Balisong is a folder-type pocket knife with two handles that counterbalance each other, either on the end of each of the same blade or one on either end of two different blades. The handles can rotate around the tang so you can close it like a pocket knife, but when spread out they give extra leverage to flip open. It typically has two pivot points, one near each handle where the knife is opened and closed. There are usually two pins, one or both of which are threaded, through which the handles’ tangs are strung.
The butterfly or balisong knives has been commonly part of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) culture since the early 1900s. Balisong knives are traditionally used to teach knife-fu, or knife handling techniques, as well as for self defense. The original butterfly knife was created by Tjiwan Darmadi, a native of the island of San Pedro off the coast of Manila. Although traditional balisongs are produced using filigree craftsmanship, modern production is more mass-made using injection molding techniques. This makes knives more affordable and thus accessible to a larger audience.
Balisong knives are popular among collectors because of the aesthetic value they offer. They come in different varieties, many with an etched handle (called an almond balisong) or beveled bolster (known as a batangas balisong), or solid silver handles.The most common blades used in butterfly knives are those made from stainless steel, carbon steel and titanium. Carbon steel is considered as one of the best types as these blades only need minimal maintenance and will hold a good edge for a month or more even with regular usage. A combination of these features makes butterfly knives harder to copy than other types of folding knives. To some they are simply artistic objects, while others refer to them as “toys”.
The Background of Balisong
The balisong, also known as a butterfly knife or a fan knife, is a folding pocket knife with two handles connected by a chain. It has two internal spring-loaded blades that are released from the folding handle from an opening near the hinge when it is thrown in the air. The user catches the blade between his thumb and index finger at this point and manipulates it in various ways to perform tricks such as cuts, slices and twirls.
The balisong was first introduced in the Philippines during the mid-17th century. The name was derived from Tagalog “balisong”, which means “whirling, rolling or spinning”. It is believed that the knife was first used by street performers in their entertainment shows. However, these knives were also used in agricultural, hunting and combat activities. It’s appearance is unique, the concept behind it lies in the country’s history. The Philippines were colonized by Spain and introduced to many European customs, including military techniques for use with swords and knives. It is said that Filipino smugglers learned of this technique from Spanish soldiers, but that they modified it for their own smuggling needs. That modification was the birth of the balisong knife.
Using Balisong Requires Some Safety Measures
Balisong knives are banned in several countries due to their popularity with criminals, gang members and other extremists. Some safety measures are mandated by law for users due to the nature of the knife including the fact that it must be kept in a sheath and should never be used to cut anything other than itself. They are also classed as dangerous weapons by the US federal government, though this does not apply to balisong knives purchased before 1993. Butterfly knives come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and materials. Some of these include butterfly knives with blades made from stainless steel, titanium or carbon steel etc.
What Makes Balisong Popular?
In the world of knives, few are as iconic as the balisong. For nearly a century, the balisong has been a cutting tool. This is not just any knife; it has unique cutting and flipping mechanisms that allow for increased maneuverability as well as increased chance of cutting yourself. People everywhere have gone down this particular path in search for the perfect cutting tool. That is to say, there are now several types of Balisong knives, and people worldwide enjoy them for their unique features and functionality.
