I field tested the Opinel No. 12 Explore for two months for trailspace.com. Excerpts of these tests are included here. For a complete written review, please go to trailspace.com. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for one of the most sensible tests of an Opinel knife that I have seen. You tested it for what it is designed to do [other than to use the gut hook] Thank you too for pointing out that the Opinel is not designed to be batonned. It pushes the Viroblock into the material of the handle and loses adjustment on the lock. I have an Opinel 12 Explore and it is so useful that it has become my bench knife. We are not allowed to carry a knife of this size in the UK but I can take it camping wrapped up in my rucksack. Thanks.
+Pat French Thank you for your comment. It is a very capable knife. I didn't want to kill a creature just to test the gut hook, but it sufficed in my cord cutting use.
I have a first look and field test video of this knife. It's just ok for me, a little bit gimmicky but it does do what it needs to do. I don't carry it but keep it in one of my bags as a back up. You did a good job on this video. Thanks for sharing.
Didn't know this knife existed, been using Opinel's since forever, fantastic but can jam up when the wooden handle gets soaked. A plastic handle would be great in wetter climates, the garish colours not as nice looking as the wood but harder to loose. Would usually shy away from anything with junk in the handle but I might give this another look.
+gabe v No, the edges have been smoothed for comfort. I suppose you could use the hook knife (I tried it and it's okay) or file the edge to sharpen it, but the knife spine does s great job as a striker.
+dbsutton85 Yes. It is on the other side of lanyard slider. Please see this for more details and, if you find it useful, give it a thumbs up. Thank you for your question! www.trailspace.com/gear/opinel/no.-12-explore/