im not to knowledgeable when it comes to knives. I've been reading about different styles and types trying to obsorb as much as I can. I'm still trying to justify spending 100+ for a blade.

I came across the French Laguiole style when looking into suggested blade geometry for cleaning waterfowl, and I'm pretty intrigued by its shape. Reminds me of something my grandfather once had.

There are a few who know more than I do, but what I do know is the more expensive ones have the name stamped in the blade and not etched.

 

Look for "Made in France" as well, as there are many cheap versions produced in Asia.

I have a nice boxed carving knife and fork set in a presentation box and the steel is stamped Made In China, IIRC.

Gave it to my GF, so it's at her place and I can't verify that, but you're right.  They repo that stuff quite often.

Chris

Skip the Laguiole and go for a Jacques Mongin Yatagan, same blade geometry better knife and old ass design, like 600-800 years old. Laguiole has the gay and there are three or more companies that claim theyre the real deal. Mongin's are the working mans blade. I prefer the ringlock too. Chambriard knives are another slipjoint pocket knife similar to the Laguiole but I'd still go Mongin over either.

If you want cheaper, look at Opinel's Inox line. I believe Coghlan's is the US distributor for Opinel. Nontron are another less expensive design although they are not as robust as the Opinel IMHO, but a cool old design none the less.

I bought this in Munich at a cutlery shop for I think $125? Very well made knife, used it to cut fruit the whole trip.

ETA: Found it for sale on Amazon for $130 shipped.

http://www.amazon.com/Laguiole-Aubrac-Pocket-Sandvik-stainless-L0212EBI/dp/B00PABV3GY




 

http://www.laguiole-arbalete.com/boutique/en/166-les-couteaux-laguiole-arbalete-g-david-collection-grande-nature

http://www.couteaudelaguiole.com/2-couteaux-traditionnels


http://www.laguiole-en-aubrac.fr/francais/nouveautes_pliants.html


http://www.laguiole-arbalete.com/boutique/en/195-laguiole-1868