This Affordable, Robust Multi-Tool Knife Has Over 130 Years of Heritage Backing It Up

In operation for over 136 years, Opinel is undoubtedly one of the most iconic, enduring knifemaking brands in the world. And while the family-owned outfit has an extremely distinct style and iconic mechanisms, it has more recently been expanding into new venues.

While the latest launch, the Opinel No.09 Ocean Folding Knife, maintains the brand’s signature silhouette, it adds a few unique naval multi-tool upgrades. And yet, it is still incredibly affordable.

Opinel

A pirate’s knife for me

As its name suggests, this knife is designed for use out on the ocean. Interestingly, that’s considered one of the harshest environments a knife can exist in, as saltwater is a fast track to corrosion (AKA rust).

While a normal Opinel might not weather such a locale, this one is designed to take a beating and keep right on chugging along. To that end, it gets a fiberglass-reinforced handle, as opposed to a classic wooden one.

Opinel

This maintains lightness while improving overall stability (wood warps when exposed to moisture) and providing a better platform for additional tool attachments. It also includes the brand’s signature Virobloc safety ring (a proprietary locking mechanism) for added security.

That handle is mated to a stainless steel blade, which the brand says requires no special maintenance, despite its intended usage on the ocean. (That said, I’d still recommend rinsing it off with fresh water after using it, just in case.)

Opinel

Reliable first mate

Calling this a knife doesn’t really do it justice. Yes, it is primarily a knife, but it also has some additional functionality that puts it more in the realm of multi-tools.

The blade, for instance, has partial serrations, making it more versatile than normal (and especially useful for cutting lines). It also has an integrated shackle key, which turns it into a kind of marine wrench.

Opinel

But the handle also gets some additional functionality. Toward the butt, there’s a folt-out marlin key, an essential tool that allows sailors to loosen stubborn knots, splice lines and provide leverage.

It also has an integrated 110 dB whistle, which is ideal for emergencies and signaling other folks out on the water.

Best of all, you get all of that (and more) for just $65, making this knife an incredible value for your money.

Opinel

Availability and pricing

The Opinel No.09 Ocean Folding Knife is now available on the brand’s site in three distinct colors for just $65 apiece.

Opinel

Opinel No.09 Ocean Folding Knife

• $65 at Opinel

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