Butterfly Knife - Unique Folding Knives And Combat Knives

Butterfly Knife – Unique Folding Knives And Combat Knives

The butterfly knife is a unique folding knife that, when used correctly, can be an effective self-defense weapon. Learn more about online butterfly knives and butterfly knife tricks.

Find, Compare, and Buy Outdoor Knives - Outdoor Knife Links

Also called a Balisong, a butterfly knife is designed with a blade and a handle that is separated into two parts, attached to the blade's tang by hinges. When the butterfly knife is closed, the handles fold over the blade, which can be locked into place with a small latch at the base of one of the handles. Similarly, the handles can be locked with the latch when the blade is opened. This makes the knife almost as strong as a fixed blade.

Because of the combination of blade strength, compactness, and the speed with which it can be opened using one hand, the butterfly knife is an excellent choice as an outdoor knife or a tactical knife.

A good butterfly knife technique is difficult to master, but when mastered can help the user manipulate the knife more quickly and effectively. When first learning a butterfly knife trick, it is recommended that the student cover the blade with electrical tape to prevent accidental cuts when learning how to use a butterfly knife. There are also martial arts schools, videos, and websites, such as BalisongXTreme, that offer tutorials for butterfly knife tricks.

There are many companies that make butterfly knives, ranging from very inexpensive to expensive collector's models. One of the most popular is the Benchmade Butterfly Knife, which has many exceptional models available. These are fairly high-end knifes, but for the collector or expert, the cost is worth it.

Although the origin of the butterfly knife is disputed, it is usually agreed that its design and techniques were perfected in the Philippines. It is employed as a combat knife in Filipino Martial Arts.

The Filipino butterfly knife came to the United States after World War II, when troops stationed in the Philippines brought them home as souvenirs. Since then, it has enjoyed a steady popularity, in particular among martial arts enthusiasts.

Because it can be a lethal weapon, many states ban the possession of butterfly knives, likening it to switchblade or gravity knives. However, some states do not have a ban on butterfly knives because of the skill needed to use them properly. State laws can have severe punishments, including jail time and fines, so learn the law before purchasing a butterfly knife.

Copyright 2004-2010 S&T US LLC