What is important to me is a very refined small grained carbon steel so it will take a quick edge at a decent hardness that will hold an edge. Refined 5160 and 52100 grain will take a quick edge and keep it.

I like deferential hardened steel tempered to a point the steel will deflect or roll before it will chip.
Convex ground and a blade profile that will sing while following a hone.
As mentioned, some belly that flows and cuts with my wrist, and a good working tip that can get into the work.

A handle that shakes my hand like a long lost friend, that won't pinch, bind or slip. I like a thought out guard that compliments not hinders the job 'at hand' and allows a finger forward the guard for work that requires more control.

Overall something 'Gut-pile-friendly' an ease to work with.

Why? Cause we can't eat them whole.

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I could get along with this one rather well.
My $0.02 cents worth.

Clinging to my God, and my guns!