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.

The butterfly knife originated in the Philippines in the province of Batangas where it is a very common everyday knife known as a balisong. After World War II many American soldiers brought these knives home as souvenirs, introducing them to the Western world.

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.

External links

• Video footage of the techniques for using a butterfly knife (http://www.balisong.net/en/techniques.htm)
• Tips and techniques (http://www.balisonxtreme.com)
• Legality checklist for various states in USA (http://www.thehighroad.org/library/blades/knifelaws.html)

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