Looking for wholesale knife to sell similar to Opinel

D

djb

Joined
Jul 17, 2018
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We run a fall harvest orchard business and I would like to sell an affordable knife that is made in the USA. I like the form and function of Opinel, I don't like france...is there an American option that is similar? Foldable, wood handle, 2.5 to 4 inch blade, lower price...thanks for any insight.
 
Opinel has mastered the art of producing this particular knife & makes it to sell as inexpensively as possible. I doubt that even if it were to be made in say, China, they could reduce the price while maintaining the quality. The French have made millions of them. One is even in MOMA's permeant collection of design objects. I see this as an attempt to reinvent the wheel, which is not necessarily a bad thing, just really difficult. Good Luck :)
 
I don't know of an American equivalent that's made today ( not sure what you have against France ) but you could go with something like the Case mini blackhorn if it has to be a folder.
If it doesn't have to be a folder, the OKC OLD HICKORY paring knife would be a good choice.
 
Djb....

It will be impossible to find a knife similar to the quality and form of the Opinel with a US pedigree..
Definitely could consult third party manufacturers though economy of scale to produce a knife would mean such a large order plus set up fees that it would be impractical for your harvest gift shop.
The Opinel is such a non intimidating knife that any of your guests would feel comfortable using it slicing apples, cutting pumpkin vines what have you.
Though Case and Buck do make zytel handled knives cost will be more...
Best bet overlook your French stigma.......
 
I think you would probably like Russian knives. Check out Kizylar Knives. They are not dirt cheap like Opinels.
 
Not a folding knife but Dexter Russell sells a bucket of paring knives.

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They offer a sheath for them for a couple dollars each.
 
mwhich50 said:
I think you would probably like Russian knives. Check out Kizylar Knives. They are not dirt cheap like Opinels.
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1) Do you think someone who runs an apple orchard is going to sell Kizylars to people who came to pick some apples, eat a few donuts, and drink cider? I would think the knives would have to be very inexpensive.

2) Kinda off topic....the guy hates France. Why do you think he would like Russia? :)
 
Cheapest you'll find that are U.S. made will probably be bear and sons, but they will still be about triple the price and their quality is sketchy.

If your xenophobia doesn't extend to New Zealand you should check out the svord peasant knives. Not quite the same as an opinel but they are a pretty neat budget knife, and they have wood handled options.
 
What I would suggest you do is to get a good idea in your head of what you want and then visit a local bricks and mortar store to partner with and order some up.

Starting with a small order to feel out just how much people visiting an orchard want to buy a knife at the gift shop.
 
Danke42 said:
Starting with a small order to feel out just how much people visiting an orchard want to buy a knife at the gift shop.
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Exactly. I don't see people buying a knife at an apple orchard as a souvenir, they'd probably just get a tshirt or a hat. I could see them buying one to use when they are there, possibly, and I think Rupestris Rupestris 's suggestion knocked it out of the park. Cut up some apples, cheese, summer sausage, open up some cheese curds (yum) for their lunch, then toss the knife in the glove box or something.
 
marcinek said:
1) Do you think someone who runs an apple orchard is going to sell Kizylars to people who came to pick some apples, eat a few donuts, and drink cider? I would think the knives would have to be very inexpensive.
I guess you are right, but they do have some traditional slipjoints.

2) Kinda off topic....the guy hates France. Why do you think he would like Russia? :)
Click to expand...
Just a hunch:rolleyes:.
 
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