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Buyer’s Guide to Choosing Your Opinel Knife
Carbon vs Stainless Steel
Opinel blades come in two options: traditional carbon steel, which sharpens quickly and develops a patina with use, or stainless steel, which resists rust and requires less upkeep. Carbon is ideal for those who enjoy maintaining their blade, while stainless suits anyone wanting an easy-care knife for everyday outdoor use.
Size Guide (No.2–No.12)
The numbered system can be confusing at first. The No.2 and No.4 are tiny keyring-sized knives, handy for light tasks and craft work. Mid-range sizes like No.6–No.8 are versatile pocket companions for camping, food prep, and whittling. Larger options like the No.10 or No.12 give extra strength for heavier cutting or garden use.
Popular Picks
The Opinel No.8 is by far the most popular all-rounder, balancing size, weight, and versatility. For foragers, the Opinel Mushroom Knife with its curved blade and brush is a must-have tool. Gardeners often prefer the Opinel Garden range, designed for pruning and everyday outdoor jobs.
Care & Sharpening
Always hand-wash and dry your Opinel thoroughly—never leave it damp or put it in the dishwasher. Apply a light food-safe oil occasionally to protect the wood and blade. To sharpen, use a fine stone at around 20°, moving smoothly from heel to tip for a durable edge.
Frequently asked questions
Are Opinel knives legal to carry in the UK?
UK overview: non-locking, sub-3" folding knives can be carried without a “good reason”; locking knives (e.g., many Opinel Virobloc models) require a good reason in public. Always check current law. Please refer to goverment guidelines and laws here .
Where are Opinel knives manufactured?
All Opinel knives are still made in France—primarily in Chambéry, Savoie. Some garden tools and kitchen variants are made by trusted partners outside France, but design and quality oversight remain rooted in Savoie heritag
Which Opinel size is right for me?
Opinel knives span from the tiny No. 2 (for keyring utility) to the giant No. 13 (22 cm blade). The No. 8 is the most popular, offering a perfect balance of versatility and portability; Nos. 4, 6, and 10 also remain consistent favourites for everyday use
Where is the wood for Opinel handles sourced?
About 95% of handle wood comes from France, supporting local forestry and craftsmanship.
What’s the difference between carbon steel and stainless steel Opinel blades?
Carbon steel blades sharpen beautifully and cleanly, but require regular oiling to prevent rust and patina. Stainless blades, crafted from Sandvik 12C27 steel, resist corrosion and are lower-maintenance—ideal for everyday outdoor use
Why is my Opinel folding knife sometimes hard to open?
Changes in humidity can cause the wooden handle to swell or shrink, affecting how the blade moves. To fix this, leave the knife in a dry place for a day or two, or pop it into a sealed bag with uncooked rice to gently draw out moisture and smooth the action
How do I care for my Opinel knife to keep it in top shape?
Carbon steel blades: Dry immediately after use and lightly oil them to fend off rust. Never leave them damp or soak them in water.
Stainless steel blades: Easier to manage, but still tidy them by hand-washing after use. Avoid the dishwasher and harsh cleaners.
General care—drying and light oiling—is covered in their official maintenance guide
How do I sharpen an Opinel knife safely?
Use a fine-grit sharpening stone (diamond or natural) and maintain about a 20° angle from heel to tip. Remove the burr by lightly stroking the reverse side, and finish by honing both sides with light pressure. This gets the edge both sharp and durable.
Can I put my Opinel knife in the dishwasher?
No—especially if it has a wooden handle. Dishwasher cleaning can warp the handle and damage steel parts. For fixed kitchen blades, occasional dishwasher use might be OK, but even then it’s better to hand-wash them for long-term care