The balisong or butterfly knife is a form of folding pocket knife with two handles that counter-rotate around the tang such that, when closed, the blade is concealed within grooves in the handles. In the hands of a trained user, the knife blade can be brought forth quickly using one hand. Manipulations (flipping) are perfomed for art or amusement and require great skill. Translated from Tagalog, the word "Balisong" means "Broken Horn" as the original Balisongs were made from carved animal horns and recycled knife blades.

The history of the butterfly knife is uncertain, with the following three main opinions:

• The knife dates back to around 800 C.E. and is a traditional weapon of the Malaya-Polynesian fighting art of Kali. (Referenced from the Barrio Balisong website)

• The knife was invented around 1900 C.E. in the Philippines and spread by American Soldiers returning from World War II. (Common belief)

• The knife was invented in France and published in the book "Le Perret" in 1710. It then spread throughout Europe and was carried by Spanish sailors to the Philippines. (Supported by patents, published works and expert collectors)

In many U.S. states, it is illegal to possess and/or carry such a knife in public; indeed, doing so is a felony in some states, such as Nevada.

Compare with

• Gravity knife
• Switchblade, also called a flicknife
• Pantographic knife

External links

• Barrio Balisong website
• History of the Balisong Knife - from balisongcollector.com
• Video footage of the techniques for using a butterfly knife
• Tips and techniques
• Legality checklist for various states in USA
• Online database of past and current balisongs