The venerable Opinel No. 8 remains one of the most popular traditional folding pocket knives you can have in your everyday carry. Its combination of a high-performance blade with classy styling make it a top choice. And now, with the new Black Oak edition of the No. 8, it takes on a more modern look with its new blacked-out blade and dark hardware. The high-contrast blade mixed with a premium black oak wood handle makes a classic knife even more unassuming for a discreet, no-frills EDC.
The stand-out feature of the Black Oak edition is definitely the black blade and ring lock hardware, which contrasts nicely with the dark-veined French black oak wood grain handle. The blade is made of treated 12C27 Sandvik stainless steel, and at 3.25” long with its extremely thin razor edge, it’s ready to take on all tasks. And while 12C27 steel is very corrosion-resistant, the dark treatment helps stave off the effects of even the worst the elements can bring to bear on your trusty EDC knife. The black oak handle isn’t just for show either, its high tannin content makes it resistant to wear and tear from age, including insect and fungi growth. And at the handle lies the Virobloc ring lock system—also treated with a black color—which lets you keep the blade open during use and keep it closed when its in your pockets for safety.
If you’re looking to pick up an Opinel knife for the first time, or if you just want to shake things up a bit with its more modern bent, consider picking up the new Black Oak edition of the No. 8. It’s a sharp knife with a modern twist to a traditional style that won’t raise any eyebrows when it comes time to use it everyday. Check it out at the link below.
