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Opinel #6 handle modification (small job)

I had to get an Opinel knife a while back. They came highly recommended by someone I trust which is as close to holding a gun to my head as you can get without the gun. lol

I bought the Opinel #6. It's the smallest model they have with a lock. I have to admit the claims about the carbon steel proved true IMO. Takes a great edge and holds it well. The blade is thin and slices like a monster. Since the blade is the knife IMO these are a must have for any collection or pocket. Simple, no frills excellent knives. These make great loaner knives also. Something you are not ashamed to hand someone and if they "accidentally" put it in their pocket it won't break your bank. OR, if you "accidentally" put someone else's Opinel in YOUR pocket you can be assured it didn't break his/her bank. :)

However, the handle was a little uncomfortable to me. So I shaped it to be more comfortable. I had seen this mod done by someone else (youtube I think) which gave me the idea. Of course if you sand one spot on wood you need to do the whole thing. For now I am leaving the wood natural with only some moisture treatment. Here are a couple of pictures (before and after).

The handle is more comfortable now making it even more pleasurable to use. I also forced a patina on the blade and sanded a little wood to expose the nail nick a little more. This picture was taken before the "nick mod". It's not much anyway.

2 members like this

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Ron Cooper on July 18, 2013 at 15:56

Kudos! Nice work reshaping that handle to conform with your comfort zone.

Permalink Reply by Bob Robinson on July 19, 2013 at 7:02

Nice work Jack. I also carry an Opinel # 6 Carbone and use daily. It does as you say, holds a good edge and will not break the bank if I lose or loan. I like the light weight, thin blade and carbon steel.

Permalink Reply by Jack Haskins, Jr. on July 21, 2013 at 8:55

Here is the nail nick mod I did. I'll show it just cuz. I've been told you guys like pictures.

In MemoriamPermalink Reply by Robert Burris on July 21, 2013 at 9:28

Thanks, Jack, good Job. We do like pictures, I was lost when I misplaced my camera.

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by John Bamford on August 16, 2013 at 10:36

Hi Guys , I have been carrying a No12 around for a little over 20 years now . Great knife, best one I have owned, alas in this country it would get me put in jail, I guess it is a bit Crocodile Dundee but it's a tool not a weapon in my mind. Must get the hang of putting pics on I think you would like to see the old girl.

In MemoriamPermalink Reply by Robert Burris on August 16, 2013 at 10:46

We sure would John. An EDC for 20 years, is a treat.

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by John Bamford on August 16, 2013 at 10:48

I will work it out over the weekend, hopefully, Robert.

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by John Bamford on August 16, 2013 at 12:16

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by John Bamford on August 16, 2013 at 12:21

Maybe sort of getting the hang of this, old dog and new tricks as they say. Anyway my edc of the past 20yrs rather used but still good. Will try to do my new edc soon new GEC , think I could be very happy with it ,hope it does as well as this has.

Permalink Reply by Ron Cooper on August 16, 2013 at 12:42

John, I almost feel compelled to pat you on the head and give you a Milk Bone biscuit; consistent with your "old dog" reference.

You are doing great, my friend! That's an excellent picture of your trusty Opinel. Bravo! Keep up the good work conquering those illusory computer demons.

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by John Bamford on August 16, 2013 at 16:49

Thanks Ron , I will try the cody Scout next.

Permalink Reply by peter force on September 9, 2013 at 10:28

i am liking the age on that knife my friend... the hand patina on the wood gives it nice color.

John Bamford said:

Maybe sort of getting the hang of this, old dog and new tricks as they say. Anyway my edc of the past 20yrs rather used but still good. Will try to do my new edc soon new GEC , think I could be very happy with it ,hope it does as well as this has.