Opinel Folding Knives - Best Size

[danimalia]

Been thinking about grabbing one of these opinel knives I've seen folks recommend and wondering what the ideal size is. I'll be using mine for prinarily cutting tobacco plugs and maybe for a bit of fishing. This won't be something I really carry with me day-to-day so portability isn't the biggest concern. I was thinking about numbers 8 and 9... What do you Opinel guys think?

 

[verporchting]

When in doubt buy one of everything. Just saying.

 

[mso489]

For pipe purposes, I think the 6 1/2 inch, blade tip to end of handle, 3 inch blade, is probably most of what you need, for storage, pipe bag, and having a blade the size that could be used to trimming a little cake (though I'm not a cake builder). They are moderately priced, so you could get two sizes, but this one will probably do you.

 

[mikefu]

I really like the 6 and 7 sizes for pipe-related endeavors. Probably use the 7 most.

 

[docpierce]

I like those because the workings are simple and old school. If I'm not mistaken, they are made of carbon steel. So a thin coat of oil is advised when not in use. I also use mine for mushroom hunts. A good and inexpensive blade that holds hold a keen edge.

 

[cshubhra]

I bought a 12 when it was discussed in the forum last time.

Since then, I have used it once to test it on potatoes (which tarnished the blade slightly) and once to shave 3 bowls worth from curly block.

 

[Casual]

I use an 8 mostly, but for ropes and plugs, a 7 would do fine too. The handle on the 8 is full size, so I don’t think you get a grip benefit from moving up to the 9. Also, there is a spear point blade offered in the 8 size I like more than the standard clip blade.

 

[dkmdvm]

I love these knives! I have carried a no. 7 for a couple of years now. I bought a second one just in case I lose the one I carry. The no. 7 does everything I need from pipe duties to gardening. In my opinion, they are not built heavy enough for a larger size to be necessary. However, to each his own. By a couple sizes, they're fairly inexpensive.

 

[danimalia]

I like those because the workings are simple and old school. If I'm not mistaken, they are made of carbon steel. So a thin coat of oil is advised when not in use. I also use mine for mushroom hunts. A good and inexpensive blade that holds hold a keen edge.

They seem to be available in carbon and stainless steel. Not sure which is better.

 

[jpmcwjr]

Carbon is easier to sharpen. Stainless will, well, not stain so much....

 

[dcon]

I bought a #10 Carbon the last time the thread ran. It did not come sharp but, sharpened easy. They were out of the 7, 8, and 9 when I ordered (probably due to us ). I just use it to slice tobacco and at home. I think the three smaller sizes would be more than adequate. If you are looking for EDC, go with the 7 or smaller.

 

[scloyd]

I have a No. 08 that I keep in my backpack for camping. I would definitely buy another.

 

[davek]

Carbon is easier to sharpen. Stainless will, well, not stain so much....

Opinel uses a fine grained 12c27 steel. It takes a fine edge and sharpens as easily as the carbon steel.
The carbon is nice as well, possibly a little on the soft side.
The stainless will take nearly as fine an edge as the carbon, but not quite.
The carbon will roll the edge more easily than the stainless and not hold the edge quite as long.
This is the consensus on a knife forum I am on and I have found it to be true.
I'm a fan of 12c27 in any knife. It's a quality, budget, stainless.
The #8 is the most popular Opinel. The #6 is the smallest with a locking ring.

 

[BROBS]

I really like the 6 if you’re carrying it in your pocket at all and is plenty big to shave off a plug. The 6 I have has an olive wood handle and stainless blade.

I’ve also got this one and I like it but it’s a bit too big for pocket duty IMO. Though better for hiking or carrying in a pack.

No.08 Black Oak Folding Knife

Our classic folding pocket knife with black blade for modern look. This is the perfect knife for a more technical aesthetic, great for every day carry (EDC) and collectors alike! The blade and Virobloc locking ring have been anodized for a matte black finish. The process leaves you with a knife...

www.opinel-usa.com

The ones without a locking ring I’d never try to use to do any serious cutting. I’ve found the stainless plenty sharp, though the carbon is definitely sharper.

 

[Misanthrope]

I’ve always loved the simplicity and elegance of the Opinel designs. There’s just something classic and timeless about them.

Going off the listed blade lengths, I’d opt for an 8 as a bag knife or a 6 for pocket carry.

 

[mawnansmiff]

I have a number 9 Opinel but the most important factor, irrespective of size is the choice of blade. Stainless steel rusts less but barely holds an edge, carbon steel rusts more but holds an excellent edge.

Mine is carbon steel and has no signs of rust as it is cleaned & dried after each use.

Regards,

Jay.?

 

[retrogrouch]

I carry a number 10 with the carbon steel blade. If you keep up on the maintenance the carbon is better. If you use it only occasionally, get the stainless/inox blade.

 

[cossackjack]

I have the Opinel My First Pocket Knife, No.7

Very sharp 3.15” (8 cm) stainless steel blade.
Nice for cutting plugs & ropes, & occasionally paring hard, stubborn bowl cake.

 

[docpierce]

I really like the 6 if you’re carrying it in your pocket at all and is plenty big to shave off a plug.

I’ve also got this one and I like it but it’s a bit too big for pocket duty IMO.

Ohhhhh. That explains all the attention the ladies have been paying- everytime I tuck that number 6 in my pocket.

 

[greeneyes]

I've been considering getting a Laguiole 'Calumet' pipe tool. I'll have to sell something for the cash though. Stuff like this isn't "in the budget."