I know these knives have been discussed a lot here but I have a couple questions. Are they really as easy to sharpen as carbon blades? I know that's a loaded question because some carbon knives don't sharpen so well but on average. Also I'm under the impression jknives are superior not only for their thinness and geometry but also they're a harder steel so the edge lasts longer. These are rated at 59-61 hrc. 61 isn't bad but at 59 that's comparable to Germans. Which isn't very good and since I don't use a steel... And last but not least I'm a lefty. Will the asymmetry be a downside for me? Thanks. Really I'm looking at the carbonext because it's priced well and doesn't seem to need a lot of work besides the edge itself. I'm no where near to level to buy something like the Hiromoto AS and the work it entails and after owning several stainless knives I'll never buy another