I Keep This $17 Folding Knife in My Bag at All Times for Picnics, Camping, and Snack Time

I’ll be honest: I originally bought the Opinel folding knife because I thought it was beautiful. I had no idea that it would go on to become something I use every day. From prepping vegetables to opening packages on-the-go, I can’t imagine a better knife for cutting, slicing, and paring.

Opinel No. 8 Stainless Steel Folding Knife

While I have my essential knives at home, the Opinel folding knife is my one-and-only out-and-about knife. Due to its foldability and safety locking mechanism, I’m never worried about reaching into my bag and hurting myself…I couldn’t say that for a paring knife. Plus, the blade has stayed impressively sharp over eight years of slicing cheese at the park and cutting potatoes at the campground.

Why It’s Great

It Folds!

As someone who’s often eating and cooking outside, the Opinel No. 8 folding knife makes meals in the great outdoors more enjoyable. No more trying to stab through a block of cheese with a plastic knife and or wrapping a blade from home in a towel to bring camping (sorry, knife gods). When folded, the knife measures just 4.25 inches (that’s shorter than an iPhone), so it barely takes up any space.

It’s Easy to Transport

Since this knife has a metal ring that locks the blade into its folded position, I never have to worry about accidentally cutting myself as I rummage around my bag. This same locking mechanism keeps the blade open, so when I’m slicing, I can trust that the blade won’t wiggle or close. Another bonus is that it’s very easy to open. My long-running struggle with other folding knives is that they can be difficult maneuver, to the point of fearing that I may cut myself in the struggle. The blade on the Opinel knife smoothly slides open so I can get to prepping without hesitation.

It’s Simple to Clean

I love bringing this knife along on hikes and biking trips because it’s easy to wipe the blade quickly with a paper towel and fold it up until I’m able to wash it more thoroughly with soap and water. The blade is made with Sandvik stainless steel and has never never shown signs of wear or rusting despite my frequent use…and delayed washings.

It’s Versatile

The Opinel folding knife comes in a wide range of sizes, from No. 2 (under two inches when folded!) to No. 12 (6.3 in inches when closed). My go-to, and the one that started it all, is the No. 8, which has a 3.28-inch blade and measures at 7.59 inches when opened. The beechwood handle is a delight to hold as it’s carved to fit the curve of a closed palm. Its ergonomic design combined with its super sharp blade makes it super efficient whether I’m chopping onions for a campside chili or slicing into charcuterie at the park.

FAQs

How do you clean the Opinel folding knife?

You should only hand wash your Opinel knife. It should never be fully immersed in water since the handle is made of wood. It’s also important to dry the blade fully before closing to keep it in the best condition.

Is the Opinel folding knife safe?

Yes! The Opinel folding knife comes with a safety ring that turns to lock the blade. That way, you can ensure it stays closed or open.

Does the Opinel folding knife have a warranty?

The knife comes with a limited lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects.

Can I use the Opinel folding knife for camping?

The campsite is one of the best places for using the Opinel folding knife. It’s powerful and very sharp, yet offers dexterity and is easy to clean.

Why We’re The Experts

• An Uong is a Commerce Writer for Serious Eats and Food & Wine.
• An is very proud of the knife collection she’s built over the past few years and her Opinel folding knife is one of her favorites.