Well this should be easy. From the Busse custom shop or from their current production line -- the knives are brand new. Which means they should be mint. If you're asking if they have as much attention to detail as a custom knife maker -- I'd say chances are no. They should come sharp, clean, and void of any scoffs/blemishes. If you received one with any issue -- I think they would be the first that would want to hear about it and/or remedy it. You paid top dollar, they're a top quality company, they have a top quality warranty/guarantee, and they have a first class customer service system.