These are basically good Calphalon pans. A number of folks have commented on concerns with the pans, and, unfortunately, many simply reflect a lack of understanding of what this cookware is and is not.

1. Yes, they’re made in China, and in some cases, that means a slightly thinner metal (this has been in part a response to complaints about pans being too heavy, though.). They still provide great heat transmission and evenness of cooking.
2. No, they are NOT non-stick; they’re not supposed to be. So, what to do? Know how to use the pans. Cook your meat and veggies at a slightly lower burner temperature, and use some oil/butter/fat to prevent problems. These pans will give the stuff a great browned crust that is impossible in a non-stick pan. Now, if you’re trying to make crepes or omelets, and you’re not a trained chef, you should seek out a non-stick pan.
3. Yes, the handles are slightly rough to the touch–it’s the style used in their hard-anodized line, and actually give you a better grip on the pan’s handle than the smooth and slick handles on the non-stick line. If you don’t like the look, that’s fine, but it’s not a flaw or a lower quality product.

Personally, I am not hugely impressed with the combination of pans in this set. It would be a good add-on to an existing group of pots and pans, but to be honest, I would not recommend this as a first set of cookware, simply because these are not necessarily the most useful combination of pans you could get. It is not likely that someone is giong to want three uncovered skillets in different sizes, but no saute pan, a short saucepan of small size, but no taller or Windsor style ones, a large and a small soup pot/casserole/Dutch oven, but no stockpot. I do have and use all of these pieces at least semi-regularly, but I also cook a lot, and am rather choosy about having the “perfect” pan for the right job.

Also, do note that this line of cookware has been discontinued by Calphalon, so if you are looking to base a larger set of matching cookware around this set, you will likely be disappointed. Personally, I prefer to pick and choose the best from multiple lines of cookware (ie, Dutch/French ovens from Le Creuset, nonstick omelet/crepe pans, a Lodge cast iron skillet for cornbread), so this would not be an issue for me.

I give the set five stars, because it is a great product at a usually excellent price — this is a real bargain at most prices I’ve seen posted. But I also encourage potential buyers to know and understand what they are, and are not, getting, so that they can decide if this fits the bill.