Opinel N°08 Olive Wood

The Opinel N°08 Olive Wood keeps the proven dimensions of the classic No. 8 but gives the knife a more distinctive, Mediterranean character. An 8.5 cm stainless blade handles everyday cutting, while the dense olive-wood handle adds warm yellow-to-orange tones and a naturally varied grain.

The martensitic stainless-steel blade has Opinel’s traditional Yatagan profile, with a raised tip and convex grind intended to balance cutting ability, strength and straightforward resharpening. Opinel specifies a hardness of 55–57 HRC. Stainless construction improves corrosion resistance for normal use, but it should still be cleaned after contact with food, salt or acidic material.

The olive-wood handle is hard, smooth to the touch and naturally patterned. Opinel varnishes it to help protect against moisture and dirt, but it remains real wood and benefits from sensible care. Compared with standard beech, the feel and function stay familiar; the difference lies in the richer grain and polished appearance.

The rotating Virobloc safety ring consists of a fixed section and a sliding stainless section. Rotate it after opening to help prevent the blade from folding during use, and rotate it again when closed for safer transport. It is a simple mechanical system, but it only works properly when deliberately set; treat the knife as a sharp tool and keep fingers clear of the folding path.

At this size, the N°08 works well for picnic preparation, cutting cord, opening packaging and routine camp or workshop tasks. It is a versatile pocket knife rather than a pry bar, screwdriver or chopping tool. Use controlled cuts on an appropriate surface, and choose a specialised tool for levering, heavy batoning or electrical work.

Choose the Olive Wood edition when the handle’s character matters as much as the practical format. Every piece of olive wood shows different dense, twisting grain, so small visual differences are part of the material rather than a production flaw.

For long service, wipe the blade clean and dry after use and wash by hand only. Do not put the knife in a dishwasher or soak the wooden handle; heat, detergent and prolonged moisture can make wood swell and affect opening. Sharpen at a consistent angle when needed, allow the joint to dry fully, and store the knife locked closed.

See the rest of our Opinel knife collection to compare traditional woods, multifunction models and outdoor-specific handles. The N°08 platform is especially useful when you want a compact blade with enough handle for controlled everyday work.

Features & Specs

• Model: N°08 Olive Wood
• Category: Folding pocket knife
• Blade: Martensitic stainless steel, Yatagan profile
• Blade length: 8.5 cm
• Handle: Varnished olive wood
• Retention / lock: Virobloc, open and closed
• Colour: Yellow-orange wood with natural grain
• Made in: France