Opinel No. 08 Carbone Carbon Steel Folding Pocket Knife with Beechwood Handle and Virobloc Lock, Made in France

Ten dollars for a knife made in France with real carbon steel and a proper locking ring? Unbeatable. Mine came hair-splitting sharp out of the box and the beechwood handle feels great in the pocket.

I've owned three of these over the years and they just work. The blade takes an edge in seconds on a strop and the Virobloc lock is simple and reliable. Yes, carbon steel will patina, but that's part of the charm. Clean it, wipe it dry, done.

Cuts beautifully and the lock is solid once you figure out the rotation. Just remember it's carbon steel — I've already got some dark spotting on the blade after cutting apples. Doesn't affect performance, but if you want zero maintenance, get the stainless version.

Timeless design, works perfectly.

The blade was very stiff to open the first week, almost to the point I thought about returning it. It's loosened up nicely with use and now opens smoothly. For the sale price I'm satisfied, just be patient with the break-in.

I'm 67 and have carried pocket knives since I was a boy, and this little Opinel reminds me of the ones we used on the farm — honest, simple tools. The carbon steel holds a working edge better than anything near this price, and the wooden handle has that warm feel plastic never matches. I keep mine in the garden apron for pruning and twine. Ordered a second as a gift for my grandson.

Disappointed with quality control on mine. The blade had noticeable side-to-side play right out of the box, more than I'd expect even for a budget knife. Customer service was responsive about a replacement, so maybe I got a lemon, but still frustrating.

Carries weightless in the pocket and slices paper-thin tomato slices no problem. The lock ring takes some getting used to but works fine. Minor ding because the handle soaked up some moisture on a camping trip and swelled slightly.

I use this thing constantly — opening packages, trimming zip ties, slicing fruit at lunch, whittling at the campfire. The carbon blade sharpened up scary sharp on my stone and has held up with occasional touch-ups. The patina developing on the blade actually looks cool, like it has a story. The Virobloc lock gives me confidence when doing heavier cuts. At $10 with the coupon it's honestly the best value in my whole knife drawer.

Excellent edge geometry and the beechwood is nicer than expected at this price. Only quirk: the ring lock requires two hands for me to open reliably, which isn't ideal mid-task. Still recommend it as a budget EDC or first folding knife.

Came scary sharp out of the box. Beautiful little knife.

It's a functional, well-made folder, but the carbon steel needs immediate attention after any wet use or it rusts fast — learned that the hard way the first week. The action is also loose by design, so don't expect a modern assisted-open feel. If you accept it as a traditional working knife, it's a good one; if you want modern convenience, look elsewhere.