Featured in this issue is one of our French prides in the field of folding knives: Grind Tactical Knives (GTK). Winner of a magnificent prize at the world’s largest trade show, Thomas Gony represents France’s influence across the Atlantic, along with a number of other exceptional knifemakers. Combining stylish design, finely-tuned mechanics and impeccable finishing, these creators display what France has proudly worn for many centuries, and is the envy of the world: its exceptional craftsmanship. And despite the economic worries it is facing, it boasts some of the most talented and dynamic young people in the world – and so much promise!
As a result, La Passion des Couteaux now wishes to highlight, as part ofa feature devoted to Métiers d’Art, designers from other fields of arts and crafts often associated with cutlery. In this issue, we launch this section with a presentation of the Maison Tournaire, an exceptional jeweller who often finds inspiration on Atelier 1515 knives.
Also in this issue:
- As in every issue, we bring you the latest news from the cutlery industry, a few good buying ideas and a look back at the winter 2025-2026 trade shows.
- This Point of View by collector François Robineau completes the previous one with a gritty observation and concrete proposals for the future of the cutlery market.
- Fandecouteaux’s “Coups de cœur” this time focus on knives with full-material handles, which were a big hit at Shot Show 2026.
- The section devoted to collector’s knives, run by our partner Académie FX, presents the continuation of the extraordinary multi-piece knives, with a presentation of the finest contemporary creations!
- A bit of technique too, with a detailed presentation of how the various folding knife mechanisms work. Whereas in issue no. 166 we presented the widespread, old-fashioned two-nail design, here we explain in detail the ferrule system.
- As a reminder that cutlery is one of the specialties of the broader field of metalworking, we invite you to discover the vitality of this very old and still very active craft.
- Because there can be no good craftsmen without good tools, and because cutlery is not just for cutlers, here we present one of the most renowned manufacturers of machines and tools: Jolivet Mécanique!
- While we don’t hear much from the UK when it comes to knives, check out this excellent brand specializing in bushcraft: TBS Knives.
- In this issue, we meet two very young and talented cutlers, each with their own style: Laïos Noël, trained in Thiers, and Martin Mougeot-Bohers, blacksmith of folding knives.
- Let’s also take a look at the Lepage Knives brand, with a remarkable new engineering creation!
- Finally, let’s explore the fabulous work of the timeless Swede Peter Johnsson, whose swords lie somewhere between the measurable and the mythical, between geometry and imagination and wonder.
