While one could sharpen these up and get right to work with them, I knew what I was getting into when I purchased the 12-piece set. I really dislike the handles. Thankfully, I'm a woodworker.... Handles aren't a big deal. I will be fitting these with new, more comfortable handles, and including steel strike ferrules on the back ends so they can be properly used with a mallet. Aside from polishing each tools steel portions, they all require a bit of set up (flattening, bevel geometry adjustments, easing of sharp edges along flats/lands) before use. Putting a bit of effort into your tools is highly rewarding and will ensure that they are capable of the jobs they are used for. Can't wait to make this set into something that I'll reach for on every project!