Opinel No. 8 Pocket Knife with Oak Wood Handle – Stainless Steel Folding Knife
Discover the iconic Opinel No. 8 pocket knife, a timeless French classic since 1890. This folding knife features an 8.5cm stainless steel Yatagan blade paired with a beautiful oak wood handle, creating the perfect balance of tradition and functionality. Equipped with the legendary Virobloc safety ring that securely locks the blade open or closed, this pocket knife is ideal for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, camping, hiking, and picnics. Selected by London’s V&A Museum as one of the 100 most beautiful designs in the world and featured in the Larousse dictionary since 1989, the Opinel No. 8 remains an indispensable companion for generations of enthusiasts worldwide.
Size No. 8 – The Perfect EDC
The No. 8 represents the most popular size in the Opinel range, offering the ideal balance between portability and functionality. With an 8.5cm blade, it’s substantial enough for serious cutting tasks yet compact enough for comfortable everyday carry in pocket or rucksack. This versatile size suits the vast majority of users and has become the standard choice for outdoor enthusiasts globally.
8.5cm Yatagan Blade
Features the distinctive Yatagan blade profile with its curved cutting edge that tapers to a sharp point. This traditional shape, inspired by Turkish sabres, provides exceptional cutting performance for a wide range of tasks. The curved belly excels at slicing whilst the pointed tip offers precision for detailed work. The blade length proves perfect for preparing food, whittling, cutting cordage, and countless outdoor tasks.
Martensitic Stainless Steel
Crafted from high-quality martensitic stainless steel that offers excellent edge retention, superior corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. This steel composition ensures the blade remains sharp through regular use whilst resisting rust even in damp conditions. The stainless construction requires minimal maintenance – simply wipe clean and dry after use without worrying about oxidation.
Premium Oak Wood Handle
The beautiful oak wood handle showcases attractive natural grain patterns that make each knife unique. Oak’s medium-brown colouring with distinctive grain creates a more sophisticated aesthetic than standard beech handles. The hardwood provides excellent durability whilst the natural material offers comfortable grip and warmth in hand. The varnished finish protects the wood against moisture and soiling.
Virobloc Safety Ring System
Features Opinel’s patented Virobloc double safety ring that revolutionised folding knife safety. Twist the collar to lock the blade securely when open, preventing accidental closure during use. Twist again to lock the blade safely closed when not in use, preventing accidental opening in pocket or bag. This ingenious mechanism provides unmatched security.
Secure Blade Locking
The Virobloc ring locks the blade firmly in the open position, creating rock-solid stability during cutting tasks. This prevents dangerous blade collapse that can occur with inferior locking mechanisms. The secure lock inspires confidence when applying significant cutting pressure or working with tougher materials.
Safe Closed Position Lock
When rotated to the closed position, the Virobloc ring prevents the blade from accidentally deploying in your pocket or bag. This safety feature proves particularly valuable during transport and storage, providing peace of mind that the sharp blade won’t unexpectedly open. Ideal for carrying safely alongside other items.
Lightweight and Portable
The slender profile and lightweight construction make this knife ideal for everyday carry without adding bulk or weight to pocket or bag. Slip it into jeans pocket, jacket pocket, or rucksack compartment and forget it’s there until needed. The compact design ensures it’s always available when required.
Comfortable Ergonomic Grip
The gently tapered wooden handle fits comfortably in various hand sizes, providing secure grip without pressure points. The natural wood’s slightly textured surface ensures purchase even when hands are damp. The elongated shape accommodates different grip styles whether performing delicate or forceful cutting tasks.
Multi-Purpose Versatility
Excels at outdoor tasks including preparing food during picnics and camping, cutting fruits and cheese, slicing sausage and bread, whittling wood, cutting cordage and packaging, preparing kindling, and countless daily tasks. This truly is a one-knife solution for outdoor adventures and everyday situations requiring a reliable cutting tool.
Perfect for Outdoor Adventures
An essential companion for hiking, camping, fishing, foraging, and nature walks. The stainless blade resists corrosion in damp outdoor environments whilst the compact size makes it easy to carry. Prepare trail snacks, cut fishing line, fashion tent stakes, or handle countless outdoor situations with confidence.
Ideal for Picnics and Meals
The traditional French approach to outdoor dining always includes an Opinel knife. Slice baguettes, cut cheese and charcuterie, prepare fruits, and share meals with friends using this elegant tool. The stainless blade is food-safe and easy to clean, whilst the oak handle adds rustic charm to al fresco dining.
Excellent for Food Preparation
The sharp Yatagan blade glides through various foods with ease. Cut fresh fruits and vegetables, slice cured meats and cheeses, portion bread, and handle other food preparation tasks. The stainless steel construction ensures hygienic use with food whilst the sharp edge provides clean cuts without crushing delicate ingredients.
Sharp Out of the Box
Arrives with a factory-sharp edge ready for immediate use. Opinel’s grinding and honing process ensures consistent sharpness across their production. The keen edge demonstrates the quality manufacturing standards that have made Opinel famous. Users consistently praise the impressive initial sharpness.
Easy to Sharpen and Maintain
The stainless steel composition accepts sharpening readily using whetstones, ceramic rods, or leather strops. The thin blade geometry requires minimal material removal during sharpening, making maintenance straightforward. Simply wipe clean after use and occasionally sharpen to maintain optimal performance. No special care or oiling required.
Corrosion Resistant
The stainless steel blade resists rust and corrosion even when exposed to moisture, making this knife reliable in various weather conditions. Unlike carbon steel alternatives requiring careful maintenance, this knife tolerates occasional dampness without developing rust spots. Perfect for unpredictable British weather and coastal environments.
Made in France Since 1890
Manufactured in Chambéry, Savoie, in the French Alps where Joseph Opinel first created his legendary knife design. The company employs over 150 skilled craftspeople who maintain the same commitment to quality and simplicity that made Opinel famous. Each knife represents authentic French craftsmanship and mountain heritage spanning five generations.
Iconic Design Heritage
Selected by London’s V&A Museum as one of the 100 most beautiful objects in the world, recognising its perfect marriage of form and function. Entered the Larousse dictionary in 1989, joining the pantheon of quintessentially French objects. Cited in numerous literary and musical works, the Opinel knife transcends mere utility to become a cultural icon.
Sustainable Manufacturing
Opinel’s commitment to sustainability includes using proximity and recyclable raw materials (wood and steel), recyclable cardboard packaging, heating the factory by burning wood chips from handle production, and zero water discharge. These practices ensure minimal environmental impact whilst maintaining exceptional product quality.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Built to last for decades with proper care, this knife becomes a faithful companion through countless adventures. The robust construction, quality materials, and simple mechanism ensure reliable performance through years of regular use. Many Opinel knives serve multiple generations, becoming treasured family heirlooms.
Perfect Gift Choice
An excellent gift for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, hikers, fishermen, gardeners, or anyone appreciating quality tools and French craftsmanship. The timeless design, affordable price, and genuine usefulness make this an inspired present. The oak handle version offers enhanced sophistication for gift-giving occasions.
Eco-Friendly Cardboard Packaging
Ships in recyclable cardboard packaging that minimises plastic waste whilst protecting the knife during transit. The sustainable packaging reflects Opinel’s environmental values and reduces packaging waste. The simple, elegant presentation suits both personal purchases and gift-giving.
Care and Maintenance
Wipe blade clean after use and dry thoroughly to maintain the stainless steel’s corrosion resistance. Occasionally apply food-safe mineral oil or linseed oil to the oak handle to preserve its beauty and prevent drying. Store with blade closed and Virobloc ring engaged. Sharpen periodically using whetstone or ceramic rod to maintain optimal edge.
