Balisong
While the meaning of the term "balisong" is not entirely clear, a popular belief is that it is derived from the Tagalog Language words baling sungay (literally, "broken horn")[1][2] as the original balisongs were made from carved animal horns. These knives are also referred to as "fan knives" or "click clacks." (See: Batangas Products)
The use of the balisong is so popular in the Philippines that an urban legend exists about every Batangueño carrying it everywhere he goes[3]. They are... View MoreBalisong
While the meaning of the term "balisong" is not entirely clear, a popular belief is that it is derived from the Tagalog Language words baling sungay (literally, "broken horn")[1][2] as the original balisongs were made from carved animal horns. These knives are also referred to as "fan knives" or "click clacks." (See: Batangas Products)
The use of the balisong is so popular in the Philippines that an urban legend exists about every Batangueño carrying it everywhere he goes[3]. They are a pocket utility knife used by people of Filipino society. They have also been used to fight duels over matters of honor, although such practices have been discontinued for decades.
History
with carbon steel blade and brass (channel) handlesThe butterfly knife appears first documented in a 1710 French book, "Le Perret", where an intricate and precise depiction of a butterfly knife is outlaid, explaining that the device was developed in the late 1500's as a utility knife.[4] It then most likely came into popular use in the Philippines through transference intercontinentally to Spain, which coincides with the Spanish governance of the Philippines during that period.
There is, however, conjecture attending to the balisong being an ancient Filipino invention dating back to 800 AD, stating it to be the most ancient of weapons of the Filipino fighting system of Eskrima[2].
During WWII ( 1945 ), U.S.Troops island hopping in the Pacific, returned home with balisong knives. These knives came in the typical pocket size lengths, and also lengths approaching 30+ inches. Vintage balisong knives have hand ground non-symmetrical carbon steel blades. The sharp edges formed right to the handle, leaving a small tang area, and are not usually marked by the maker with a modern western tang stamp. Collectors viewing antique carbon steel blade knives debate the exact details defining a traditional heirloom knives of the 1930's, with post war knives made with shell brass. Longer ceremonial vintage knives periodically display hand carved designs that are filled with colored and clear japan lacquer. Perhaps the inspiration for modern clear plastic designs.
In 2005 , a standard folding knife was made with a handle that was shaped like a closed balisong. The appearance was cosmetic. The double handle butterfly folding mechanism was not used.
BALISONG, BATANGAS, BUTTERFLY KNIFES
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