Love it or hate it, for the past seventy years, the iconic Virobloc ring has been synonymous with Opinel – that distinctive twist-to-lock collar that’s graced virtually every folder from the storied French knife maker since 1955. But tradition, even the most hallowed kind, sometimes needs a gentle nudge into the 21st century. It turns out Opinel agrees.
Say hello to the Néo6, a compact EDC folder that represents the most significant mechanical evolution in Opinel’s recent history, introducing their patent-pending Opiflex system to a world that thought this company would never change.
Rethinking The Ring
The Virobloc system was revolutionary for its time – a simple C-shaped metal ring that could secure the blade in either open or closed positions with a satisfying twist. It’s been museum-worthy design for decades, literally earning recognition from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum as one of the world’s 100 most beautiful objects. But beauty and practicality don’t always align perfectly, and the traditional Virobloc could feel clunky in daily use, especially for those seeking a more intuitive experience.
And while we’ve long been fans of Opinel (and their quirky locking system), often times, it’s the most controversial topic among newer knife enthusiasts unaware of the history.
The new Opiflex mechanism takes a decidedly different approach. Rather than requiring manual manipulation of a locking ring, this spring-loaded system automatically holds the blade securely in position without technically “locking” it at all. Think refined slipjoint mechanics – the blade stays put when deployed but can be closed with deliberate pressure, eliminating the fumbling that occasionally accompanies the traditional Virobloc under gloves or in poor conditions.
More Than Mechanism
Beyond its revolutionary retention system, the Néo6 showcases thoughtful design throughout. The 2.75-inch stainless steel blade features a deliberately rounded tip that makes this knife as people-friendly as possible. At just 0.88 ounces, this folder practically disappears in your pocket while maintaining Opinel’s legendary ergonomics in a more compact 3.625-inch closed length.
The handle maintains Opinel’s signature silhouette and still offers modern material choices: sustainably sourced French walnut, Italian olive wood, or FSBE-certified African ebony. Each variant features food-safe protective varnish and includes a recycled leather lanyard to finish things off.
Legal Implications and Urban Appeal
In an increasingly complex landscape of knife regulations – particularly across Europe where Opinel calls home – non-locking mechanisms often navigate legal restrictions more easily than traditional locks. This positions the Néo6 as genuinely urban-friendly EDC that won’t raise eyebrows in regulated environments. And, the rounded tip further reinforces this approachable character.
Spec Sheet
Blade Length: 2.75″ (7 cm)
Blade Steel: Stainless steel with rounded tip
Overall Length: 6.5″ open, 3.625″ closed
Handle Materials: French walnut, Italian olive wood, or African ebony
Lock Type: Opiflex blade retention system (non-locking)
Weight: 0.88 oz (25 g)
Finish: Food-safe protective varnish
Manufacturing Origin: Made in Chambéry, France
Pricing & Availability
The Opinel Néo6 is available now through authorized dealers and the company’s website with retail prices starting at $35.
Recap
Opinel Opiflex Néo6 Knife Collection
Opinel abandons seventy years of Virobloc tradition with the Néo6, introducing their patent-pending Opiflex retention system in a compact, urban-friendly folder that maintains the brand’s design heritage while embracing modern EDC realities.
