In the quest to fine tune our Overland kit, we constantly come across unique items that find their way into our lives. Lately, we’ve been downsizing. We switched from a full-sized Tundra to a much smaller FJ Cruiser. Now, with this smaller platform, we must also downsize what we pack. As I look to our cooking items, I realize there is room for improvement. The Pinnacle Pro Stove I’ve been eyeing will surely save a lot of space while still providing the cooking BTU’s required. Even our mismatched knife set could be better. That’s were Opinel of France comes in.
Opinel of France
Opinel, founded in 1890 in France, has been making some of the coolest knives for 130 years. I was introduced to their products at Outdoor Retailer last winter and recently received their Nomad Cooking Kit. At first glance I figured these knives must be tiny. Until I realized they have a clever yet simple folding mechanism to greatly save space when packed. Included in the Nomad Kit is a small cutting board, two knives, a peeler and a cleaning cloth that entire kit can be wrapped in for travel.
Originally designed with the camper or backpacker in mind, the Nomad Kit includes the bare essentials. Since I’m employing this kit for Overland travel, I’ve already supplemented the kit with a No.06 Folding Knife. Only because I feel I’d get more use out of a third blade than the included peeler. The Nomad Kit utilizes the multi purpose cloth to wrap and secure the knives and cutting board for easy transport. In fact, the kit will fit in the side pocket of most hiking packs.
We’ve found the folding mechanism to be beautifully simple and safe. A rotating collar both locks the blade in the folded position as well as the extended position. Preventing any unwanted movement of the blade while in use. The beech wood handles of the Nomad Kit are large and comfortable in hand. Providing a solid grip when slicing and dicing during food prep. The large No.12 serrated blade makes short work of fibrous meat. While the straight blade of the No.10 knife is perfect for more delicate cutting. However, the included No.06 Peeler is an odd item in my opinion. In my years of camping, I can’t remember the last time I needed to peel something. That’s why I purchased the same sized No.06 folding knife.
Features & Specs
- Cutting Board – 8″ x 5″ x .5″
- No.12 Serrated – 10″ x 1.25″ x 1.25″
- No.10 Corkscrew – 9″ x 1″ x 1″
- No.06 Folding Peeler – 6.5″ x .75″ x .75″
- Cleaning/Carry Cloth – 13″ x 13″
- Blades – Sandvik Stainless Steel 12C27 Mod.
- Handles/Board – Beech Wood
- Cloth – Microfiber Polyester
- Weight – 14 oz
- MSRP $85
Final Thoughts
Since we started using the Opinel brand folding knives in our Overland adventures, we’ve added to the collection. The addition of a No.12 Fillet Knife for the optimistic fisherman should he actually catch something. As well as an additional No.10 Folding Knife to make a pair of razor sharp steak knives. My wife makes a mean Fillet Mignon. The nice thing about adding a couple extra folding knives is that they occupy very little space in our camp kitchen. And there’s no risk of accidentally cutting a finger when they are stowed. The blades are of high quality stainless steel and very sharp out of the box.
Additionally, Opinel makes a wide assortment of conventional chef knives, garden tools, cutting boards and accessories. So be sure to check out their website and figure out what your cooking needs require. You won’t be disappointed.
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