XC90 Carbon Steel
The carbon steel used by Opinel is an unalloyed steel with a high carbon content, which achieves excellent durability after thermal treatment. This ensures perfect edge retention, as well as high wear resistance and easy resharpening. However, carbon steel has low resistance to corrosion caused by moisture. Therefore, certain precautions must be observed: never store your knife in damp places, especially not in the dishwasher. Clean the blade with an oiled cloth after use and regularly oil the blade and joints.
Yatagan Blade
The traditional Opinel blade is called Yatagan. The shape is inspired by a Turkish saber with a raised tip. The blade has been ground to an exclusive, convex profile, guaranteeing robustness and easy resharpening.
Handle
Beech is the most common wood used for Opinel knife handles. The beech wood comes from France, is hard, resistant, and easy to work with. It has a homogeneous appearance and its light color varies from yellowish to pinkish. The wood can be recognized by its many small, dark streaks. The handle has been varnished to be better protected from moisture and dirt.
Safety Ring (Locking Ring)
The Virobloc safety ring was invented by Marcel Opinel in 1955. It is present on all folding knives from model N°06 upwards. The Virobloc is cut from stainless steel and consists of two parts: a fixed part and a sliding part. In addition to locking the blade in the open position (safe use), it is now also possible to lock the blade in the closed position (safe transport).
- Overall length 16.5 cm
- Handle length 9.3 cm
- Blade length 7.2 cm
- Weight 27 g