Opinel

Its timeless design, sharp stainless steel or carbon steel blade and Virobloc locking system make it a trusted tool for hikers, DIY enthusiasts, gardeners and traditional knife enthusiasts alike.

The Opinel knife: an essential for hiking and everyday use

Easy to slip into a pocket or bag, the Opinel folding knife accompanies outdoor outings and household tasks alike. Available in different sizes (N°6 to N°13), sometimes in adventure or outdoor versions, it appeals for its comfortable grip, excellent cutting edge and dependable reliability.

Why choose an Opinel knife?

Opinel's success rests on a simple formula passed down through generations:

• French quality: made in Chambéry, Savoie.
• Iconic design: beechwood, hornbeam or polymer handle, depending on the version.
• Simplicity and efficiency: a versatile tool for all uses.
• Blade cutting quality: generally stainless steel, sometimes carbon steel.
• Comfortable grip and low weight.
• Safety: Virobloc ring locks the blade open or closed.
• Affordable price: excellent value for money for a durable knife.

Opinel, a French knife that became a global benchmark

The Opinel story began in Savoie in 1890, when Joseph Opinel designed a simple, robust, affordable folding knife. Quickly adopted by craftspeople, farmers and local residents, it gradually gained a reputation far beyond France.

It has been made in Savoie from the beginning: until 1916 in Albiez-le-Vieux near Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, then from 1917 in Cognin, on the outskirts of Chambéry. From 1973, production gradually moved to a new factory in Chambéry. The headquarters have also been in Chambéry since 2003; only safety ring manufacturing remains in Cognin.

Today, Opinel is sold in many countries and remains one of the best-known symbols of French knife-making expertise. Despite international success, the brand remains deeply attached to its Savoyard roots and family heritage.

The Virobloc system, a signature Opinel innovation

One of the brand's best-known innovations is the Virobloc system.

This safety ring locks the blade open to improve safety during use. On many models, it also keeps the blade closed during carrying.

Simple and effective, this device contributes greatly to Opinel knives' reputation for reliability and is one of the brand's technical signatures.

Opinel knives for hiking and outdoor activities

Lightweight and versatile, Opinel knives fit naturally into a hiker's equipment.

They handle many useful outdoor tasks: meal preparation, cutting cord, small DIY jobs and organising camp. Their compact size makes them easy to carry in a pocket, pouch or backpack.

Campers, light bushcrafters and travellers also value their ease of use and everyday reliability.

The different Opinel ranges available at RayonRando

Today, the Opinel range comprises several product families for different uses.

Traditional folding knives remain the brand's most iconic models. They appeal for their simplicity and effectiveness, for everyday use or hiking alike.

The brand also offers models with stainless steel blades, particularly valued for easy maintenance. Other knives focus more on outdoor activities, camping or light bushcraft while retaining the spirit behind Opinel's success.

This variety lets everyone find a knife suited to their activity while benefiting from the brand's recognised quality.

French expertise recognised for over 130 years

Since its creation, Opinel has drawn on expertise passed down through generations. This continuity largely explains users' trust in the brand.

Knife manufacturing rests on a constant search for balance between tradition and modernity. Materials evolve and uses diversify, but the aim stays the same: a simple, reliable, durable knife.

This approach has helped Opinel endure for decades while retaining a special place among hiking, nature and outdoor enthusiasts.