French knifemaker Raphael Durand studied at the University of Lyon and now runs a forge in Thiers. He transposes traditional designs into modern concepts, such as the classic Navaja knives from the Mediterranean. This results in exceptional classic knives made with modern materials and mechanisms.
How did you first come into contact with knives?
Just like most little children back then. I was about seven years old and my grandfather gave me a classic Opinel No. 7. I quickly felt like a real adventurer and was, of course, extremely proud.
When did you make your first knife yourself?
I was a member of Excalibur, a medieval sword fighting association from Lyon, France, and practiced with historical swords and daggers there from an early age. I made my first knife in 1998.
And since when have you been working as a Knife maker?
Since 2001 I have worked full-time as a custom knifemaker.
How did this happen?
I studied literature in Lyon and originally wanted to become a teacher. After graduating, however, I quickly realized that this wouldn't make me happy, so I tried many different things instead. Knives have always fascinated me, and eventually I was able to turn my passion into my profession.
Did you have any support?
Henri Viallon helped me a great deal on my journey. He was the first French Damascus steel smith at the time and crafted unique custom knives in Thiers. We met in the 1990s and he remained my mentor for many years.
What is your greatest talent as a knifemaker?
I believe my greatest talent lies in combining simple and reliable constructions with elegant designs. I particularly like simple and clear designs with strong fit and finish.
What inspires you to do this?
I love crafting knives with the best possible qualities in design, function, and mechanics. I want to ensure that a simple knife can handle all everyday tasks as a daily companion. This ambition inspires me to constantly re-evaluate and improve my designs.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The most exciting steps are definitely those after the components have been cut to shape, just before heat treatment . The mechanical adjustments that gradually transform a simple piece of metal into a knife never cease to fascinate me. Grinding is also a very enjoyable part of my work, as it transforms the steel blank into a superb blade.
Where should you start if you want to make your own knife?
All you really need is courage and patience. Then you buy the best drill and the best grinder you can afford and just start experimenting. The rest will come with time.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I get up early and supervise the children before school. From 8:30 a.m. onwards, I'm in the workshop. In the morning, I complete all the work steps that require absolute concentration, such as sharpening the blades or making adjustments. In the afternoon, I have time to cut and finish the handles and all the end caps.
Can I simply order a custom knife from you?
Not at the moment, I want to work through my full order book and fulfill my obligations first.
What are you working on at the moment?
I'm currently working on new variations of my existing designs, such as a slipjoint version of the Frelon or another Kerberos. Of course, I'm also working on completely new projects, but I don't want to reveal anything about those just yet.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
No, not knives in general. But sometimes I get tired of the daily pressure placed on self-employed craftsmen.
What about your wife, does she share your passion for knives?
Yes, I am truly very lucky! My wonderful wife not only shares my passion for knives, she even makes the leather sheaths for my knives. And she now also produces custom leather sheaths for other knifemakers.
Do you even have time for anything other than work?
Unfortunately, I don't see my children as often as I would like. Therefore, I try to spend as much time with them as possible after work.
What do you do in your free time to relax?
I'm a bookworm and love books and comics, usually with good music playing. But I often get sidetracked and start thinking about my next project.
Do you have any hobbies that have nothing to do with knives?
Absolutely! I release excess energy through Savate, a French form of boxing with fists and feet. Besides, my old Jeep needs a lot of TLC.
What are you absolutely unable to do?
I have more of a problem with things I don't want to do, especially when someone has asked me to and I can't get out of it.
What would you even get up in the middle of the night for?
I actually try to avoid that; I need my sleep. If my mind is too full to fall asleep, I usually find some peace again by reading.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our customers?
Stay sharp! And respect knives and their makers; it might be more work than you think ;)