Opinel

Opinel is a French folding knife brand with over 130 years of heritage, founded in 1890 by Joseph Opinel in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, Savoie. The iconic Opinel folding knife — featuring a wooden handle and the Virobloc locking ring — is one of the most recognized knives in the world: a symbol of French culture and craftsmanship that earned a place in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London as an object of design excellence. Opinel knives are trusted by millions of users across dozens of countries, from Savoyard farmers to professional chefs and collectors worldwide.

History — 130 Years of Tradition

Joseph Opinel designed his first knife in 1890 as a practical working tool for Savoyard farmers and shepherds. Simple in construction, affordable, and durable — the Opinel knife quickly gained widespread popularity throughout the Alpine region. In 1909, the Virobloc locking ring was introduced — a rotating collar that secures the blade in the open position — a feature that was genuinely innovative in the folding knife market of the time. In 1985, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London recognized the Opinel knife as one of the most beautifully designed utilitarian objects of the 20th century. Today, the factory in Faverges, Savoie produces over 7 million knives per year, with the brand represented in more than 70 countries.

Numbering and Sizes

Opinel knives are available in sizes No. 2 through No. 13, where the number roughly corresponds to the blade length in centimeters: No. 6 (7 cm) is a popular EDC carry, No. 8 (8.5 cm) is the "standard" — the best-selling size — and No. 10 (10 cm) suits hunting and kitchen use. Every model is available in stainless steel (inox) or carbon steel (carbone), with handles in beech, olive, walnut, maple, and other wood species, as well as laminate or Micarta in outdoor variants.

Opinel at Militaria.pl

At Militaria.pl you'll find a full selection of Opinel knives — legendary French folding knives backed by 130 years of tradition. Whether you're looking for a classic EDC knife for camping, an elegant gift for a cooking enthusiast, or a first knife for a young user, Opinel has a model to fit every need. It's simply one of those knives everyone should own. Browse available sizes and steel options at Militaria.pl.