Okapi vs Opinel - Comparison??

[Fort Henry Custom Knives]

I'm looking for anyone that owns or has owned both an Okapi and an Opinel. Would like to hear some opinions about the steel of each, the locks performance under normal conditions (no Spine Whackers need apply) , the ease of carry in the pocket, etc.

I do not own either but have been intrigued more by the Okapi due to its primitive flavor and the fact that is has Carbon Steel. I have also read several articles about these (one very good one by Steven Dick in one of the KNIVES Annuals), and they are touted to be a great bang for the buck.

The only place that I have seen the Okapis for sale on the net is at Ragweed Forge, great price and of course an excellent fellow to deal with.

Anyone with experience with both that could provide a short comparison please feel free to chime in. Thanks in advance!

 

[yobbos1]

I have both. The carbon steel in the Okapi will not hold an edge nearly as long as an Opinel and only the large model Okapi locks. The newer production models of Opinel lock open and closed while the Okapis have a ratcheting action which makes them completely safe for pocket carry. I like the Okapis but I much prefer the cutting abilities of the Opinels and the fact that the smaller models lock.

 

[ELDE]

Grind and overall fit and finish are better on my carbon steel Opinel N°8 , and it cuts longer due to the convex edge.

My Okapi has a better polished blade, is longer than a N°8, is closing with a loud snap ( fingers : take care !!!).

I can't choose that why I own both.

ELDE

 

[pmel018]

Hi Guys
I also have both, the Okapi came dead blunt, had to pay a pro to profile the blade correctly. It is easy to keep sharp and the lock is very cool, areal piece of history. I have many Opinels from largest to smallest all came razor sharp, also easy to keep that way, the lock is not as positive but works well, another piece of history.
Phil

 

[Fort Henry Custom Knives]

YOBBOS1 - I didn't realize that only the largest Okapi had the Lock, I see that you are right. Thanks for pointing that out.

Thanks for the replies guys.