The Opinel Slim Line No 12 is a great filet knife option if you want to filet fish for your campfire.

I got my hands on the Opinel Slim 12 Olive Tree knife, and boy, what a ride it’s been. If you’re into knives that are as much about craftsmanship as they are about adventure, you’re in for a treat. So, grab a seat, and let’s dive into my rollercoaster of experiences with this beautiful piece of art.

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The First Embrace: Beauty in Your Hands

From the get-go, the Opinel Slim made a statement with its olive wood handle. I mean, have you ever held a piece of nature in your hand? The warmth of the wood, the way it fit my grip – it was like holding the essence of a forest adventure right there. Ok, I’m slightly exaggerating but the look and feel of the Opinel are truly great.

Alternatives in Size and Handle Material

I went for the no 12 size since I think it’s an ideal allrounder to fillet popular species such as trout or bass. The size 8 and 10 can still handle these species but the no 12 has the advantage that you can also tackle larger species such as salmon or striped bass.

When it comes to the handle material I like the olive wood. The big advantage of that type of wood is the fact that it doesn’t swell when wet – a crucial advantage in a fish filleting knife in my eyes. But if you want you can also go for a beech or padouk wood handle which also look and feel great.

Getting Down to Business with the Opinel Slim Line

Alright, let’s talk sharp – the 12cm Sandvik stainless steel blade is like a magician’s wand. Seriously, this thing cuts through stuff like it’s a hot knife through butter. I was so pumped about this blade’s sharpness that I went on a slicing spree – cardboard, rope, you name it. Clean cuts every single time, and the smile on my face just kept getting wider. The only downside I’ve found is the lower degree of blade flexibility on the Opinel, for example when compared to the Henckel’s Zwilling Four Star or the Rapala Filet Knife. But considering the fact that the Opinel is a knife to bring along on a trip and not meant as your go to filet knife in the kitchen, that’s ok.

It’s a Trust Thing: The User Experience

You know what’s cooler than a sidekick? A knife with a Virobloc safety ring. It’s like a little security guard for your adventures. Whether the blade is out and ready or tucked away, that locking mechanism has my back. And the best part? The knife’s so lightweight that I barely felt it in my pocket.

Geek Time: Let’s Crunch Some Numbers

Before I dive into more of my tales, let’s break down the specs of the Slim Line 12 Olive Tree that give it that extra oomph:

Overall Length: 27 cm / 10.5 inches

Blade Length: 12.7 cm / 5 inches

Blade Material: Sandvik Stainless Steel

Handle Material: Olive Wood

Weight: 85gr / 3 oz

City Streets to Mountain Peaks: Versatility Rules

I’m a city slicker with a wild side, and this knife handled both worlds like a champ. Slicing apples for a snack or prepping kindling for a bonfire – it’s like this knife was built for any kind of adventure. And the size? It’s like Goldilocks got it just right – not too big, not too small, but just perfect.

Built Tough: Adventures? No Problem

Alright, confession time – I’m not the gentlest soul when it comes to gear. But guess what? The Slim Line 12 held its ground like a true warrior. The stainless steel blade? Sharp as ever, even after all the challenges I threw at it. Taking care of this beauty? Easy peasy – a little wipe here, a drop of oil there, and voila, good as new. I like sharpening my filet knives regularly as I am convinced it gives them a longer life and it makes filleting fish more safe (since you’re less likely) to slip with the knife.

The Grand Finale: A Keeper in Every Sense

So, there you have it – my whirlwind romance with the Opinel Slim Line folding filet knife. It’s more than just a tool; it’s become a part of my stories. The touch of that olive wood, the reliability of that blade – Opinel nailed it. If you’re on the hunt for a folding knife that’s not just a companion but a partner in crime for your escapades, the Slim Line 12 is your ticket to adventure. It’s not just a knife; it’s a memory waiting to be made.

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Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you click on one of them and end up purchasing a product we earn a small commission at no extra cost for you. We only recommend products we believe in ourselves.