Most of the time (atleast here in the states) you have to request them to send you chop sticks and they will charge something like 5 cents a pair. I have never actually received them with out having to ask for them.

It is actually easier then it looks just as long as you don't over think it.

My wife had no clue how to use them, people had tried to teach her before and she could not get the hang of it. After about 5 minutes of me teaching her she was using them like a champ.

As for them being on the slower side, I have never noticed it. Maybe I have just used them for so long that I eat fairly quick with them. Just as fast if not faster then eating with a fork.