About Butterfly Knives

Butterfly knives are a favorite among enthusiasts, loved for their sleek design and incredible versatility. These knives are named "butterfly knives" due to the way their handles resemble butterfly wings when opened and closed.

These knives aren’t just cool to look at—they’re practical too, perfect for everyday tasks and even self-defense. Their flipping mechanism has also turned them into an art form, with enthusiasts performing intricate tricks that highlight both the knife’s elegance and functionality.

Explore our sporting knives collection to find a butterfly knife that fits your needs.

What is a butterfly knife?

A butterfly knife is a folding knife with two handles that rotate around the blade’s tang. Unlike a traditional kitchen knife or dagger, its unique design allows for smooth flipping, making it a popular choice for both utility and performance tricks. High-quality butterfly knives are made with durable materials like titanium or stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance. Originating from the Philippines, butterfly knives are known for their versatility, durability, and stylish appeal.

So, is it a butterfly knife or a balisong? 

Actually, both terms refer to the same type of knife. Balisong knives originated from the Philippines, and the term "balisong" is thought to be derived from the Tagalog words "baling sungay," meaning "broken horn." Early balisong handles were made from carved animal horns.

When the balisong surged in popularity decades ago, customers also started referring to it as the "butterfly knife" due to the resemblance to butterfly wings when flipped open and closed.

Many customers favor the butterfly knife—not just for its unique design, but also for its practicality. You can quickly deploy the knife with one hand, making it a handy tool for everyday utility tasks and even self-defense. And if you want to crank your “cool” factor up a notch, consider mastering the art of balisong flipping. Your friends will love the tricks!

However, because butterfly pocket knives are generally lightweight and great for everyday tasks that require light cutting, for heavier cutting needs, you may want to get a sturdier, more robust knife.

Understanding how a balisong knife works

The key feature that distinguishes balisong butterfly knives from traditional pocket knives is their flipping mechanism. While most pocket knives have a single handle, modern balisongs have two handles that pivot independently around the blade. This design allows the knife to rotate fully around the tang (the unexposed, unsharpened part of the blade extending into the handle).

The latch is a locking mechanism that secures the handles together when the balisong is open or closed. This prevents accidental deployment or closure, especially when carrying the knife in your pocket or practicing your flipping skills.

So, what makes the butterfly pocketknife so appealing to knife enthusiasts? Simply put, its ability to be opened and closed quickly with just one hand using various twirling and flipping techniques. Skilled users can deploy the clip-point blade much faster than your average folding knife.

Always ensure your butterfly knife is in top condition—visit our knife sharpening service for professional maintenance.

What is special about a butterfly knife?

A butterfly knife, also called a balisong, is special because of its unique two-handle design that allows smooth flipping and one-handed opening. While some brands use titanium for handles, many enthusiasts prefer materials like stainless steel or carbon fiber for their durability and ease of maintenance. Its compact size makes it easy to carry while being versatile for everyday tasks or as a tool for martial arts.

High-quality models like the Benchmade Balisong Butterfly Knife are crafted with precision, featuring durable Damasteel blades and handles for superior balance. These knives are not only practical but also admired for their craftsmanship and unique flipping mechanism.

Butterfly knife blades and materials

At Northwest Knives, we offer a diverse selection of quality balisongs. Our stainless steel blade balisong knives are a favorite among customers, but we also have plenty of other blade and handle materials for the discerning knife collector. The following are available for purchase in our shop:

• The Boker Tactical Balisong is a lightweight and easy-to-use butterfly knife, perfect for everyday carry and quick utility tasks.

• The Krake Raken V2.5 features durable aluminum handles, making it highly resistant to wear and drops, ideal for daily use and longevity.

• The Kershaw Lucha Balisong is a sleek and smooth butterfly knife with a rust-resistant CPM 20CV spear-point blade and a tough carbon fiber handle, making it a great choice for flipping or daily tasks.

• The Benchmade Necron is a Gold Class butterfly knife designed for collectors and enthusiasts. It has a premium scimitar-style blade, tungsten-weighted handles for balance, and vibrant FatCarbon colors that make it stand out.

If you’re unsure about the best butterfly knife option or style for you, feel free to contact our knife experts. They’ll be happy to answer any questions about balisongs that you may have.

Are butterfly knives illegal?

The legality of butterfly knives (also called balisongs) depends on where you live. In some areas, knives like butterfly knives, daggers, or even utility knives are subject to strict laws. While Swiss Army knives are often permitted due to their multi-tool nature, folding knives with advanced mechanisms like butterfly knives or cold steel models may have additional restrictions. Unfortunately, this has also made butterfly knives a weapon of choice among criminals.

Before purchasing a balisong knife, make sure it's allowed in your jurisdiction. In some parts of the U.S., it is illegal to possess or carry a butterfly knife in public.

If you want to practice your butterfly knife flipping skills but can’t legally procure a balisong knife, our balisong trainers are the perfect tool for you. These trainers replicate the weight and feel of a real butterfly knife—without the sharp edge.

Although balisong trainers are not switchblades, have no sharp edge, and are essentially recreational tools for performing tricks, it’s always best to double-check with local authorities to ensure that you can legally purchase one.

Is a balisong knife from Northwest Knives worth it?

Absolutely! Our butterfly knives are practical, versatile, precise, and durable, making them suitable for various everyday tasks. Plus, balisongs are designed for concealed carrying, so you can keep your knife close at hand without drawing unwanted attention.

There’s a balisong knife for everyone, whether made from steel or other materials. Our shop offers some of the best balisong knives online—high-quality, durable, and available in a variety of styles, all at prices that suit any budget.

For more advice, visit our knife store near you or contact our team with any questions about balisongs.

Got questions?

Fill out our contact form, and we'll get back to you within 24-48 hours. You can also reach us at 208-884-8626. If you're in the Meridian, Idaho area, visit our knife store near you for expert knife sharpening services. Check out our Blade Sharpening page for rates and FAQs!