Each one is hand-forged and Tsuchime-hammered from layer upon layer of steel, granting it its distinctive texture. The sharpening process also brings out the equally unique hamon pattern of the edge (that wavy line that follows the edge itself).
To finish it off, each blade has the blacksmith’s Japanese kanji carved into it near the base of the spine. The hand hammering also does not interfere with the blade’s nail nick, maintaining its classic manual deployment.
Style meets substance
The knife’s stunning blade is mated to a curly maple handle, which provides some stylistic contrast with the blade while still elevating the whole knife.
You’ll find another Opinel mainstay between the blade and handle: the brand’s signature Virobloc safety ring. This one boasts a matte black finish, but still functions the same as ever: twist it and it locks the knife in position (either open or closed). Twist it back the other way to unlock it yet again.