Butterfly knives
A balisong uses a two-part handle that rotates around a blade or blunt training section. The category contains both butterfly knives and trainers intended for learning the mechanism. They may look similar, but differ in edge, weight, length, handle material and pivot behaviour.
Bear & Son products include black and silver models in sizes 4 and 5, as both edged knives and trainers. Bradley Kimura versions use Coyote G10, OD Green G10, Black G10 and CF handle materials. A colour or size name does not replace the distinction between an edged knife and a trainer.
Knife or trainer
First identify the working section unambiguously. Then compare closed length, weight, handle shape and pivot construction. For learning movements, choose a training model accepted by the instructor. Check the rules on possession and carrying independently for the relevant location.
- edged blade or blunt trainer
- open and closed length
- weight and handle material
- pivots, stops and closure
Pivots and safe practice
Keep the pivots clean and inspect them for looseness, adjusting them only as instructed. A cracked handle or loose component makes practice unsafe. Store edged knives and trainers separately and identify them clearly to prevent confusion before a session.