I have always loved my Ginghers and I use the whetstone that came with my set all those years ago so they stay sharp. A year or so I decided to buy another 4" pair because I have become so spoiled to them that I wanted to have a pair for the sewing machine and a pair for the ironing board. The second pair is slightly lighter weight and thinner. I still enjoy using them, but I definitely know that they are different. I am sure that the manufacturing locations must make a difference. I also have the spring loaded scissors by Fiskar and a pair of Kai that I like. I bought a smaller pair of Kai when they were on sale and don't really like them because my fingers don't seem to fit.