Homemade opinel locking ring

[davek14]

I have a friend on vacation who is bringing me back an Opinel #4. I always wanted one of the leetle suckers but the lack of a locking ring stopped me from buying one.

She would love it if I carried it, so would I. Is a homemade locking ring possible, even a rudimentary one? Or another idea?

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

If this is a gift from a friend, I'd just be inclined to carry it as is, for a while at least. I think she'd appreciate your carrying it and using it as such, without indicating any need to change it. You might decide the locking ring isn't essential for it anyway, in the long run. I'm guessing this is why Opinel hasn't included the lock on their smallest knives anyway.

For what it's worth, I ordinarily would feel the same as you. I've generally been inclined toward the locking versions myself, if looking to spend money on one. But as a gift from a friend, it may be an opportunity to try it out without having to buy it. That's a pretty good deal.


David

 

[jackknife]

I'd just use it the way it is.

Remember, the locking ring on the Opinel wasn't used until 1955, and only when market surveys indicated that the U.s. market and a fw others wanted the lock. For most of Europe and the rest of the world, they used the opinel just as it was conceived, as a low cost friction folder. Friction folders are safe as long as you keep in mind that is a pocket knife, not a ax, sword, or combat weapon. Friction folders go back a few thousand years, so they must work well as a light duty knife. I've used opines since 1982, and I very rarely use the lock for a quick cutting job.

 

[davek14]

I've no problem at all using it as a friction folder. I want to keep it in my watch pocket and not be afraid to just stick my fingers in and get it. I thought of a little pocket slip or a rubber band but I don't really want something that is separate while I'm using the knife.

Dave: She knows I like to play with my toys If I tinker with it, she'll know I like it.