Since 1890, Opinel has maintained an almost stubborn commitment to simplicity. Joseph Opinel’s original design philosophy, to create a reliable tool for workers and farmers, hasn’t wavered much, even as the brand expanded from its Savoie origins into global recognition. The No. 10, introduced as part of the formalized 12-size range in 1897, has always been the larger, more versatile sibling in the family. At roughly 4” of blade length, it straddles the line between pocket knife and kitchen prep tool.
For its latest limited-edition of the No. 10, the French knifemaker has looked to the hand-forging techniques of Japanese master blacksmith Nigara Hamono to make one of its most unique releases yet.
Weaving Cultures Together
What makes the Shiori variant special isn’t a departure from this heritage but rather an elevation of it. The collaboration emerged through Atsuko Totsuka-Blanchet, founder of Shiori, who bridges Japanese craftsmanship with French daily life. Her concept of Yōnobi (”functional beauty”) aligns perfectly with Opinel’s own design values, creating a partnership that feels kismet.
Hammer Time
The blade tells the real story here. Crafted from VG7 multilayer stainless steel by Nigara Hamono — a workshop with 350 years of heritage in Tsugaru Uchihamono cutlery — each knife receives the full Tsuchime treatment. This traditional Japanese hammering technique creates the blade’s distinctive irregular surface texture, which isn’t just for show. The hammered finish prevents food from sticking during prep work, a practical benefit that would make Joseph Opinel proud.
The steel itself deserves attention, offering 63 HRC hardness for edge retention while maintaining the workability needed for hand-forging. The layered construction reveals itself in the hamon pattern that emerges during sharpening, creating that characteristic wavy line along the cutting edge. Each blade bears the blacksmith’s kanji near the spine, a signature that speaks to individual craftsmanship in an age of mass production.
Material Harmony
The flamed maple handle provides visual balance against the hammered steel. Where many collaborations feel forced, this pairing works because both materials share similar organic irregularities. For one, the wood’s tiger-stripe figuring complements rather than competes with the blade’s texture. The matte black Virobloc ring, Opinel’s signature locking mechanism since 1955, also bridges both elements while maintaining the knife’s traditional functionality.
That Virobloc system remains as innovative as ever. Twist to lock open or closed, twist back to release. No springs, no complex mechanisms — just reliable mechanical advantage that’s served the brand well for seven decades.
Spec Sheet
Model: No. 10 Shiori
Blade Length: 3.92”
Blade Steel: VG7 multilayer stainless steel, Tsuchime hand-hammered
Handle: Flamed maple
Locking Ring: Virobloc, matte black anodized
Hardness: 63 HRC
Overall: Hand-forged by Nigara Hamono in Japan
Limited Edition?: Yes, 200 (U.S.)
Includes: Custom maple wood presentation case
Price: $380
Pricing & Availability
Limited to just 200 units in the U.S., the Opinel No. 10 Shiori is unfortunately already sold out from Opinel’s website, but might pop up on the secondary market. Each knife includes a custom maple wood presentation case and lifetime warranty, positioning this as much a collector’s piece as a working tool.
Recap
Opinel No. 10 Shiori Limited Edition
Heritage knifemaker Opinel partnered with Japanese master blacksmith Nigara Hamono for this hammered version of the No. 10 using VG7 steel.
