Sabatier Laguiole Steak Knife Set | Black and Brass 6 Piece

Sabatier Laguiole Steak Knife Set Built in the style of the workmen's pocket folding knives which first originated in the French village of Laguiole, these six steak knives mimic the design but not all the quality of this old French pattern. The full tang plain edged blades ground from stamped steel do flex with a little side pressure, and the handle assembly uses small brass rivets and black polymer handle slabs that definitely call for hand washing. Dishwashers could do some damage to the set.

Look closely at the junction of the brass fittings with blade and handle, and you'll see gaps where water and food could linger. The stress of a dishwasher could gradually loosen the construction. Hand washing avoids that problem, but getting the knives truly clean by hand will be challenging.

In another important detail, some corners have been cut. The trademark Laguiole bee at the base of the blade is steel, not the traditional brass of the real Laguiole knives.

With care most problems can be overcome, and this knife set does offer a traditional Laguiole appearance. Not every tableware pattern harmonizes with this slender pistol grip style, a relic from the countryside of France and Spain where the original folding knives became the standard pocket blade. Many different types were designed to meet customer requests, with some models built for carpenters or sheepherders and others made for waiters and chefs. As serving knives the patterns lost their original folding joint but not their rustic look.