Go over to the kitchen knife forums and search the many threads about guys having their knives stolen or damaged when they brought them to work. A $1000 custom might as well be a Dexter if they are both dull. Learning to sharpen will take you further in many ways. The Richmond Artifex 240 gyuto in AEB-L can be had for $75 in the closeouts section here: http://www.chefknivestogo.com/riar24gy.html There are other good deals as well, but you won't be breaking the bank getting into J-style knives.