This classic 7" chef knife is hand-forged from XC75 high-carbon steel, ground thin for explosive cutting power, and fitted with a lightweight Nogent beechwood handle capped by a polished brass ferrule. The forged rat-tail tang shifts weight toward the edge for lively balance, while the satin-finished blade will quickly develop a handsome patina unique to your kitchen.

Nogent by K Sabatier revives the mid-century French pattern where every blade was forged in one piece, then hand-ground and heat-treated to 54–56 HRC. Expect subtle variations in geometry—proof of true hand craftsmanship—paired with carbon steel that sharpens in moments yet holds a keen, toothy edge through long prep sessions.

K Sabatier is the flagship line of the eighth-generation Sabatier Aîné & Perrier family, who have been forging professional knives in Thiers since 1834. Awarded France's prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV) label for exceptional savoir-faire, this eighth-generation family workshop has produced 100% forged knives for nearly two centuries, controlling each step from hammer to polish. The company safeguards traditional French techniques—single-piece forging, integral heat-treatment, and meticulous hand fitting—that distinguish true Sabatier knives from imitations, guaranteeing professional balance, strength, and authenticity while upholding traditional French craftsmanship for chefs worldwide.

Philippe Sabatier began forging knives in Bellevue nearly two centuries ago, passing down craft secrets through generations that continue to honor his legacy today. Fifth- and sixth-generation smiths produced these exceptional Nogent blades, each one reflecting the hands that forged, ground, and stamped it more than half a century ago. Their descendants continue to honor the minimalist Nogent build—a bolster-less blade, hidden tang, and wooden handle that keeps the knife feather-light and fast, ideal for the precise, rhythmic cuts of classic French cuisine. Each Nogent blade is finished by hand and heat-treated to a resilient 54–56 HRC for everyday durability and effortless sharpening, maintaining the authentic character that defines true French cutlery.

Chef Knife (Couteau de Chef) – the original French design that inspired German and Western chef knives – showcases the classic profile with its distinctive triangular shape and thin blade geometry, perfected in French kitchens over centuries, established the template for the modern chef's knife we know today. The French couteau de chef excels at the fundamental techniques of slicing, dicing, and mincing with its gently curved belly that invites smooth rocking cuts through herbs and aromatics, while the thin, flexible blade provides superior control for precision work. Often called the "king of the kitchen," this all-purpose workhorse makes quick work of chopping vegetables, trimming meat, slicing fish, and carving proteins with the effortless grace that defines French culinary tradition. Its lightweight construction and forward balance point offer exceptional maneuverability, making it the backbone of professional French kitchens and the first knife most French cooks reach for.

Fully Forged Monosteel Each knife is drop-forged from a single billet, producing a fine grain for maximum toughness. The rat-tail tang is burned into the handle and secured with a solid brass ferrule for generations of service.

XC75 Carbon Steel contains approximately 0.75% carbon, giving it the keen edge, fine grain, and easy sharpenability that chefs love. This high-carbon composition delivers razor-sharp edges that hold their bite longer than most stainless alloys, while remaining easy to sharpen and maintain. The blade will naturally develop a protective blue-grey patina over time that guards against corrosion—simply wash, dry, and oil lightly after use to prevent active rust and enjoy decades of reliable service. XC75's balanced chemistry makes it an ideal choice for professional kitchens and home cooks who appreciate the superior cutting performance and traditional character of French carbon steel.