I cut myself after sharpening it on a 1000 grit Japanese stone. Some residue due to the black stuff, that normally comes off after washing the knife a little bit. Though would of liked the thickness to be a little bit less, but after using it for a day or two you get used to it. Over-all a nice purchase and would purchase another thinner knife for small game and fruit/vegies. Happy with the purchase. Left a nice clean cut on the hand.