Hey I'm relatively new to singe-bevels as well, and, for the price, I think the Masahiro traditional carbons are just fine for a first "beater" type knife. I've been using mine for a little over 6 months in a sushi bar, and sharpening once a week. It sharpens up well, and is good for learning how to take care of a reactive blade. There are some low spots in the bevel, but from what I've read on here that is the case even with more expensive knives. Just my $0.02 from a fellow noob.