So I'm going to purchase a few kitchen knives for a Christmas gift and have been doing a good bit of research. I think I've narrowed down a few potential brands and have decided to start the set with 2-3 knives based around a ~8" Chef's knife and a pairing knife. I'm open to the idea of mixing and matching brands a la carte to maximize value and from what I've gathered it sounds like it is the preferred method of assembling a cutlery set for those that are semi-serious about their cooking.
What I'm trying to figure out now is what style of knife to go with, Japanese or German? Any of you monkeys have any input? I know that handle feel is important but can be very personal, but as far as weight, size, etc. Plus any input on additional brands would be useful. Right now the brands I'm looking at are Messermeister, Wusthof, the higher end Henckels, MAC, and Shun.
What I'm trying to figure out now is what style of knife to go with, Japanese or German? Any of you monkeys have any input? I know that handle feel is important but can be very personal, but as far as weight, size, etc. Plus any input on additional brands would be useful. Right now the brands I'm looking at are Messermeister, Wusthof, the higher end Henckels, MAC, and Shun.