These Astra SPs are sharp, but IMHO not as sharp as many reviews might lead one to believe. They're also smoother than many blades, but not as smooth as some. I've been using them, quite happily for many years and really have no complaints. Many moons ago I was getting somewhat disillusioned with Feather blades and, based on reviews I had read stating that these are almost as sharp as Feathers but much smoother, decided to give these a shot. Given my limited experience with blades at the time, I found this to be true. I was and still am quite happy with these. I can get two or maybe three good head and face shaves on one blade with minimal irritation. They're definitely on the cheaper end of the spectrum. That said, now that I have slightly more experience with blades (mostly thanks to a PIF from a member here), I don't find them as good as I used to. Voskhods and Israeli Personnas - about the same price point as the Astras - are I think both sharper and smoother. Gillette Nacets are as well, though at roughly twice the price. I still like the Astra, it's a perfectly competent blade, but I think there are better options out there for the same money.