THE knife French par excellence remains the fruit of a long artisanal tradition. Its history is closely linked to that of rural life and industrial evolution. The Manufrance knife has retained the best of cutlery from yesteryear to offer you a selection of the greatest French brands.
Throughout the history of cutlers from France , you will understand the quality of the Manufrance knife . Introducing the biggest names in knife manufacturing for both hiking and cooking. Their evolving, sharp-edged designs never betray their original lines: the improvements made have contributed to the success of these knives. Laguioles , The Thiers And Opinels of all blades. Here is their story in light of the transformation of French territory in recent centuries.
Laguiole knives, the story of a reputation acquired through use
In 1829, the cutler Pierre-Jean Calmels settles in Laguiole in Puy-de-Dôme. He makes a knife from two already existing models. He combines the capuchadou used in Aveyron and the long Navaja knife with a folding blade from Spain. He adapts his knife x of Laguiole to the needs of the local population.
Demand is exponential. 1880 is the year of recognition: the quality of Laguiole cutlery is no longer in doubt. Production then becomes industrial. Relocation to Thiers is inevitable to meet orders. The know-how therefore passes into the hands of cutlers from Thiers . Laguiole cutlery stamped with a bee on the handle of the blade spring is a sign of quality tableware.
Faced with the proliferation of counterfeits, the demands of professional cutlers are giving rise to a revival of artisanal production. Local production is being revived. cutlery from Thiers trains artisans in the manufacture of the prestigious kitchen knife. In 1987, Laguiole knives were once again handcrafted and adjusted in their hometown. The hardness of their metal and the flexibility of their steel are the result of a long, multi-phase artisanal process for precision assembly. This model, initially a hybrid, has conquered the finest tables and maintained its place among the great French knife brands. Laguiole knives therefore remain a benchmark. Manufrance distributes the latest Laguiole creations to perpetuate the tradition of excellence.
The cutlers of Thiers, the guarantors of artisanal know-how
In Puy-de-Dôme, Thiers cutlery dates back to the Middle Ages. Its artisanal production is the work of many artisans in the region. It can take on an artistic form. It is then exported to several European countries such as Spain, Italy, and Germany. Forged from steel of remarkable quality, it requires authentic expertise.
The industrialization of the local economy led to the division of the various manufacturing stages. Each Thiers cutler developed their own specialty to combat the mechanization of know-how. Seeking recognition, the Thiers Cutlery Brotherhood was created: the artisans sought to protect their expertise and the quality of their production.
THE knife from the Thiers table has met the manufacturing standards of the models of the eponymous town of Puy-de-Dôme since 1993. The Charter of the Brotherhood of the Thiers Knife claims a spring forged and hand-guilloché in small family businesses. A hallmark with the Pirou castle recalls the origins of the model marketed after the phases of tempering, grinding, shaping and sharpening carried out by hand.
The Sandvik tempered stainless steel blade guarantees the robustness of Thiers cutlery. A diversified offering satisfies a variety of current users. The Cutlery Museum and the International Festival in Thiers are a testament to the efforts of artisanal businesses to perpetuate local expertise.
Opinel knives, a constantly evolving invention
The history of knife x Opinel begins in 1890, in Savoy. Joseph Opinel , The son of a blacksmith, he makes essential farming tools. He devotes his spare time to making pocket knives. Quickly adopted in the surrounding villages, the Opinel has a high-carbon steel blade. The cherry wood handle accommodates the blade's edge for easy transport.
From 1955, a viro bloc ensured user safety. Manufacturing quickly went beyond the family: the process became industrialized and the society Opinel was founded in 1958. The brand offers different ranges and sizes adapted to each use. A crowned hand appeared on the blade in 1909 to authenticate the brand and respect the royal ordinance of 1565. The profile of Opinel knives was awarded a gold medal and international recognition.
Star chefs like Marc Veyrat pay tribute to him on a daily basis. In 1989, the Opinel Museum was inaugurated in the original workshop. Today, the manufacturing site is located in Chambéry but remains under the family aegis. The models no longer need to be sharpened: the stainless steel blade, modified Sandvik, is durable. The handles can be made of oak, beech or walnut and even fiberglass for DIY. Wood shavings are systematically recycled to heat the building. Since 2016, this French art of living has been exported thanks to the subsidiary established in Chicago.
Authenticity and quality define the knife French . From folding hiking knives to table cutlery, Manufrance knives strive for robustness and efficiency. As in their early days, the major French knife brands maintain a craftsmanship that serves all purposes. You can order a Le Thiers table knife or Laguiole cutlery to equip yourself with beautifully crafted kitchen utensils. knife of poached folds up and provides many services once you're in the great outdoors. You're sure to find yours among our premium selection, including a children's model with a round tip from the Opinel knife series. Your personal story with the pocket knife begins now: it will accompany you on excursions and in all your daily adventures. It's up to you to decide which type and style you prefer...