French cutlery has a fascinating history, of which we still have some splendid specimens, but few stories. In the face of the wonder that these pieces bring to the lucky few who have the opportunity to admire them, or even to collect them, stories emerge without giving the certainty that they are myths, tales or legends. The Châtellerault is such a story, even though only a handful of examples of fine cutlery remain in the world. The ones featured on the cover of this issue of n°168 and in the dedicated article are unrivalled anywhere in the world. It’s a little story within a big story, as Châtellerault was home to some of the finest workshops in the “all-purpose” knife industry, and these have left their mark on the great history of French cutlery.
But we need to make sure that we protect our wealth of cutlery for future generations. We have therefore invited a number of cutlers to give their views on what needs to be done to reassure customers and encourage them to keep the flame of their passion burning.
Also in this issue:
- As in every issue, we bring you the latest news from the cutlery industry, a few goodbuying ideas and a look back at the trade shows taking place in the early spring of 2026.
- Here, @fandecouteaux’s Coups de cœur are devoted to the remarkable productions of Chinese industrialist WE Knife, in particular the exceptional collaboration with David Lespect.
- A hatchet for gardening? Spring is the time for gardening and small jobs. In this issue’s Conso feature, we’ve tested several hatchets to help you make your own choice.
- For heavier work, we suggest you discover one of the best brands of axes: Gränsfors Bruck!
- Let’s take a closer look at an exceptional and very rare piece housed in the Solingen Museum: a Khukuri made from blast furnace steel.
- A bit of technique too, with a detailed presentation of how the various folding-knife mechanisms work. Following on from two-nails and ferrules, here we look at the different shapes of folding knives.
- Making leather cases requires meticulous preparation. Paulo Simoës offers tips and advice on choosing the right leather for your project.
- Knives and tattooing are often associated, and bring together many enthusiasts. A few tattoo artists explain.
- In this issue, we meet two young knifemakers who are doubling their skills in their quest for beauty: Dominique Chevallet, who is also an engraver, and Honoré Vilain, who is also a bronze turner.
- In these uncertain times of energy crisis and climate disruption, more and more young craftsmen are thinking about how to make a living from their passion while minimizing their impact on the planet. Here, Martin Claudel, artisan taillandier, explains why this is possible.
- Pierre-Yves Javel, our expert on craft knives, tells us here about the history and diversity of sailors’ knives.
- And finally, our “Métiers d’Art” feature introduces you to the world’s only cane manufacturer: Cannes Fayet. Based in Thiers, it has long equipped the world’s greatest stars with canes like works of art.
