its razor edge after only an hour or two of light veg prep over the course of two days (mostly salad). This is not the high quality I have come to expect of Mac knives as they usually have brilliant edge retention.

Stunning blade with an exceptional edge.

Best knife I have ever had keeps edge great

Amazing knife. Worth every penny. Simply the best.