Fantastic value for money. These pencils have a medium soft core, hold a point well, lay down smoothly, and both layer and blend easily. A few manufacturing issues promptly and satisfactorily addressed by customer service (eg off center/damaged cores in a few pencils, damaged inside tray and aesthetic faults on barrels). On the whole a very good set on a par with the more expensive artists range. I would like to see open stock offer to replenish existing sets but will definitely pur have again