Opinel No. 08

This is truly a classic. Opinel's No. 08 first saw the daylight back in the late 1800's when Joseph Opinel wanted to create a practical EDC. Today about 15 million Opinel knives are sold per year. Opinel manufactures several models and the original No. 08 is still in production as a part of the Tradition series.




This knife has a handle made of Beechwood. As an option also Rosewood, Bone or Stag handles are available. The blade is made of stainless 12C27 Sandvik steel. The carbon XC90 and a Damascus steel is also available. I like the down-to-earth feel of this folder. The simple yet stylish design makes this a blade suited for most situations. A thin clip point blade with a slight convex edge. The folding mechanism is spring less and the lock consists of the tight Virobloc. The No. 08's tight lock, thin blade and comfortable handle actually make this folder quite a good wood carver. And as the folder is so light it's very comfortable to carry in your pocket although it's size.




Opinel is with no doubt the French equivalent to the Swede's Mora knife; all households have one. It's clear that the concept of mixing; quality, simplicity, good price and tradition, is a smash hit.




Specs
Manufacturer: Opinel, France
Model: Tradition No. 08
Blade material: Stainless 12C27 Sandvik steel with 0,40 % Carbon
Blade length: 83 mm
Blade thickness: 1,7 mm
Knife length (closed/open): 111 mm/193 mm
Handle material: Beech with a natural finish
Handle thickness: 21 mm
Knife weight: 46 g
Price: 139 SEK (Sweden 2014)
Supplier: J.A. Sundqvist AB

You can read a more detailed article on the Opinel Tradition-series in the Swedish magazine Vapentidningen No.. 1 – 2015. If you don't already have the magazine you can find it (paper or web) via Vapentidningen's homepage

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