Opinel N°08 Padouk

The Opinel N°08 Padouk is a refined version of the classic No. 8, pairing the familiar 8.5 cm stainless blade with a dense padouk handle. Purple-brown, pink and red tones run through the fine grain, giving this edition a richer appearance while preserving the compact, functional construction that makes the N°08 useful.

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 dense padouk handle has a fine grain and a colour range from purple-brown to pink with darker veins. A varnished finish helps protect it from moisture and dirt. The rounded profile remains comfortable and uncomplicated, so this premium material changes the visual and tactile character without making the knife delicate or overly ornamental.

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.

The Padouk is the considered choice for someone who wants the traditional Opinel format in a denser, more decorative wood. Colour and veining naturally vary from knife to knife; that variation is an expected part of genuine padouk.

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 Padouk
• Category: Folding pocket knife
• Blade: Martensitic stainless steel, Yatagan profile
• Blade length: 8.5 cm
• Handle: Varnished padouk wood
• Retention / lock: Virobloc, open and closed
• Colour: Red-brown / pink natural grain
• Made in: France