I was looking at Opinel knives watching a couple factory videos and this video caught my eye. I'm not a rugged outdoors man but when I was 8 my eye found a #7 in this old mans store, he had fishing poles, pipes for Tabaco, maps, books about old trappers and hunters, just a cool old store. The old man would smoke a pipe so the store had a great smell to it. I would walk a mile to go look around, and after saving my pennies about a month I had enough to buy my first Opinel. I took that knife everywhere yup even school back then we didn't have school shootings or knifings, it wasn't uncommon to see kids carving sticks on recess, heck some of the older boys would be showing off a new .22 or shotgun they just bought to the teacher or principal. But I digress, I took the locking ring off my knife and sanded the sides where the blade touches and after a little work I had that knife turned into a flipper, I could pull it out of my pocket give it a flip and the blade would pop out spin the lock ring and I'm in business. I now own a few knives but The Opinel has always been a favorite. Thanks for the great video.
That is very cool. Yep those old days at school are long gone. But we still have those memories. Opinel makes a great knife, can do so much with them. Thanks for watching and be safe
The No. 12 wood handle has been my camp knife for years! Much better for food prep than many Scandi grind bushcraft knives--it slices potatoes and carrots like a champ! Cutting up a big potato with a thick bladed Scandi grind can be quite comical to watch! 😆 tbh
@@QuantumPyrite_88.9 The Scandi grind has it's purpose. It is good for working wood. You have more control of the size and shape of the chip you are removing by rocking on the bevel. There would not be multiple types of grind if one grind was best for all purposes.
Thin is good for small knives in the kitchen, but I just had to use a 12” parang to slice big chunks of meat and vegetables and it worked great! I Wouldn’t cut sushi with it lol, but different grinds and geometries have their place.
Opinel are designed to cut, not chop. I'd use this with a hatchet, or similar chopper if you're old school and prefer an axe/small knife combo over a large thick bladed jack of all trades survival knife. I always prefer a hatchet over a heavy knife personally, I know the combo is heavier than the heavy knife but it covers so many more tasks, and your small knife doesn't need to be compromised for small delicate tasks because it also needs to baton. By the way, I love how you describe batonning as "bludgeoning", that describes how I feel about it too!
I agree. Typically carry a folding saw and big camp knife (KOA Alaskan Bush camp knife) or a small hatchet. And yes, when I baton I always feel like I am abusing the knife...hence "Blodgeoning" 😆
Dear Mr. George’ I’m using my old number 8 since I was so young. You made peace between me and new big opinels. Thank you for that, and for great video you shared I know it takes quite effort and a big warm kind heart. Respect from Iran
Good job, verry interesting! I use the regular Opinel Nr 12 with wooden handle and carbon steel blade for about 20 years in combo with a Nr. 8 for cooking and food preparation on every camping trip. For me it is the best solution and works great. Opinel make good knives with an excellent price-worth ratio.
Looks like an excellent hunting folder. Especially since that gut hook can be removed. Since its not wood it will be easier to clean aswell. Whistle is perhaps a bit gimmicky but it doesnt appear to impair function or add extra bulk. I like it!
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
@@2ndchancegeorge It just appeared as a suggested video after I had watched a different video. I believe that video was on a specific flashlight. It's all in youtubes algorithm I guess
I ordered this knife after seeing this video. It was had to find. The fire steel has been replaced with a tick remover in the new version 🤷♂️ Your video (channel) just randomly showed up in my feed. I do watch “bushcraft” type videos which might explain it
Nicely done video. You gave the knife a great out of the package review. Opinel knives are not expensive but they do perform well for their intended uses. I have a number of them and frankly all work as they need to. I like the feel and in situations where a cut needs to be made they are knives that simply do the job required.
Thankyou for kind words. I agree. I find it hard to pay some of the prices fir similar knives. The opinel has not failed me in any situation that I've needed it. Cannot ask for more than that. And of course the price is well worth the value. Thanks for watching. Its appriciated
Congratulations for your choice. You will enjoy it for a long time if you don't loose it. When you turn the safety, to make sure than it's safe, you shall see the rivet by the apperture when it's turned to shut it.
Cool video, when you mentioned something about ppl saying you can’t stroke a Ferro rod with stainless steel….they’re just confusing the old flint and steel method, with a ferro rod and striker. I e heard plenty of novices call a ferro rod “flint” and I’m sure I thought the same, before I was told. It always makes me chuckle when someone does it. I like digging into some of your older vids George, you’ve got some good info. Cheers
Great video pal Liked and subscribed... What part of Africa are you in looks beautiful. Mabey a little scenery in the next one ( it's pissing down here in Ireland just now). Only thing now is to go off and buy the bloody knife!!! Thanks again stay safe.👍
I may not be into this one but I do have a no°8 and I'd love a slim opinel, but essentially it's a classic design (with a modern twist) for a reason....it just works and I always found opinel to be the quintessential folding knife and to be fair they're probably a little to cheap for how good they actually are
Always been a fan of Opinel and own a few despite being mostly a collector of modern knives and kitchen cutlery. This looks like a great compliment to a fixed blade knife for camping. Thank you for a simple, comprehensive video. The pattern on the rubber is topographic (like topographic maps showing elevation or depression) thematically from the Opinel Explore series. I've heard it also has a tick remover variation. For those who are confused about flint vs ferro rod. Ferro or ferrocerium rod is a man made material and can be struck on any crisp edge including glass or aluminium can or even chipped stone. Flint is a natural material and can produce sparks from a crisp edge from a simpler carbon steel (some tool steels or basically all stainless steels don't work).
Sorry I'm to traditional. I've been an opinel guy for 45 yrs. And like the feel of the wooden handle & do prefer the carbon blade over the SS. Being an avid out door's man the smaller fero rods just don't throw the Sparks like a larger fatter fero rod. And if a guy can't crave a whistle why would you need a knife. Gut hook I can do just fine without one. They really are more of a modern thing and can dress fine without the hook. And no thank you to the cumbersome looking lanyard ring. I only had to drill a hole in my wooden handle for a lanyard. My #12s have all served me fine under almost every outdoor adventure & conditions I've ever encountered. My only problem with Opinels is that I give them away as gifts there so affordable. And do hold a fine edge that generally only need a stroping on my denim pants leg to bring this back to a razor sharp edged tool. I'm not sold on the survival knife concept Opinel came out with. It's not for me. I'll take the traditional #12 any day. Besides I like to cook with them
They seem like fine knives but if I’m going to have a folding knife it will either be a Swiss Army Knife for minor work or a Cold Steel folder. Cold Steel folders are as strong as a fixed blade. I’ve been intrigued by the Opinels but can’t really see a use for it that I don’t already have another knife for. Nice review!
George your a survivalist at heart great demo I buy the Opinel 12 explorer great bush craft knife Yep I love my coffee too especially In my Stanley container have a great one George !
Lucky you great vid fyi lived in France for a while loved my opaniels did you know they were originally designed for mushroom gathering? Any way looking forward to your next vid. Keep up the good work. Rgds. jb.
Yep. Surprisingly alot of the Euro tradtional knives were originally food prep....we just adapted them. Thanks for watching. Appriciate the support. Be safe
Liked and subscribed! Very nice review, no BS, just practical stuff. It seems to work as intended; a nice knife. Looking forward to your other reviews.
An interesting choice. I've never been fond of single blade knives, except for actual hunting knives, with the gut hook on the single blade. Such an odd knife, I really could not say I would like it without trying it...Though the review was very good.
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
You're absolutely right. I've been buying only European or Japanese products for a long time now, and I'll never buy US-made or Chinese-made crap again. Except for my PC, I don't really have a choice with that. I never part with my Opinel knife.
So you are saying Leatherman, SureFire, Benchmade, Spyderco, MicroTech, CRK, Microtech, Ruger, Crescent, Snapon, etc…are trash. You clearly haven’t tried quality American tools like I mentioned or are part of a tiny minority that has issues with said manufacturers. Wow.
Thanks for sharing George always a pleasure watching your channel. Do I like this knife to be honest with you No . But I do have a number 2 and a number 6 worth every penny. Take care mate
Nice review, George! Could you do a MAM knife review? They're the Portuguese opinels......well worth buying....costing less than an Opinel.....bang for buck
Thank you for the kind words. I looked up the MAM knives. Hmmmm. I will have to look at them. Is there a specific one you think I should look at. Thanks again for the support.
Just come across your channel, and glad I did (now subscribed). That was a great review of the Opinel #12 . I've got the Opinel No. 9 and love it, plus I have a couple of bushcraft knives (Jacklore Classic and Casstrom Lars Falt) so probably don't need the Opinel #12 - but I'm still tempted. I think maybe there was a bit of confusion with the stainless blade supposedly not working with the ferro rod. It does, as you showed, but stainless blades dont work with flint. (Has to be a high carbon steel.)
Welcome. Thanks for support. I think you right about the confusion with stainless and ferro rods. I don't need 99% if the knives I own, But.....I do. Lol
Not all stainless steels are made equal. I had knifes that I could not get to work with a fire steel, despite grinding the back with great patience. Opinel doesn't use much steel, but it's decent quality. Which makes it superior to a bunch of similar priced tacticool knifes. I have a stainless nr6 in my backpack, because it weighs just as much as a rechargeable AA. I intended to use it to cut some food when taking breaks. But I did some tests and it can so quite a lot.
J'ai un N° 9 : excellent couteau lame carbone facile à aiguiser !! Seul inconvénient, la lame carbone donne un mauvais goût à la pomme que vous avez coupé ! Pour manger c'est l'inox le mieux et pour travailler, et aiguiser, c'est le carbone ;))
What I can't believe is some under 30 something can't look at this man's hands and tell he has forgot more then you have ever learned. To think that you can tell this man something he doesn't already know is the exact karenness this world can do without. The audacity! Respect your elders even if he doesn't know, pretend he does and know you're role.
You need to tone it down. What you’re arguing for is the fallacy of argument from authority. I’ve been around. I’m “old.” I also know that I STILL have a lot to learn. It is my opinion that even 2nd Chance George would say HE has a lot to learn. Pretending someone knows something can lead to their death. I’m not going to participate in that… So if I have a recommendation, I’m going to act like I “know my place,” and make sure he knows too. That shows REAL respect to an elder, not the fake shit you demand.
Appriciate your support. I don't think I know everything and I have tried to find someone who does....lol...I tried to someone with no success alas...but the search for knowledge is still I'm this old guy. 👌
I can probably why most don't like em nowadays. It don't have 4 different ways to flip it open. Not made from magna cut and don't have titanium scales with some other inlays with some crazy name all together costing $1000. Just being a normal knife that cuts well isn't enuff with a great deal of people nowadays. Just found your channel and am enjoying it. Thanks
Lol. That's becoming a true story. I'm on a budget. So I cannot spend some of the money being asked for these days. But I always get a better value for money.. and I can use them without worrying about how much it will cost to replace. Thanks for the support. Appreciated. Stay safe out there
Very true - I also think a lot of ‘knife guys’ don’t actually use knives for anything more than opening packages, treating them more as artefacts rather than tools.
Tick remover is that orange pin holding the cutter, you can pull it all the way out. I would advise against anything but cutting, doing kindlings ends up loosening the blade from the shaft …. Got the tshirt 😢
Bonjour. My grand-father made flutes (pipo), cuting his bread ,ropes,.... . A old breton farmer with 2 horses and couple of cows until the war . His opinels were always around. One in his pocket always. Until his death. Any french farmer would have one. I am not farmer but "it is" usefull and a tradition (kind of) in bretagne.
No. The issue is I cut bags of salt open everyday at work. I don't have time to clean off regularly to the salt rusts the blade, it's my issue not the knife....lol. I clean it and sharpen it but not very regular. It's the carbon steel blade.thqnks for watching 👍
Lol...its a Galaxy. I use it to monitor my heart rate etc. Helps keep me calm. With my heart issues it keeps me settled. Thanks forcwatching. Appriciate the support. Stay safe
@@2ndchancegeorge thanks. so it's a smartwatch? i'm a watch geek too and apparently did not recognize it. i though you have some traditional field watch. who do you think this opinel is for? i'm puzzled. there's the traditional model, which is a picnic/peasant's knife. you won't eat with this explore model. then ify you want multifuncionality then you have all the victorinox and leatherman multitool models. if you want heavy use, then you just buy a fixed blade/full tang knife. the explore model seems inherently weak by design. so i don't get this opinel explire, even though i sometimes fancy buying it for fun. wish you all the best!
I also viewed the 'other' reviewer and thought that it was over critial and somewhat opinionated. Your reviews counters the balance and it is much fairer. Thank you for such a warmly presented objective presentation. My only critism is the UK price...but that is 'rip off Britain' for you. Be well.
Thankyou. I try to be fair. I look at products on how I would use them. If it does the job. It's good enough for me. I am know expert. Just enjoy all things outdoirs and try to learn. I appriciate you Lind words. Be safe out there.
Nowadays eyeryons seems to need a gimmick. I'm disappointed that Opinel had to stoop to this level, but at least they kept the best features common to all of their products. Note that Opinel 8 refers to an 8 cm (3 1/8") blade while 12 refers to a 12 cm (4 3/4") blade. Also, sorry for the remark in the BPS video. I meant it as an observation and not a chastisement.
I agree it seems to stay competitive they all feel the need to do this. Is it them or us that requires it. Not sure. The BPS thing was tongue in cheek. No problem. Many thanks for the support. It is appreciated.
@Shasta Ham - unfortunately it's not that straight forward with their model numbers, e.g. #3 has a 4cm blade, #4 has a 5cm blade - and the #12-Explore has a 10cm blade, while their regular #12 has a 12cm blade. I'm not sure, if a hunter would call the gut-hook a gimmick - it always depends on what tasks you throw your knife.
This fable about stainless steel not sparking on a ferro rod, is totally false. Any steel will spark on a ferro/magnesium rod. As a matter of fact, any hard material will throw sparks on a ferro rod. Things like carbon steel, stainless steel, glass, obsidian...anything hard with a sharp edge. Try it ! Now if we are talking about a flint (a mineral/rock) ...the very hard flint causes the carbon in the steel to throw a tiny spark which if caught in a piece of char cloth or a dry fungus, can be coached into a flame.
I can't believe how silly some people are. Ferro rods don't work w stainless steel? LOL! On the Victorinox Swiss Pocket Knife, you can now get a ferro rod to replace the tooth pick. The Pincher (!) can work as the blade you strike with, no issue. I bet you, these people are the ones who do not know you have to scrape off the black coating before using it the first time :D
Je suis français j ai plusieurs Opinel de toute taille mais celui au quel je tiens est celui de mon grand père qui s en servait tout les jours je l ai nettoyer et il es st reparti pour 30 ans bonjour au usa
Not a bad knife but it seems to rattle a bit. To each his own I've always said. Having a knife when you need it is the main thing. The whistle is a nice touch.
G'day George, gave away my no. 8, just too small for me, however the 9 and 10 I'm very pleased with. As far as this one goes, size; great; blade profile, great, blade material adequate. Handle material, ok fine, but I have always had the need to round over the top rear on any sized Opinel handle. In fairness I've only ever hunted small game, but cant say I've ever needed a gut hook, ...... for anything, ......isnt that what the primary blade is for. Should have just stuck with the ferro rod, whistle debatable, (but better to have it than not), IMO. Bottom line, fair to say utility camp knife rather than "survival knife". Anyway didn't even know this model existed til now, so, many thanks for the look mate. Cheers Duke.
I use my 8's for work edc. They work well for me. I agree not really for survival more camp. Most use the gut hook for cordage. I am with you havens use for it. Thanks for watching appriciate the support. Be safe.
@@2ndchancegeorge Thanks for the reply George, noth'n wrong with the 8, just for my hands the 9 and particularly the 10 is far more suitable, and the 8 went to a good home, its purely dimensional. Even without serrations I reckon the 9 is a fantastic steak knife. Yep cordage, love my knots in conjunction with carabiners, but again a nice slicey primary blade, on land or at sea, is a good rope knife I reckon. i will, and you stay safe too mate.
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
@@2ndchancegeorge Well it happened to appear in my suggested watch list, which I dont usually pay attention to, but I am whats generally known as a knife dude, and "Opinel" just caught my eye, and especially being a previously unknown, (to me), model. Cant say I've seen it anywhere else on YT or advertised on the net at all.
It’s a one stop get out of trouble knife . Call it a survival knife a camp knife whatever makes you feel good but I’d like that on my hip if I got lost.
I do understand what they mean by not able to start a fire with inox and they are wrong. With flint and steel you need corbon steel from what i heared exept this is a ferrorrod not flint.
Lol I saw the thumbnail and thought, “Ohhhh no… the pressure to ‘modernize’ got to Opinel too. Oh no, WWWHHHHHYYYYYYY - if it ain’t broke, DON’T FIX IT, OPINEL!” So yeah, the thumbnail made me nervous, cause sometimes these new and edgy and high-tech/-addition/-appendage designs just reek of ‘reinventing the wheel’ in some of the most foolish and utterly pointless ways. I sometimes consider some of the ‘modern’ stuff to be completely useless hunks of garbage, and utter wastes of valuable material that’s used to make these STUPID things. Seriously, go check out some of Spyderco’s hatchets/axes and ask yourself, “Would I, as a self respecting bushcrafter and/or woodsman, take ANY of these axes/hatchets anywhere NEAR a treeline? Let alone venture INTO said treeline/forest with these… things?” My guess is your answer would be a huge and resounding, “HELL no!” But this is good! It’s nice to see that Opinel is trying new things but also ‘modernizing’ gracefully (and legitimately usefully.) All of these new little features don’t seem to be bad augmentations to an overall big Opinel knife. I also like the new rubberizing of the handle they’re trying out. It never hurts to make a tool grippier. My only critique is that the cord cutter looks a tad bit redundant. I just don’t particularly feel like I need a designated cord cutter with this particular tool… which is already a KNIFE. Lol
True story. They now are offering the different handle on the regular numbers. With small add ons...see opinel sport....lol. thanks for watching always appreciated 🙏
Those who say you cant strike a ferro rod with a stainless steel knife are plain keyboard trolls. What is needed is a harder material with a sharp edge to strike a ferro rod. They confuse it with high carbon steel knife that can be used as a flint striker. Flint/chert/quartz are different from ferro rods.
Good question. I assume it's so you don't have to open up the blade and can cut cordage by just sliding the cord cutter across. Probably safer too. Just my thoughts. Thanks for watching appriciate the support.
I think it's more of a gut hook. Not every customer would want to hear that. Some old time Maine hunters don't feel the need for a fancy hunting knife to dress out their deer--a jack knife does the job. This Opinel might work for others of that opinion.
I agree. Here's their description from their website. "Steel cutting hook for twine and large game.". But I know it as a gut hook. Thanks for watching and commenting. Always appriciate it. Be safe out there
Lol..sorry about that. I was trying to make sure you could see the knife and what I was doing with it. Thanks for watching and commenting. Working on trying to get better. No sure it's working...lol.
I was looking at Opinel knives watching a couple factory videos and this video caught my eye. I'm not a rugged outdoors man but when I was 8 my eye found a #7 in this old mans store, he had fishing poles, pipes for Tabaco, maps, books about old trappers and hunters, just a cool old store. The old man would smoke a pipe so the store had a great smell to it. I would walk a mile to go look around, and after saving my pennies about a month I had enough to buy my first Opinel.
I took that knife everywhere yup even school back then we didn't have school shootings or knifings, it wasn't uncommon to see kids carving sticks on recess, heck some of the older boys would be showing off a new .22 or shotgun they just bought to the teacher or principal.
But I digress, I took the locking ring off my knife and sanded the sides where the blade touches and after a little work I had that knife turned into a flipper, I could pull it out of my pocket give it a flip and the blade would pop out spin the lock ring and I'm in business. I now own a few knives but The Opinel has always been a favorite.
Thanks for the great video.
That is very cool. Yep those old days at school are long gone. But we still have those memories. Opinel makes a great knife, can do so much with them. Thanks for watching and be safe
The No. 12 wood handle has been my camp knife for years! Much better for food prep than many Scandi grind bushcraft knives--it slices potatoes and carrots like a champ! Cutting up a big potato with a thick bladed Scandi grind can be quite comical to watch! 😆 tbh
The Opinel I believe was originally designed as a food prep knife. We adapted it to a everyday carry, camping etc. 🏕 thanks again for stopping by.
If your opined is stiff, hard to open, tap the horn on the end of the handle on a hard surface!
@@marievictoire1939 b vtn v😅bvb can be BB😢😮😅
@@QuantumPyrite_88.9 The Scandi grind has it's purpose. It is good for working wood. You have more control of the size and shape of the chip you are removing by rocking on the bevel. There would not be multiple types of grind if one grind was best for all purposes.
Thin is good for small knives in the kitchen, but I just had to use a 12” parang to slice big chunks of meat and vegetables and it worked great! I Wouldn’t cut sushi with it lol, but different grinds and geometries have their place.
Cool knife and by the label on his cap he loves the fine cuisine
LOL. it's a nice knife, the cap is my lucky charm......Thanks for watching greatly appreciated, stay safe
Always nice to hear good things about Opinel products... I have 5 Opinels. Great blades!
Yes they seem. I was surprised by the number of different things they do
Opinel are designed to cut, not chop. I'd use this with a hatchet, or similar chopper if you're old school and prefer an axe/small knife combo over a large thick bladed jack of all trades survival knife. I always prefer a hatchet over a heavy knife personally, I know the combo is heavier than the heavy knife but it covers so many more tasks, and your small knife doesn't need to be compromised for small delicate tasks because it also needs to baton.
By the way, I love how you describe batonning as "bludgeoning", that describes how I feel about it too!
I agree. Typically carry a folding saw and big camp knife (KOA Alaskan Bush camp knife) or a small hatchet. And yes, when I baton I always feel like I am abusing the knife...hence "Blodgeoning" 😆
I got my first Opnel knife 28 years ago in France and still got it ...one of or the best pocket knife going ..
Yep true story
I may have to purchase this opinel in the future! Another great review George! ☺️
Lol...I hear you. It's certainly different to the Opinel I think of. But same quality. Just different. Thanks for watching
Dear Mr. George’
I’m using my old number 8 since I was so young. You made peace between me and new big opinels. Thank you for that, and for great video you shared I know it takes quite effort and a big warm kind heart.
Respect from Iran
Thankyou for watching. Hopefully the 12 will be good for you. Be safe.
Just got one and am very impressed - great review mate, keep it up!
Glad you like the knife. Thankyou for the support. It much appriciated
@@2ndchancegeorge thank you for the video mate
Good job, verry interesting!
I use the regular Opinel Nr 12 with wooden handle and carbon steel blade for about 20 years in combo with a Nr. 8 for cooking and food preparation on every camping trip. For me it is the best solution and works great.
Opinel make good knives with an excellent price-worth ratio.
Yep with you there. I believe they were originally designed for food prep. Stay safe and thanks for watching
Ive used an Opinel No12 for 30+ years, still have and use it, best knife ever designed.
Yep awesome knives. Thanks again for the support
Looks like an excellent hunting folder. Especially since that gut hook can be removed. Since its not wood it will be easier to clean aswell. Whistle is perhaps a bit gimmicky but it doesnt appear to impair function or add extra bulk. I like it!
Yep. Appriate the support
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
@@2ndchancegeorge It just appeared as a suggested video after I had watched a different video. I believe that video was on a specific flashlight. It's all in youtubes algorithm I guess
Ok thanks. Be safe
I ordered this knife after seeing this video. It was had to find. The fire steel has been replaced with a tick remover in the new version 🤷♂️
Your video (channel) just randomly showed up in my feed. I do watch “bushcraft” type videos which might explain it
I love my Opinel.Super Opinel 😀👌 ! Like👍👋 Thank you
Lol. Me too. Great knives for sure. Thanks for watching
Nicely done video. You gave the knife a great out of the package review. Opinel knives are not expensive but they do perform well for their intended uses. I have a number of them and frankly all work as they need to. I like the feel and in situations where a cut needs to be made they are knives that simply do the job required.
Thankyou for kind words. I agree. I find it hard to pay some of the prices fir similar knives. The opinel has not failed me in any situation that I've needed it. Cannot ask for more than that. And of course the price is well worth the value. Thanks for watching. Its appriciated
Congratulations for your choice. You will enjoy it for a long time if you don't loose it.
When you turn the safety, to make sure than it's safe, you shall see the rivet by the apperture when it's turned to shut it.
Thankyou. Apprciate the support. Be safe out there
A Ferro rod can be struck by any sharp hard price of metal but a flint can only be struck with carbon steel. That knife looks awesome!
Yep agree. Thanks forvwatching appriciate the support. Be safe
@@2ndchancegeorge it's a great looking knife and I enjoyed the video take care,!
👍🏽Given! Going down the rabbit hole came across this video, glad I did. Knew nothing about Opinels' now I do, Thank you Sir.
You are welcome. Opinels are great knives. Thankyou for your support. Be safe out there
The first video of yours I have seen. I really enjoyed it. Greetings from the UK.
Welcome. Thanks for stopping by appriciate the support
Cool video, when you mentioned something about ppl saying you can’t stroke a Ferro rod with stainless steel….they’re just confusing the old flint and steel method, with a ferro rod and striker. I e heard plenty of novices call a ferro rod “flint” and I’m sure I thought the same, before I was told. It always makes me chuckle when someone does it. I like digging into some of your older vids George, you’ve got some good info. Cheers
Yep, that cased some comments...lol.be safe my friend
Great video pal
Liked and subscribed...
What part of Africa are you in looks beautiful. Mabey a little scenery in the next one ( it's pissing down here in Ireland just now).
Only thing now is to go off and buy the bloody knife!!! Thanks again stay safe.👍
Am from Zimbabwe but moved to minnesota is US. Awesome outdoors here. Thanks for watching.
I may not be into this one but I do have a no°8 and I'd love a slim opinel, but essentially it's a classic design (with a modern twist) for a reason....it just works and I always found opinel to be the quintessential folding knife and to be fair they're probably a little to cheap for how good they actually are
I am with you there. Cannot beat thier value for money. Thanks for watching. Much appriciate the support
Always been a fan of Opinel and own a few despite being mostly a collector of modern knives and kitchen cutlery. This looks like a great compliment to a fixed blade knife for camping. Thank you for a simple, comprehensive video.
The pattern on the rubber is topographic (like topographic maps showing elevation or depression) thematically from the Opinel Explore series. I've heard it also has a tick remover variation.
For those who are confused about flint vs ferro rod.
Ferro or ferrocerium rod is a man made material and can be struck on any crisp edge including glass or aluminium can or even chipped stone.
Flint is a natural material and can produce sparks from a crisp edge from a simpler carbon steel (some tool steels or basically all stainless steels don't work).
Yep. Appriciate the support. Thanks 😊
Yes, it's a flint that doesn't work. Therefore you need Carbon steel to make a spark hitting a inside off a rock, not just any rock.
Greetings
Yes. Thanks for watching 👍
Sorry I'm to traditional. I've been an opinel guy for 45 yrs. And like the feel of the wooden handle & do prefer the carbon blade over the SS. Being an avid out door's man the smaller fero rods just don't throw the Sparks like a larger fatter fero rod. And if a guy can't crave a whistle why would you need a knife. Gut hook I can do just fine without one. They really are more of a modern thing and can dress fine without the hook. And no thank you to the cumbersome looking lanyard ring. I only had to drill a hole in my wooden handle for a lanyard. My #12s have all served me fine under almost every outdoor adventure & conditions I've ever encountered. My only problem with Opinels is that I give them away as gifts there so affordable. And do hold a fine edge that generally only need a stroping on my denim pants leg to bring this back to a razor sharp edged tool. I'm not sold on the survival knife concept Opinel came out with. It's not for me. I'll take the traditional #12 any day. Besides I like to cook with them
I prefer a folding saw, fixed blade and a hatchet now and again. Thanks for watching greatly appriciated.
Thats awesome camping knife,i love opinel,i have carbone 12
Yep is a great knife. Thanks for watching.
They seem like fine knives but if I’m going to have a folding knife it will either be a Swiss Army Knife for minor work or a Cold Steel folder. Cold Steel folders are as strong as a fixed blade. I’ve been intrigued by the Opinels but can’t really see a use for it that I don’t already have another knife for. Nice review!
I appreciate your views. Thanks for watching and the support. Be safe
If you believe a folder can be as strong as a fixed blade, think again !
George your a survivalist at heart great demo I buy the Opinel 12 explorer great bush craft knife Yep I love my coffee too especially In my Stanley container have a great one George !
Thankyou. I like to be some what prepared...lol. thanks for watching. Life without coffee is no life at all...lol. be safe out there
Lucky you great vid fyi lived in France for a while loved my opaniels did you know they were originally designed for mushroom gathering?
Any way looking forward to your next vid.
Keep up the good work. Rgds. jb.
Yep. Surprisingly alot of the Euro tradtional knives were originally food prep....we just adapted them. Thanks for watching. Appriciate the support. Be safe
I'm surprised it survived the batoning. Might have to give this one a try. Good video!
Yep. I was concerned about that. It handled it better than I thought it would. Thanks for watching. I appriciate your support.
Hello, batoning yes, but with moderation only.
Yes..no heavy batoning for sure.
Just ordered a Opinel No.08 Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife with Beechwood Handle👍
Jimo
I see the same model, green and gray handle, with a tick remover instead of fire stick.
Yep I saw that. Just preferred the fire stater. I carry a tip remover in my small med kit. It is a nice option. Thanks for watching 👍
Liked and subscribed! Very nice review, no BS, just practical stuff. It seems to work as intended; a nice knife. Looking forward to your other reviews.
Thankyou. Appriciate the kind words and support. Stay safe
An interesting choice. I've never been fond of single blade knives, except for actual hunting knives, with the gut hook on the single blade. Such an odd knife, I really could not say I would like it without trying it...Though the review was very good.
Yep its a good knife but you right. I tend to carry separate stuff. At my age I lose alot and that would all at once..lol. thanks for watching
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
You're absolutely right. I've been buying only European or Japanese products for a long time now, and I'll never buy US-made or Chinese-made crap again. Except for my PC, I don't really have a choice with that. I never part with my Opinel knife.
Love em opinels. Thanks for watching...I cannot afford the USA stuff...lol
So you are saying Leatherman, SureFire, Benchmade, Spyderco, MicroTech, CRK, Microtech, Ruger, Crescent, Snapon, etc…are trash.
You clearly haven’t tried quality American tools like I mentioned or are part of a tiny minority that has issues with said manufacturers.
Wow.
Thanks for sharing George always a pleasure watching your channel. Do I like this knife to be honest with you No . But I do have a number 2 and a number 6 worth every penny. Take care mate
I do likevthe more traditional. I use a 8 for a work edc
Great video…going to get my #12 for sure!
Good choice! You wont be dissapointed. Be safe and thanks for watching 👍
Nice review, George!
Could you do a MAM knife review?
They're the Portuguese opinels......well worth buying....costing less than an Opinel.....bang for buck
Thank you for the kind words. I looked up the MAM knives. Hmmmm. I will have to look at them. Is there a specific one you think I should look at. Thanks again for the support.
Those MAM's are awesome for the price thanks for the heads up.
Beautiful video Sir. I really liked it so much I subscribed. Liked. And Shared. God bless
Thankyou appriciate the support
Great review George, it looks to do what it says it will do.
Thanks big guy. Not sure why alot of people were hating on it. It does what they say. No pleasing all I suppose.....lol
Great review. Thank You Sir!
My pleasure!. Thanks for watching appreciate the support
Just come across your channel, and glad I did (now subscribed). That was a great review of the Opinel #12 . I've got the Opinel No. 9 and love it, plus I have a couple of bushcraft knives (Jacklore Classic and Casstrom Lars Falt) so probably don't need the Opinel #12 - but I'm still tempted.
I think maybe there was a bit of confusion with the stainless blade supposedly not working with the ferro rod. It does, as you showed, but stainless blades dont work with flint. (Has to be a high carbon steel.)
Welcome. Thanks for support. I think you right about the confusion with stainless and ferro rods. I don't need 99% if the knives I own, But.....I do. Lol
Not all stainless steels are made equal.
I had knifes that I could not get to work with a fire steel, despite grinding the back with great patience.
Opinel doesn't use much steel, but it's decent quality. Which makes it superior to a bunch of similar priced tacticool knifes.
I have a stainless nr6 in my backpack, because it weighs just as much as a rechargeable AA.
I intended to use it to cut some food when taking breaks. But I did some tests and it can so quite a lot.
The opinels Are great knives. Well made and work well thanks for watching. I appriciate it. Stay safe
J'ai un N° 9 : excellent couteau lame carbone facile à aiguiser !! Seul inconvénient, la lame carbone donne un mauvais goût à la pomme que vous avez coupé ! Pour manger c'est l'inox le mieux et pour travailler, et aiguiser, c'est le carbone ;))
Oh no !. That is not good. I prefer carbon, but for food prep I normally use Stainless. Thank you for watching
Mais la pomme colore les Opinels de carbone d'un beau brun.
What I can't believe is some under 30 something can't look at this man's hands and tell he has forgot more then you have ever learned. To think that you can tell this man something he doesn't already know is the exact karenness this world can do without. The audacity! Respect your elders even if he doesn't know, pretend he does and know you're role.
Lol...Thankyou....I think. Appriciate your support
You need to tone it down. What you’re arguing for is the fallacy of argument from authority. I’ve been around. I’m “old.” I also know that I STILL have a lot to learn. It is my opinion that even 2nd Chance George would say HE has a lot to learn. Pretending someone knows something can lead to their death. I’m not going to participate in that… So if I have a recommendation, I’m going to act like I “know my place,” and make sure he knows too. That shows REAL respect to an elder, not the fake shit you demand.
Appriciate your support. I don't think I know everything and I have tried to find someone who does....lol...I tried to someone with no success alas...but the search for knowledge is still I'm this old guy. 👌
👏👏👏👏👏
I can probably why most don't like em nowadays. It don't have 4 different ways to flip it open. Not made from magna cut and don't have titanium scales with some other inlays with some crazy name all together costing $1000. Just being a normal knife that cuts well isn't enuff with a great deal of people nowadays. Just found your channel and am enjoying it. Thanks
Lol. That's becoming a true story. I'm on a budget. So I cannot spend some of the money being asked for these days. But I always get a better value for money.. and I can use them without worrying about how much it will cost to replace. Thanks for the support. Appreciated. Stay safe out there
Very true - I also think a lot of ‘knife guys’ don’t actually use knives for anything more than opening packages, treating them more as artefacts rather than tools.
I wonder if we can fit a #12 saw into this nice synthetic handle. I think it would look great😅
Yep. Good idea
i use the regular #12 carbon, it has a long 4.8" blade
Yep. They all have there advantages. Thanks for watching
The new #12 Explore comes with a tick remover and you have to buy the fire starter, separately, for $10.
Wow...did not know that thanks for watching
Tick remover is that orange pin holding the cutter, you can pull it all the way out. I would advise against anything but cutting, doing kindlings ends up loosening the blade from the shaft …. Got the tshirt 😢
Thanks for the info
Bonjour.
My grand-father made flutes (pipo), cuting his bread ,ropes,.... .
A old breton farmer with 2 horses and couple of cows until the war .
His opinels were always around. One in his pocket always. Until his death.
Any french farmer would have one. I am not farmer but "it is" usefull and a tradition (kind of) in bretagne.
Yep. Been around a long time. Wonderful knives. Thanks for watching. Always appreciated
Great job as usual old friend !
Thankyou sir. Appriciate the visit. Stay safe
Thank you for new number 12 is good i have number 8 but is too small. Number 12 is big enough very good for me thanks
Thanks for watching
Great show mate and a great knife
Thankyou appriciate the support.
I carry a no.8 as my edc! Do you have a moisture issue on your side?
No. The issue is I cut bags of salt open everyday at work. I don't have time to clean off regularly to the salt rusts the blade, it's my issue not the knife....lol. I clean it and sharpen it but not very regular. It's the carbon steel blade.thqnks for watching 👍
Three in one knives is three ways to go wrong. Carry a multi tool thing,fire starter,and a full length blade to survive.
L...I do. Thanks for watching 👍
Great job. Thanks
Thank you. Appriciate the support
That’s pretty cool. I don’t have an Opinel yet.
The Opinel #8 is a good all rounder for edc. Thus guy is great to have in your pack just incase . thanks again for the support
The Opinel #8 is a good all rounder for edc. Thus guy is great to have in your pack just incase . thanks again for the support
I have a number eight and a number 10 opinel. Bith are great knives
Yep forvsure. Lovevthem opinels. Thanks for the support as always be safe
I love my Opinel. Thank you
Yep they are things of magnificence....lol. love em. Thanks for watching much appriciated
nice review! i have mixed feelings about this opinel though. what's your wristwatch?
Lol...its a Galaxy. I use it to monitor my heart rate etc. Helps keep me calm. With my heart issues it keeps me settled. Thanks forcwatching. Appriciate the support. Stay safe
@@2ndchancegeorge thanks. so it's a smartwatch? i'm a watch geek too and apparently did not recognize it. i though you have some traditional field watch.
who do you think this opinel is for? i'm puzzled. there's the traditional model, which is a picnic/peasant's knife. you won't eat with this explore model. then ify you want multifuncionality then you have all the victorinox and leatherman multitool models. if you want heavy use, then you just buy a fixed blade/full tang knife. the explore model seems inherently weak by design. so i don't get this opinel explire, even though i sometimes fancy buying it for fun. wish you all the best!
@@susrev88 that's a good question. To be honest it's not something I would use. I woul think a general camp knife is how I would use it.
Looks like a great knife , I guess it depends on what you want to use it for 👍
Yep. A nice blade but not sure about the extras. Thanks for watching 👍
Спасибо!
Thankyou
This is an amazing review, nice
Thankyou it's appriciated
I also viewed the 'other' reviewer and thought that it was over critial and somewhat opinionated. Your reviews counters the balance and it is much fairer. Thank you for such a warmly presented objective presentation. My only critism is the UK price...but that is 'rip off Britain' for you. Be well.
Thankyou. I try to be fair. I look at products on how I would use them. If it does the job. It's good enough for me. I am know expert. Just enjoy all things outdoirs and try to learn. I appriciate you Lind words. Be safe out there.
Nowadays eyeryons seems to need a gimmick. I'm disappointed that Opinel had to stoop to this level, but at least they kept the best features common to all of their products. Note that Opinel 8 refers to an 8 cm (3 1/8") blade while 12 refers to a 12 cm (4 3/4") blade. Also, sorry for the remark in the BPS video. I meant it as an observation and not a chastisement.
I agree it seems to stay competitive they all feel the need to do this. Is it them or us that requires it. Not sure. The BPS thing was tongue in cheek. No problem. Many thanks for the support. It is appreciated.
@Shasta Ham - unfortunately it's not that straight forward with their model numbers,
e.g. #3 has a 4cm blade, #4 has a 5cm blade - and the #12-Explore has a 10cm blade, while their regular #12 has a 12cm blade.
I'm not sure, if a hunter would call the gut-hook a gimmick - it always depends on what tasks you throw your knife.
Nice video, thank you. Talking about survival: did you know Opinel has a dedicated "knife" to open oisters? Can't survive without it ;o)
Lol. True story. I say that. Thanks for watching appriciate it. Stay safe
It's flint that won't spark with most stainless steels. God save us from the failures of public education.
Yep!
It’s the steel that sparks not the flint.
This fable about stainless steel not sparking on a ferro rod, is totally false.
Any steel will spark on a ferro/magnesium rod. As a matter of fact, any hard material will throw sparks on a ferro rod. Things like carbon steel, stainless steel, glass, obsidian...anything hard with a sharp edge.
Try it !
Now if we are talking about a flint (a mineral/rock) ...the very hard flint causes the carbon in the steel to throw a tiny spark which if caught in a piece of char cloth or a dry fungus, can be coached into a flame.
True story. Thanks for watching. apprciate the support
Yes, yes, public eduction is where one should learn that. WTF. Take a deep breath or two..
I can't believe how silly some people are. Ferro rods don't work w stainless steel? LOL! On the Victorinox Swiss Pocket Knife, you can now get a ferro rod to replace the tooth pick. The Pincher (!) can work as the blade you strike with, no issue. I bet you, these people are the ones who do not know you have to scrape off the black coating before using it the first time :D
Lol...true story. I havevseen people try without scrapping of the coating first...the horror
It's not a sabre grind or a wcsndi grind as you said. It's a full flat grind. And that's a gut hook, it's not for cordage.
You are correct. The cordage was in the description only reason I said that. But it is a gut hook with you there
@2ndchancegeorge and you called it a gut hook several times later in the video. I commented before I finished watching. Good review, cheers
No problem. Thanks for the support
The blade works fine, just take the gimmicks off and you have a nice Opinel knife!
True story. Thanks for watching 👍
Je suis français j ai plusieurs Opinel de toute taille mais celui au quel je tiens est celui de mon grand père qui s en servait tout les jours je l ai nettoyer et il es st reparti pour 30 ans bonjour au usa
They are great knives and if maintained yes will last that long. Thank you for stopping by. i appreciate the support
Not a bad knife but it seems to rattle a bit. To each his own I've always said. Having a knife when you need it is the main thing. The whistle is a nice touch.
Yep its the gut hook I think. But you right...need to have a 🔪. Be safe and thanks for watching 👍
I want that knife! 😊
Lol.. it is a nice knife. Thanks for watching.
How is this knife holding up?
I used it a couple times and had no problems. I gifted it to a friend who loves it. Hope that helps. Be ssfe
G'day George, gave away my no. 8, just too small for me, however the 9 and 10 I'm very pleased with. As far as this one goes, size; great; blade profile, great, blade material adequate. Handle material, ok fine, but I have always had the need to round over the top rear on any sized Opinel handle.
In fairness I've only ever hunted small game, but cant say I've ever needed a gut hook, ...... for anything, ......isnt that what the primary blade is for. Should have just stuck with the ferro rod, whistle debatable, (but better to have it than not), IMO. Bottom line, fair to say utility camp knife rather than "survival knife". Anyway didn't even know this model existed til now, so, many thanks for the look mate. Cheers Duke.
I use my 8's for work edc. They work well for me. I agree not really for survival more camp. Most use the gut hook for cordage. I am with you havens use for it. Thanks for watching appriciate the support. Be safe.
@@2ndchancegeorge Thanks for the reply George, noth'n wrong with the 8, just for my hands the 9 and particularly the 10 is far more suitable, and the 8 went to a good home, its purely dimensional. Even without serrations I reckon the 9 is a fantastic steak knife. Yep cordage, love my knots in conjunction with carabiners, but again a nice slicey primary blade, on land or at sea, is a good rope knife I reckon.
i will, and you stay safe too mate.
@@eyeofthetiger4184 hear you
I have a question for you. This video went viral 4 days ago after a year. How or what made you watch. I am really interested to know why for such a small channel it went viral. Thanks again
@@2ndchancegeorge Well it happened to appear in my suggested watch list, which I dont usually pay attention to, but I am whats generally known as a knife dude, and "Opinel" just caught my eye, and especially being a previously unknown, (to me), model. Cant say I've seen it anywhere else on YT or advertised on the net at all.
Great review! I specially liked when you educated the numb brain sheep that actually believe stainless can't spark a Ferro rod. Great job
Thankyou...lol. I appriciate the support. Have read some of the comments.....lol. be safe
Enjoyed this, subscribed
Thankyou. Apprciate the support. Be safe
Me, too...
@@davestelling thankyou. Be safe
I want two...
Lol...me too. Thanks for watching 👍
It’s a one stop get out of trouble knife . Call it a survival knife a camp knife whatever makes you feel good but I’d like that on my hip if I got lost.
Yep, get out if trouble card fir sure. Thanks for watching and be safe out there
A feral hog in the handle? SOLD!
Lol
I do understand what they mean by not able to start a fire with inox and they are wrong. With flint and steel you need corbon steel from what i heared exept this is a ferrorrod not flint.
Correct. Thanks for watching 👍
It's cheaper than most blades because it's carbon steel, not high carbon steel,, The blade is easier to sharpen but won't hold the edge as long..
👍
Nothing wrong with that knife ! It works .
Lol...True story. Did what I need a knife to do. Thanks forcwatching, appriciate the support.Be safe out there
The best survival knife is the one you have 😀
That's a very true story. Thanks for watching always appriciated 👍
Made in Savoie . In 2022 6.5 millions were sold accross the world !
Yep very popular. Thanks for watching
Lol I saw the thumbnail and thought, “Ohhhh no… the pressure to ‘modernize’ got to Opinel too. Oh no, WWWHHHHHYYYYYYY - if it ain’t broke, DON’T FIX IT, OPINEL!”
So yeah, the thumbnail made me nervous, cause sometimes these new and edgy and high-tech/-addition/-appendage designs just reek of ‘reinventing the wheel’ in some of the most foolish and utterly pointless ways. I sometimes consider some of the ‘modern’ stuff to be completely useless hunks of garbage, and utter wastes of valuable material that’s used to make these STUPID things. Seriously, go check out some of Spyderco’s hatchets/axes and ask yourself, “Would I, as a self respecting bushcrafter and/or woodsman, take ANY of these axes/hatchets anywhere NEAR a treeline? Let alone venture INTO said treeline/forest with these… things?” My guess is your answer would be a huge and resounding, “HELL no!”
But this is good! It’s nice to see that Opinel is trying new things but also ‘modernizing’ gracefully (and legitimately usefully.) All of these new little features don’t seem to be bad augmentations to an overall big Opinel knife. I also like the new rubberizing of the handle they’re trying out. It never hurts to make a tool grippier.
My only critique is that the cord cutter looks a tad bit redundant. I just don’t particularly feel like I need a designated cord cutter with this particular tool… which is already a KNIFE. Lol
True story. They now are offering the different handle on the regular numbers. With small add ons...see opinel sport....lol. thanks for watching always appreciated 🙏
Nice..I have a #8
Good Review!!
Thankyou glad you enjoyed it. 😉
Those who say you cant strike a ferro rod with a stainless steel knife are plain keyboard trolls. What is needed is a harder material with a sharp edge to strike a ferro rod. They confuse it with high carbon steel knife that can be used as a flint striker. Flint/chert/quartz are different from ferro rods.
Yep you are right. Thanks for watching
opinels are fantastic
Yep, true story. 👍
why u need cord cutter when u already have the knife?
Good question. I assume it's so you don't have to open up the blade and can cut cordage by just sliding the cord cutter across. Probably safer too. Just my thoughts. Thanks for watching appriciate the support.
A cord cutter is very good for cutting through monofilament (fishing line), nets, and tangles of thin cord. I have a rescue knife with one.
True story. Thanks for watching and commenting. It's appriciated. Stay safe
I think it's more of a gut hook. Not every customer would want to hear that.
Some old time Maine hunters don't feel the need for a fancy hunting knife to dress out their deer--a jack knife does the job. This Opinel might work for others of that opinion.
Nice knife Geo
Thankyou. Has its uses. I thunk more of a camp knife than survival. Appriciate the support. Be safe
Yeah… that’s a gut hook fella! 😂
I agree. Here's their description from their website. "Steel cutting hook for twine and large game.". But I know it as a gut hook. Thanks for watching and commenting. Always appriciate it. Be safe out there
👍🏼
Thankyou
🖐🏻 George , 👍🏻👍🏻
Lol...thankyou sir be safe
Thanks!
Thankyou. Apprciciate the support.v
Most of the time you are working just outside the camera view. It gives a strange feeling to me.
Lol..sorry about that. I was trying to make sure you could see the knife and what I was doing with it. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Working on trying to get better. No sure it's working...lol.
Oh right
The Misconception of Stainless Steel not sparking a Ferro Rod comes from Stainless Steel not sparking a Flint.
Yep...
It is Opinal trying to get a market share of the idiot bushcraft market.
For the price I'd just get a couple Moras.
You probably right. Alot of makers are. Thanks for watching
I like too.
Lol. Thanks for watching
👍👍👍
Stay safe