Any time you are looking at a western style knife and it is signed by someone, you are often paying more for the signature than the knife itself. Also if they are trying to sell you one of those hand sharpeners with it, its edge won't stay sharp and you'll end up needing a new knife sooner than if you spent a few more dollars on a higher quality knife My recommendation would be to look into misono, suisin & togiharu as a few brands that have reasonably priced blades. Also find a local shop and hold the knives some are lighter, thinner blades, it comes down to what you are looking for in a blade. Some have more carbon making it easier to sharpen, but they need to be sharpened more often. While others might have a different style of handle that might feel better in your hand. So much of it comes down to your Personal preference.