The Opinel collection at Maison Godillot

Opinel

On en a tous croisé un, planté dans un saucisson au bord d'un chemin. L'OPINEL, c'est la Savoie, un manche de hêtre, une lame qui se replie et cette petite bague qu'on tourne d'un clic. Né à la fin du XIXe siècle, il n'a presque pas changé, parce qu'il n'y avait pas grand chose à changer, un couteau simple, solide, qu'on garde toute une vie et qu'on prête sans crainte.

The No. 08 and the Virobloc

The No. 08 is the all-purpose knife in the range, neither too small nor too large, with a blade about 8.5 cm long. Its Virobloc ring, the invention that made the brand, turns with a finger; on one side it locks the blade open so you can cut without it closing on your fingers, on the other it locks it closed for the pocket. Simple, reliable, indestructible. See all pocket knives.

A knife to pass down

The OPINEL requires almost no maintenance, just a wipe, a pass on a sharpening stone when the edge dulls, and it will last for years. The beech darkens, the blade marks, and many keep theirs for decades, sometimes passed down from a relative. It’s an object of heritage as much as a tool. Also see the Japanese knife HIGONOKAMI and the accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which OPINEL number should I choose?

The No. 08 is the default choice, the most versatile, perfect for picnics, gardening, or your pocket. Smaller numbers are suited for fine tasks and small hands. Larger numbers are for more generous outdoor knives. For a single knife that does it all, choose an 08.

What exactly is the purpose of the Virobloc ring?

To secure the blade in both directions. In the open position, it prevents the blade from folding back onto your fingers while cutting. In the closed position, it locks the blade inside the handle for safe carrying. This simple and reliable double locking system is what made the brand famous.

Does the OPINEL blade rust?

Stainless steel blades are not affected by water or time and require no special care. Carbon steel versions, sharper and easier to sharpen, develop a gray patina and should be wiped after use. The type of steel is specified for each model, depending on whether you want ease of care or sharpness.

My blade is hard to open, is that normal?

It's the beech wood that has absorbed moisture and swollen around the pivot, a classic OPINEL issue. Let the knife dry, gently tap the back of the handle to free the blade, or put a drop of oil on the joint. The wood returns to its place as it dries, and the opening becomes smooth again.