A butterfly knife, also known as a balisong, is a distinctive type of folding pocketknife celebrated for its unique opening and closing mechanism.
Understanding the Butterfly Knife
Originating from the Philippines, this knife is often recognized by several other names, including the fan knife or Batangas knife. Its design stands apart from conventional folding knives due to its innovative handle system.
Key Features and Mechanism
The defining characteristic of a butterfly knife lies in its two handles. These handles are designed to:
- Counter-rotate: They pivot in opposite directions around the blade's tang (the unsharpened base of the blade that extends into the handle).
- Conceal the Blade: When the knife is closed, the blade neatly folds away and is fully enclosed within specific grooves designed within the handles. This allows for safe and compact storage.
This unique construction enables the knife to be rapidly deployed or concealed with a series of skilled manipulations, often referred to as "flipping."
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Name | Butterfly Knife (Balisong) |
| Other Names | Fan Knife, Batangas Knife |
| Type | Folding Pocketknife |
| Origin | Philippines |
| Mechanism | Two handles counter-rotate around the tang, enclosing the blade when closed. |
This knife's design makes it both a functional tool and, for some, an object for skill-based manipulation.
