French Mystery - Knives

I fancy myself a cook, and enjoy a good knife for cooking. But I have been traveling through the various French markets for years and have noticed but not understood the interest in knives, pocket knives, steak knives, cooking knives. The knife stalls always seems to attract numerous buyers, who really consider their purchases, and from knowledgeable vendors.

Trying to research this a little is not simple, but I have found one website that gives some explanation, for a manufacturer, Laguiole, for very high quality knives that we noticed in use at Le Planet, where we had yet another very good meal this evening. It is also interesting to note that these knives are still manufactured in France.

So, for you knife fanciers out there:

http://www.laguiole-france.com/index.php?module=Accueil

Expensive, but can cut through a thick meat with ease, and beautifully manufactured. Very substantial weight in your hand.

This must be in keeping with everything about French food, only the best, and what lasts forever. Not the disposable society of the new world.