A butterfly knife is a specialized folding knife with two counter-rotating handles that may be closed over and conceal the blade. The knife can be opened by flipping it from the closed position to one side, revealing the blade in its original orientation on the other side of the handle.
The name “butterfly knife” comes from how it looks when opened; the blade resembles two opposing wings of a butterfly when fully extended.
Origins
A butterfly knife is a balisong, fan knife, or Batangas knife. “balisong” comes from Tagalog words meaning “to open.” The name “Batangas” knife is due to its origin place in Batangas City, Philippines, where these knives were first found manufactured by Filipino natives during the Spanish colonization period (1521-1898).
The handles rotate around each other so they can be folded into each other, concealing both the blade and any fingers holding onto them. This makes it possible to perform tricks like flipping them around your wrist while keeping them completely hidden from view (or at least mostly), making it an excellent weapon for self-defense or combat sports like kendo.
In addition to the blade itself, other components make up a butterfly knife. The handle is typically metal or plastic and features finger grooves to provide a better grip. A spring mechanism allows you to open and close the blade quickly.
The butterfly knife does not require this, but you can use the other hand to help stabilize the blade as you flip it open. You may also choose not to use your second hand if you prefer having full control over your weapon while flipping it around in front of your face (and eyes).
Trainer Blade.
A trainer blade is a butterfly knife that has a blunt edge. They are used for practicing flipping techniques and are unsuitable for weapon use. This blade type has no sharp edge and, therefore, cannot be used to cut things or damage people or animals. It is designed specifically as a training tool for learning how to flip your knives properly before moving on to live blades with sharp edges. These are usually made from stainless steel, so they won’t rust or corrode easily like other metals might do over time if exposed directly outdoors, where moisture levels vary greatly during different seasons.
Popular Brands
Benchmade Butterfly Knives are some of the most popular in the United States. Benchmade knives are well known for their quality and craftsmanship, which is why they have been around for over 30 years. Benchmade knives are made with high carbon stainless steel that is heat treated to Rc 58-60 hardness, making them extremely durable and able to withstand heavy use without wearing out quickly.
The Benchmade Mini Griptilian 556SBK Knife features a drop point blade with a plain edge for general-purpose use or everyday carry (EDC). The handle is constructed from textured glass-filled nylon scales over an aluminum liner lock frame with a reversible tip-up pocket clip for convenient carrying options on either side of your waistband or backpack strap!
United Cutlery is also a popular brand of butterfly knife that’s been around since 1954. It was founded by Al Mar and his business partner, Bob Lum. The company’s headquarters are in Ontario, California. They specialize in making high-quality knives and swords–including butterfly knives–and have been featured in many films over the years.
Where Is It Illegal?
The United States is one country that does not allow you to own a butterfly knife legally. The United States has no restrictions on owning other types of knives, but they do have restrictions on owning butterfly knives. As a general rule, if you live in the United States, it is illegal to own a butterfly knife unless it was purchased before 1997 or inherited from someone who had passed away before 1997.
California prohibits anyone under 18 from possessing any knife with a blade longer than 2 inches without adult supervision or permission from an adult over 21.
Butterfly knives are illegal to carry in some states: California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Ohio (except when hunting or fishing), Oklahoma (except when hunting or fishing), Pennsylvania (except when hunting or fishing), Rhode Island (except when hunting or fishing), South Carolina (except when hunting or fishing), Tennessee (except when hunting or fishing), Texas (except when hunting or fishing), Virginia (except when hunting or fishing), Washington and Wyoming.
Conclusion
A butterfly knife is a specialized folding knife with two counter-rotating handles that may be closed over and conceal the blade. They are commonly used by florists and other professionals who need quick access to their cutting tools. Butterfly knives are also popular among performers because they allow for an impressive visual display while being relatively safe to use without injury. It is commonly used by stage performers, martial artists, and military personnel. Butterfly knives are not illegal in most places, but some exceptions exist, including California and New York City.
