Butterfly Knife Tricks | How To Use A Butterfly Knife?

How To Use A Butterfly Knife?

The butterfly knife, also known as a balisong, is a distinct, traditional folding pocket knife that originated in the Philippines. With its unique design featuring two handles counter-rotating around the tang, it’s not just a knife—it’s a piece of functional art. This guide will take you through the ins and outs of using a butterfly knife responsibly and safely.

A word of caution: before you start practicing with a butterfly knife, it’s important to remember that in some jurisdictions, possession or use of a butterfly knife may be illegal. Always check and abide by your local laws.

What Are Butterfly Knives?

Butterfly knives are generally folding knives that require no spring-assisted mechanism for opening or closing. Characterized by two handles that rotate around the blade, these knives offer both utility and dexterity but are most renowned for their flair when operated. The handles function as a safeguard when closed, enveloping the blade and mitigating accidental injuries. Despite their captivating acrobatics, butterfly knives are often subject to regulations and prohibitions due to their potential misuse, and therefore, their legal status varies widely from place to place. From a utilitarian tool to a performance art prop, the butterfly knife stands out as a unique emblem in the diverse knife universe.

Understanding Your Butterfly Knife

A butterfly knife is an intricate tool with a dual-handle design. It has a ‘bite handle’ and a ‘safe handle’. The bite handle is the one that, when closed, the blade’s sharp edge is facing. This is typically the handle that has the latch on it. The safe handle, on the other hand, is the one that, when closed, the dull edge of the blade is against.

Safety Measures

Safety should always be your top priority when handling a butterfly knife. Before you start practicing flips and tricks, it’s recommended to use a trainer butterfly knife. This knife has a dull blade, which can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Always make sure to use the knife in a safe and controlled environment, away from others who could be accidentally harmed.

Basic Techniques

Now, let’s delve into the basic handling and operation of the balisong knife.

The Basic Open: Hold the safe handle and let the bite handle swing free. Flick your wrist and flip the bite handle up and around. It will rotate 180 degrees and end up in an open position, with the blade pointing away from you.
The Basic Close: The process is quite similar to the basic open. Hold the safe handle, let the bite handle swing free, flick your wrist, and flip the bite handle down and around. The knife should close, with the blade safely tucked between the handles.

Advanced Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic open and close, you can move on to more advanced techniques.

The Twirl: Start with the basic open position. Using your fingers, flip the bite handle around the back of your hand, then flip the safe handle back to the closed position. This move can be tricky to master, so be patient and practice until you get it right.
The Zen Rollover: This move starts with holding the bite handle, allowing the safe handle to swing around the back of your hand, followed by the blade, and finally flipping the bite handle back around to close the knife. This is a continuous, fluid motion and is one of the most visually appealing butterfly knife tricks.

Maintenance

Like any other tool, balisong knives need regular maintenance for optimal performance. Keep the knife clean, especially the pivoting area. Apply a small amount of lubricant to keep the action smooth. Periodically check the tightness of the screws and adjust them as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Learn How To Use A Butterfly Knife?

The time it takes to learn how to use a butterfly knife varies, but proficiency may be achieved with several weeks of dedicated practice. Regular training and adherence to safety guidelines are essential during the learning process.

How To Use RGX Butterfly Knife?

Open the knife by loosening your grip, flipping the handle over the back of your hand, then catch the “bite handle” (the handle with the blade attached) once it comes around.
Use the knife by holding it in a closed position, then swing the “safe handle” (the handle without the blade) around, bringing the blade into an open position.
Close the knife by swinging the “safe handle” around again so the blade folds back into its original position, but be sure to catch the handle and not the blade.

How To Spin A Butterfly Knife?

Holding the safe handle, flick your wrist to swing the bite handle and blade out.
Flip the knife back so the blade swings around and the bite handle lands in your palm.
Now, flip the safe handle back over into your palm, securing the knife in an open position.

Are Butterfly Knives Illegal?

Butterfly knife legality varies worldwide, including 42 states of the United States. The other eight states also allow to use of butterfly knives but there are severe restrictions. The reason behind this is that butterfly knives are closely related to Benchmade knives.

How To Flip A Butterfly Knife?

Holding the safe handle, flick your wrist to swing out the blade.
Flip it around your hand, then flip the bite handle over the blade.
Catch the bite handle, safely enclosing the blade within the two handles.

How To Unlock A Butterfly Knife?

Ensure safety first: Make sure the blade is facing away from you and your fingers are clear of the edge.
Hold the knife’s safe handle (the side without the latch) and gently flick your wrist to swing the bite handle (the side with the latch) and the blade out.
Continue the motion to fully extend the blade, then catch the bite handle to lock the knife into its open position.

How To Get Better With A Butterfly Knife?

Practice daily with a trainer butterfly knife, focusing on mastering basic movements like the opening, closing, and simple twirls before moving to advanced tricks.
Learn safety measures, always keeping your fingers clear of the blade’s path, and being mindful of the knife’s momentum during tricks.
Use online tutorials and guides to study and refine specific maneuvers, and gradually increase complexity as your dexterity and control improve.

How To Sharpen A Butterfly Knife?

Sharpening a butterfly knife requires patience and precision. Start by safely securing the blade using a vise to prevent movement. Then, run a whetstone along the edge of the blade at a 20-degree angle, going from the base to the tip. Repeat this process on both sides until the desired sharpness is achieved. Always ensure your safety by handling the knife carefully, preferably with gloves.

Conclusion

While using a butterfly knife can seem intimidating at first, with practice and perseverance, you can master the skill. Remember to always prioritize safety and legality when learning to use this fascinating tool. Its unique blend of functionality and dexterity-based skill can make a butterfly knife not just a practical tool, but also a form of artistic expression.

The most important thing is to have patience and persistence. Learning to use a butterfly knife is a journey, not a destination. So take it slow, learn step-by-step, and most importantly, enjoy the process!