Why we love Sabatier knives

• Sabatier knives from France are forged thinner than German knives. They are sleek and finely tapered, with less bulk. As the knife progresses from the tip to the bolster it broadens to a larger more triangular shape that gives a greater sweep for each cut.
• These knives take and hold an edge beautifully and easily. Every cut is precise and clean.
• Sabatier knives do not require muscle for cutting. Their razor-sharpness does the work for you without requiring great pressure. Because the bolster is rounded, you can grip the knife high at the base of the blade for greater control. We know you will be greatly pleased by the way a Sabatier knife feels in your hand and handles as you cut.
• Stamina handles are known for their beauty and strength. They are made with a natural wood that is impregnated with a dye for wonderful color and resin which adds to its durability. The handles are secured with brass rivets for a rich antique look.

We offer three colors of wood handles, each impregnated with an epoxy resin for durability:

• Rosewood - The rich brown shadings of these handles reflect the natural rosewood.
• Green - The natural forest green tone (truly a unique color) is created from beech wood.
• White Micarta - This deluxe finish in composed of layers of pressed white linen. It holds its whiteness well and has subtle shadings of wood texture.

Who we are

This web site is operated by Bon Vivant School of Cooking in Seattle, Washington. We import Sabatier 4-Star Elephant knives from the Thiers-Issard company in Thiers, France. We are not the manufacturer of Sabatier knives and are unable to take refunds of knives purchased from other locations.

Since 1977, Bon Vivant has trained students to develop their knife skills, and perfect their cooking technique. Our students love Sabatier knifes and they thrive while using them.

A brief History of Sabatier Knives

Knife-making in the city of Thiers, France dates from at least the 12th century. In 1884, Pierre Thiers established his own knife-making factory, which he named Thiers-Issard (a combination of his own name and that of his wife). His knife production thrived and became highly respected.

In 1958 the third generation of the Thiers family, Louise and Pierre, purchased the mark of Sabatier **** (4-stars) in order to continue the family heritage of producing fine French knives. After worldwide success, the business was sold in 1985 and is now operated by Gilles Rayenwaeter.

The present factory is in the center of the knife-making district of Thiers and employs about 40 people. These master craftsmen make the finest French knives available. They are so skilled with their hands that they are often asked to make special tools for the defense industry, for the automobile trade, and for the medical trade throughout the world.

Though there are modern machines in the Thiers-Issard factory, there are no computerized robots doing the different operations. Each knife is hand made by a master craftsman.