Opinel Classic Originals Pocket Knife Review
When it comes to knives, finding the perfect balance between functionality, durability, and design can be a challenge.
Opinel, a renowned French knife manufacturer, has been producing high-quality knives since 1890, and the Opinel Classic Originals Knife is no exception.
With its long-standing reputation for excellence, this pocket knife has stood the test of time.
In this blog post, we delve into the features and benefits of this knife, providing an in-depth analysis of its performance, versatility, and craftsmanship.
What Makes a Great Pocket Knife?
A great pocket knife is characterised by several different features.
Finding the perfect one that suits your needs and preferences will ensure it becomes an indispensable everyday carry tool.
The factors to look for when choosing a knife are:
- Blade Construction: Specifically, the choice of materials. Carbon steel blades are popular for their superior edge retention and durability. Stainless steel blades, on the other hand, provide excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for outdoor use
- Fit & Feel: The handle should be comfortable to hold and offer a secure grip
- Locking Mechanisms: Different designs are available, and you should select one that is most suited to ensuring the safety and ease of use for its intended purpose
- Weight: As it is intended to be carried in your pocket, the weight of the knife is important to consider. Anything too bulky will become more of a hindrance, than a help
- Sharpness: Of course, a good pocket knife should be super sharp and able to handle the intended tasks
- Durability: The tool should be built to last, ensuring easy maintenance and the ability to be relied upon
- Brand Reputation: Is the brand known for its quality and purpose-driven products? If so, you can trust them to provide you with a decent pocket knife.
What are the Main Uses of Pocket Knives?
Pocket knives are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of purposes.
With their compact size and convenient folding design, these knives are incredibly practical and can be easily carried and accessed when needed. Whether you are exploring the great outdoors or simply tackling everyday tasks at work or home, a knife can come in handy in numerous situations.
Here are some main uses of pocket knives:
- Outdoor activities: These knives are ideal for various countryside activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. They can be used for cutting ropes, wood carving, opening cans, preparing food, and even as a makeshift tool to repair gear or equipment. An Opinel knife even made it onto the list of the best camping knives by Outdoor Life!
- Workplace: These useful tools are effective for cutting boxes, opening packages, stripping wires, and even for minor repairs or adjustments. From construction sites to office environments, these functional knives are practical tools to have on hand
- Emergency situations: These tools can be lifesavers during emergencies. They can be used to cut seatbelts, break glass, or provide first aid assistance in situations where time is crucial
- Everyday tasks: An efficient tool to have around the home, these knives are great for everyday tasks like opening letters or packages, cutting fruits and vegetables, or even trimming loose threads on clothing.
Key Features of the Opinel Classic Originals Knife
The Opinel Classic Originals Knife is a top choice for anyone needing a new knife.
Its key attributes are:
- Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel Yatagan blade (for stainless steel option)
- High-carbon steel Yatagan blade (for Carbon option)
- Virobloc Safety system
- Varnished Beech wood Handle
- Range of sizes.
It's also worth mentioning that this particular Opinel knife does come in a non-locking version.
Pros and Cons of the Opinel Classic Originals Knife
There are many benefits to owning Opinel knives.
The advantages of this particular style are listed out below.
Pros:
- Secure Locking: The Virobloc safety system ensures that the blade remains locked in both the open and closed positions, providing enhanced safety during use and storage
- Comfortable Grip: The varnished beechwood handle offers a comfortable and ergonomic grip, making it easy to handle and control
- Range of Blade Sizes: This allows customers to find the exact blade size they are after. Plus, the blade length puts them as accepted for everyday legal carry under knife laws
- Blade Options: Available in both robust stainless steel and popular carbon steel blades, this gives users the choice between the blade material that best suits their needs.
- Sharp Blades: These knives are known for their exceptional sharpness, making them perfect for slicing and cutting tasks. Plus, there's peace of mind knowing it is also a locking blade
- Affordability: There's no denying that this knife is great value for money and is a great option for anyone on a budget
- Versatility: It can be used both indoors and outdoors, when fishing or when sewing, when camping or when box cutting, or even as a fruit and vegetable peeler!
- Compact Size: This is a great pocket knife for taking with you anywhere and everywhere. Its lightweight design means it slips comfortably into a pocket or bag, not causing any fuss or inconvenience.
On the other hand, there are some points to take into consideration.
Cons:
- Safety System: The Virobloc safety system, while effective, may take some time to get used to deploying and locking the blade in place compared to other locking mechanisms
- Simple Design: There are no frills with this knife, as it focuses purely on the blade, but some users may miss having additional tools or features.
Is the Opinel Classic Originals Knife Right for You?
Thanks to its versatile uses, this knife from Opinel is a practical tool for various situations. From camping and hiking to everyday tasks like cutting fruits and vegetables, this knife is always up to the challenge.
Safety is a top priority with this pocket knife, with both safe usage and safe transport effectively catered for with the locking mechanisms. Plus, the compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and store.
The varnished beech handle not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides a comfortable grip for precision handling. Furthermore, the high-quality materials used for the blades make for a tool that will last.
If you're in the market for an affordable and reliable knife, this Opinel knife is definitely worth considering. With its durability, safety features, and comfortable handle, it's a tool that will serve you well for years to come.
Alternative Pocket Knives
Pocket knives come in different types, each with its own unique features and benefits.
When it comes to alternative pocket knives, there are several options worth considering alongside the Opinel Classic Originals Knife. Exploring other choices in the Opinel knives range is always a good idea, as there is a great selection to suit various preferences and needs.
Other fantastic products to take a look at are:
Whether you need a sharp blade for everyday tasks such as opening packages or cutting rope, or you're out in the wilderness and require a reliable tool for survival situations, pocket knives are incredibly versatile.
With a wide range of styles and designs available, from quality folding knives to cutting-edge multi-tools, there is a knife out there to suit everyone's needs.
Summary
Overall, the Opinel Classic Originals Knife has truly proven itself as a reliable and timeless tool.
Its simple yet effective design, high-quality materials, and exceptional craftsmanship make it a standout choice in the world of pocket knives.
It is a classic example of a knife that combines the functionality, durability, and design that makes a pocket knife so great.
