I used an 8 for quite some time, as I had been advised to do when I first got started in pro kitchens. I can only assume that this is because I do have fairly small hands. Once I occasioned to start using a 10 it was no looking back. I find that as much as the extra length I appreciate the noticable additional weight. Makes me feel I am more in control of my blade. As to brand get what you feel comfortable with. Many of my colleagues use Globals, but I've never liked them either. Used a Grand Prix for a long time, it has now been retired to home use and replaced with a Furi. I picked mine up in Australia, but have since learned there are some american distributors. I think it's the best knife I've ever used. But buying a knife is like buying shoes, you just can't do it for anyone but yourself.