A Nordic Birch Handle Graces the Limited Opinel Folding Knife

Opinel’s iconic No. 08 folding knife has received a delightful upgrade in the form of the Sampo Curly Birch limited edition 08. This version replaces the classic wood handle with a special Nordic silver birch, introducing a distinctive touch of depth and color to an already naturally beautiful knife, all at a fraction of the cost typically associated with special edition knives.

In an ever more polarized global market, where choices often boil down to low-quality replicas or high-priced originals, we are consistently thrilled to discover designs that blend quality with affordability. Opinel’s range of folding knives perfectly embodies this balance. Crafted in the French Alps, they showcase a straightforward yet effective design, offering functionality and aesthetics. Notably, we appreciate the user-friendly ring lock that ensures blade security during use and facilitates easy opening and closing.

Opinel’s Budget-Friendly Knives with Lifetime Warranty

When we initially set out to purchase an Opinel, we were anticipating price ranges between $50 to $100. To our pleasant surprise, we discovered that two of the company’s top sellers, the No. 07 and No. 08, were priced at a mere $19 each. We assumed it might be a special sale or clearance, but then realized that this was the standard manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). In fact, several of Opinel’s other folding knives are priced at or below $20, with most falling under $50. Furthermore, they come with a limited lifetime warranty.

While the new No. 08 Sampo Curly Birch isn’t as budget-friendly as the original models, at $70, it’s still significantly less expensive than what you might spend on a special-edition folding knife from other well-known brands. This knife elevates the classic wood-handled Opinel design by incorporating sustainably sourced curly birch from Finland’s Karelia forests.

According to Opinel’s explanation, the harsh environmental conditions in the birch’s specific habitat lead to its natural twisting while it grows. This unique growth pattern results in distinct hard and soft layers, creating captivating marble-like swirls. The company notes that the wood’s color can range from pale yellow to light brown, and the veining may vary, ensuring that each handle possesses an individual and unique appearance.

Key Features of Opinel’s Sampo Curly Birch Knife

In addition to the new wood, each knife shares the same features that have made the No. 8 a best-selling Opinel model. These include a 3.2-inch (8.1 cm) stainless steel blade, a smooth-folding mechanism, and a “Virobloc” ring lock that easily twists to secure and release the blade in both the open and closed positions.

Regarding the “Sampo” name, it’s a reference to a mystical object in Finnish mythology that bestowed wealth upon its possessor. However, it was eventually stolen, lost, or destroyed, and its appearance remains a mystery. Opinel playfully suggests that the No. 08 Sampo Curly Birch could be the actual Sampo.

Sampo Curly Birch: A Limited Edition Knife with Limited Availability

While the Sampo’s price may not pose as much of a barrier compared to other special edition knives, its availability could be a challenge. Opinel intends to release the Sampo in the United States in early November, offering a limited quantity of just 300 units. The knife is already marked as “sold out,” but those still interested can provide their email on the provided link to receive information and notifications.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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