Opinel N°12 Carbon Folding Knife – XC90, 12 cm, Virobloc
Opinel N°12 Carbon Folding Knife – XC90, 12 cm, Virobloc
- Brand:OPINEL
- Product Code: N°12 Carbon – XC90, 12 см, Virobloc
- Availability: In Stock
18.00 € / 35.20 лв.
20.00 € / 39.12 лв.09 10 2026 08 11 2026
Opinel N°12 Carbon is a large classic folding knife with a 12 cm XC90 carbon-steel blade, comfortable 16 cm beech handle and the characteristic Virobloc® locking system. It is the choice for users who value a keen cutting edge, straightforward sharpening and the traditional character of carbon steel.
N°12 is one of the larger practical Opinel sizes. The manufacturer positions it for tougher materials, agricultural and outdoor tasks, as well as serving larger foods such as cheeses and cured meats.
Carbon steel is historically associated with the classic Opinel folding knife. In the N°12 it is combined with a large 12 cm blade and 16 cm handle, creating a practical configuration for users who prefer a more substantial working size.
A generous working length for practical cutting, material processing and food preparation.
High-carbon steel known for its effective cutting edge, good wear resistance and straightforward resharpening.
The large handle provides stable support and a comfortable full grip when working with the 12 cm blade.
The safety ring allows the blade to be secured both during use and in the folded position.
Opinel describes XC90 as a very hard carbon steel with excellent cutting properties, good wear resistance and easy resharpening.
The key advantage of carbon steel is its cutting-edge behaviour. The material can be sharpened relatively easily and is often preferred by users who appreciate a traditional blade and are comfortable maintaining it regularly.
Opinel identifies carbon steel as the historic steel of the brand, linked to the classic folding knives developed from the time of Joseph Opinel.
XC90 carbon steel is sensitive to moisture and may develop staining, patina or corrosion if left wet. Correct maintenance is therefore an important part of owning and using the N°12 Carbon.
After contact with water or moist products, the blade should be cleaned and dried promptly.
Opinel recommends maintaining the blade and pivot area with suitable oil.
Do not leave the knife in a damp environment or store it for prolonged periods with a wet blade.
Ideal for users who value straightforward sharpening, traditional carbon-steel character and are prepared to maintain the blade regularly.
Better suited to users who prioritise higher corrosion resistance and lower day-to-day maintenance requirements.
Beech is the most commonly used material for classic Opinel handles. The manufacturer specifies PEFC-certified wood from sustainably managed sources in the Jura and Vercors regions.
The larger handle is suitable for users who prefer a full grip and additional control during practical tasks.
The wood is hard, durable and traditionally used on classic Opinel folding knives.
The varnish helps protect the natural wood against moisture and dirt under normal use.
Virobloc® was created by Marcel Opinel in 1955 and is used on Opinel folding models from N°06 upward. The system consists of a fixed section and a rotating stainless-steel safety ring.
The ring secures the blade in the open position and helps reduce the risk of unintended folding.
The system also allows the blade to be secured in the closed position during transport and storage.
Opinel positions the N°12 Carbon for tougher materials and more substantial practical jobs. The manufacturer also identifies the size as suitable for outdoor work and for serving large cheeses and cured meats.
The larger format is useful for a broad range of outdoor and practical tasks.
The 12 cm blade provides additional working length where a compact knife may not be sufficient.
The larger blade can also serve as a practical knife for cutting and serving larger food products.
Carbon steel is historically linked to classic Opinel knives. The brand identifies this type of steel as the original material used in the early folding knives created by Joseph Opinel. N°12 Carbon continues this tradition in a large practical format.
The classic folding Opinel has been part of French knife-making tradition for more than a century.
Opinel N°12 Carbon is manufactured in France.
Carbon steel remains a preferred option for enthusiasts of the traditional Opinel character.
This is the Opinel N°12 Carbon with a 12 cm XC90 carbon-steel blade.
The Carbon version uses XC90 carbon steel, valued for its cutting performance and easy sharpening, but it requires more care against moisture and corrosion. The Stainless Steel version requires less day-to-day maintenance.
The officially specified blade length is 12 cm.
Yes. Opinel recommends drying the carbon-steel blade carefully after use and oiling it regularly.
Yes. Carbon steel may gradually change colour and develop a patina. This is characteristic of the material.
The officially specified handle length is 16 cm.
Yes. Virobloc® allows the blade to be locked in both the open and closed positions.
Opinel N°12 Carbon is Made in France.
The model can be ordered online from MoskovHunt subject to current availability. If you are choosing between Carbon and Stainless Steel, our team can help you select the version that best matches your intended use and maintenance preference.
Looking for a classic Opinel with a traditional carbon-steel blade? Contact MoskovHunt for information about availability and choosing between the Carbon and Stainless Steel versions.









