Laguiole Corkscrews, Compared

Forge de Laguiole and Chateau Laguiole are world-renowned French cutlery companies, with well-deserved reputations for quality and design.
Be advised that "Laguiole" is the name of a TOWN in France, not a brand name. ANYBODY can manufacture a corkscrew and call it "Laguiole". Lesser companies in France - or even Pakistan and China! - are cheaply manufacturing so-called "Laguioles" and selling them cheap.

• Forge de Laguiole are "authentic" in the sense they are actually made in Laguiole, France.
• Chateau Laguioles are made in Thiers, the cutlery capital of France.
• Chateau Laguioles have a fully formed "Bee" insignia on the spine; Forge de Laguioles have a "stylized", truncated triangle "Bee".
• Forge de Laguioles handles have the traditional Shepherd's Cross on the handle, which is a decorative pattern of 6 rivets placed in the shape of a cross. Chateau Laguioles do not have the Shepherd's cross or any rivets.
• Chateau Laguioles come with leather snap pouch; Forge de Laguioles come in a logo gift box. At additional cost, leather sheaths are available for Forge de Laguioles.
• Wood Boxes with custom inserts are available for both types.
• High-end Chateau Laguioles and ALL Forge de Laguioles are better choices for heavy use.

If you really want a from-"nature" "Bee" on the corkscrew, choose Chateau Laguiole. If you really want a Shepherd's cross, select Forge de Laguiole. Otherwise, consider the design, handle material, and detailing that appeals to you.