Montpellier cocobolo

When you think friction folder, you probably think Opinel. You might also think, such knives are primitive or inferior. Cognet has definitively put to rest any such notion. There is nothing primitive or inferior about the Montpelier. This rivals any top-shelf Laguiole, Le Thiers or other French slipjoint knife both as to looks and function. Try it; you'll understand what I mean. The Montpelier features full, flat ground carbon blade with an edge that--believe it or not--surpasses both of my Opinel knives for thin edge geometry. It may as well be a laser. The point on the wharncliffe-type blade is perfection. Not only does it cut like the Dickens, it patinas very nicely, has a 90 degree spine (for those bushcrafters), and looks like nothing else you'll have in your collection. The friction mechanics are not what you would expect. This is no flimsy open blade made secure"ish" with a Vibroloc ring. It has a very firm, silky smooth opening and close and holds surprisingly firm when open. The cutlers have setup the tension just right to ensure you can use this all day without fear of the blade closing. It functions as securely and with the same tension as a slipjoint with a fairly hefty backspring. Simple? Admittedly. Primitive? No. Then we have the art deco-style handle scales. That Cocobolo wood has been polished like glass. The geometric shape is surprisingly comfortable in-hand, and even the largest hands will have full coverage and comfort during use. The blade tang is flush with the handle when closed and open. It's just perfectly engineered. Simple perfection; highly functional; great for outdoor use or urban EDC. For me, it's my clasp knife for fire-prep and other camp wood processing tasks. Makes for an ideal whittler. Don't let the absence of a lock dissuade you. This is as sturdy--or more so--than most slipjoints.

Lightweight & simple. This knife is very well made. It's a great addition to a traditional French knife collection.