The back of the “Opi-Fighter” broke off. Good to know that now. All I did was drop it on some concrete. Re-worked it into the “Opi-Defender.” I like this tip better. It’s like a little kubaton.
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Opinel No. 6 Olivewood
The perfect little picnic knife. Needs no modification in my opinion.
Intro to Opinel knife Modification: Part 1
Opinel knives are currently offered in eleven numbered sizes: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13. The No. 1 Opinel was discontinued in 1932.
More History
The main sizes that I modify are 9, 10, and 12.
I find there is a little more meat on the blade and the handle to work with. The No.12 is a beast. Just the piece of steel is pretty impressive. I have not modified a N0.13 yet.
I have modded a couple of 7’s.
I like both the carbone and stainless blades.
When modding a carbone, there is an extra design element to play with in the blade patina process.
The No.8’s that I modify are usually the raw handle Ebauche.
I have enjoyed working on a stock oak and walnut handle No. 8 also.
The oak handle “Oliver Twist” is about to be the giveaway when I reach 1000 followers on BladeObsessionOne.
If you are buying your first Opinel, the classic No. 8 is always a great start. It is their most versatile and most sold size. It will give you the appreciation of the design and quality of these knives. It is in the middle of all the sizes and is a perfect picnic or cheese knife. In my opinion, as far as a pocket folders go, this knife is one of the best tools you can buy for around $12.
I use a Lansky sharpener and I get my blades razor sharp.
For a really light blade, my favorite carry is a No. 6 with an olive wood handle. The No. 6 is the smallest Opinel with the Virobloc locking design.
To be continued.
Fresh Mods on the Block
Here is a number 9 and a 1o Mid Mod.
Olive Wood Ebauche Opinel Modification
I really love the smooth feel of the olive wood handles.
Opinel Knives in Mid-Modification
A few favorites from last year. The bottom one has changed quite a bit. I’ll post a recent photo next
Adam and Eve | A pair of walnut Opinel Ebauche Mods
I love the rich tones of the walnut handles. The dense wood makes detailing easier.
My Latest Opinel Modifications
Here are a few recent ones. These have a nice amount of tourquise inlay.
Big Sexy Number 12 Opinel Modification
Not Sure where this one is going, but it’s a nice piece of wood to work
Number 10 Opinel Modification
I call this one “The Mermaid”. It has a turquoise inlay, and a copper acrylic sort of patina on the handle. I gave the top of the blade a bit more of a wave. Mustard patina design.
Number 6 Olivewood Opinel
Perfect for a little horseradish smeared rib-eye.
Stingray Opinel Modification with Mustard Patina
Opinel No. 8 ebauche. Mustard drops patina. Stingray skin handle accent. Thumb post added for one hand opening.
Dremel Dreams
An Openel Moder’s favorite tool could certainly be the Dremel. I have had mine for years, it is a 5 speed corded model from the last century. If I need a new one, I’ll probably get the cordless. I have a fair amount of accessories for it. The little sanding drums are perfect for shaping the handles. One of my best investments was the Dremel Multi-Vise It can solidly hold the tool and allow you hold your knives with 2 hands.
“The Gardener” Opinel Modification
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The Reaper | Opinel Modification with a Bad-Ass Attitude.
The Wizard – Opinel Modification with a Citrine Crystal
Two No.12 Opinel Mods. “Cain and Abel”
“Opi-Fighter” Mod- Custom 1 Hand opening Opinel
Opinel No. 12 Custom Wood Handle
Started my first No.12 mod. Also just got this Mora carving knife. Love it. Nice clean chips flying out of this handle. The 12 is a nice piece of wood to dig into.
Blade Mod on an Opinel No.12
Last cuts on the carbon steel blade.
The whole process took about a half hour.
I stopped many time to sponge some cool water on the blade. This steel is pretty thick on a 12. On some of the smaller mods, I have cooked off the tips by accident.
