This Knife Has Stayed the Same for 135 Years: Opinel No.08 Review

The Opinel No.08 Inox: A Timeless Companion for Outdoor Adventures

For the past six years, I’ve relied on the Opinel No.08 Inox as my go-to knife for a variety of outdoor activities, from short hikes to long solo backpacking trips and even mountaineering adventures. While I own several knives for different purposes, most of the time, I don’t need to split wood or dress game. What I want is a folding knife that’s so light I can easily stash it away and forget about it until needed. A locking blade no longer than 3 inches is ideal, and if it happens to be beautiful, that’s just an added bonus.

Made in France since 1890, the Opinel has remained largely unchanged over the years. The company introduced a blade-locking mechanism in 1955, offered stainless steel blades in 1986, and modified the locking mechanism in 2000 to also lock the blade closed. Despite these updates, the design of the knife, including its blade and handle, has stayed remarkably consistent. Some might attribute this to tradition, but I believe it’s because Joseph Opinel created something near perfect in 1890, and there’s no need to change a winning formula.

In short, the Opinel No.08 Inox ($19) is an excellent choice for budget-friendly folding knives that offer a sharp blade, minimal weight, and an affordable price point. While there are knives made with more exotic materials and fancier handles, none of them match the value packed into this French-made folding knife. Even after 135 years of knifemaking advancements, simplicity still proves to be the best option.

Design & Features

Knives often arrive duller than they should, but the Opinel No.08 Inox consistently arrives razor-sharp out of the box. This knife punches above its price point in every aspect of its construction, starting with the blade. The blade profile is called Yatagan, which is inspired by a traditional Turkish saber. While the exact classification may be debated, what matters is how it performs. It’s nimble for delicate tasks, such as preparing meals or whittling wood during downtime.

The convex grind requires some skill to sharpen compared to a flat grind, but it offers precision and performance. The blade is made of Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel, which provides good rust resistance and ease of resharpening. However, it’s not the premium choice for those seeking the highest edge retention.

Choosing the Right Size

Opinel offers a range of sizes, from the small No.02 (1.36-inch blade) to the large No.13 (8.75-inch blade). I prefer the No.08 with its 3.28-inch blade, which strikes the perfect balance between utility and portability. The No.05, with a 2.36-inch blade, was reportedly Picasso’s favorite, but I find the No.08 more versatile for my needs.

Simple Locking Mechanism

The Virobloc locking ring is a simple yet effective mechanism that keeps the blade open during use. Once the blade is open, you lock it by turning a steel ring at the base. While this mechanism is easy to use, it can collect dirt and grit, making it slightly harder to turn. However, it’s easy to clean with a nail clipper, shoelace end, or twig.

Stainless or Carbon Steel?

The Opinel No.08 Inox features Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and easy to maintain. For everyday use, especially in the wilderness, stainless steel is a practical choice. Carbon steel holds an edge longer but requires more maintenance, such as oiling after each use. I prefer stainless steel for its convenience, especially when hiking or camping.

Not So Burly

While the Opinel No.08 isn’t the strongest knife, its lightweight design makes it ideal for hiking and backpacking. At 1.6 ounces, it’s significantly lighter than other folding knives like the Buck 110 LT (3.2 ounces). For most trail tasks, such as cutting food or trimming gauze, the Opinel is more than sufficient. However, for heavier tasks like splitting wood, a fixed-blade knife would be more appropriate.

Conclusion

The Opinel No.08 Inox is a timeless and practical tool that offers exceptional value for its price. It’s not the knife for those who seek luxury or exclusivity, but for those who appreciate functionality and reliability, it’s a true people’s knife. With its affordability, durability, and versatility, the Opinel No.08 Inox is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.