The butterfly knife — better known to most of the world as an Alison — is one of the coolest, most misunderstood tools you can own. It flips like magic, looks intimidating, and has a fan base that ranges from everyday carry enthusiasts to competitive flippers. But before you click “buy,” you need to know the real story in 2025: what it actually is, where it’s legal, and how to use one without losing a finger.
What Is a Butterfly Knife? (Bali Song Basics Explained)
A butterfly knife is a folding pocket knife with two handles that rotate around the blade. When closed, the blade hides completely between the handles. Pull the “safe handle,” swing the “bite handle” around, and the blade flips open in one smooth motion — that’s why people love flipping them.
The name “balisong” comes from the Philippines, where it was born centuries ago. “Balisong” literally means “broken horn” because early handles were made from carved carabao horn. Today, you’ll hear the terms butterfly knife and balisong used interchangeably.
Want to see one in action? Here’s a clean, slow-motion breakdown that’s perfect for beginners: Butterfly Knife Basics – How a Bali song Works (YouTube)
Are Butterfly Knives Legal in 2025? (U.S. State-by-State Reality Check)
This is the question everyone asks first — and for good reason.
- Fully legal to own and carry (open or concealed in most cases): Texas, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, Alaska, etc.
- Legal to own, but carry restrictions exist: Colorado, Utah, Ohio, Pennsylvania
- Ownership legal but automatic opening banned (manual flipping is fine): Illinois, New Mexico
- Completely banned or heavily restricted: California, Hawaii, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C.
Federal law does NOT classify a true manual balisong as a switchblade, so TSA still allows butterfly knife trainers (dull blade) in checked luggage, but never in carry-on.
For the full legal history and details, check the Wikipedia page on the Butterfly knife.
Best Butterfly Knives in 2025 (Live Blade Picks)
Here are the ones people actually love right now (prices as of late 2025):
- Squid Industries Squiddy-B – Best trainer under $60
- Bear & Son 114B – Best budget live blade (~$65)
- BRS Replicant – Best mid-range (~$350–$400)
- Hom Basilisk-R – Best high-end production (~$500+)
- Microtech Tachyon III – Limited edition collectors’ dream
Start with a trainer. Trust me.
Best Butterfly Knife Trainers for Safe Practice
If you’re just learning, get a trainer first. They look and weigh almost exactly like the real thing, but the “blade” is dull metal or plastic.
Top trainers right now:
- Squid Industries Squiddy (plastic, super cheap)
- NB Knives Nautilus (metal, perfect weight)
- Glidr Arctic 2 (aluminium handles, buttery smooth)
How to Flip a Butterfly Knife Safely (Beginner Tutorial)
Start with these two basic openings:
- Basic Index Rollover – Hold the safe handle, roll the bite handle over your index finger
- Thumb Rollover – Same idea, but using your thumb instead
Safety rules that will save your fingers:
- Always flip away from your body
- Keep fingers clear of the bite handle path
- Practice over a bed or soft surface at first
- Never flip a live blade until you’re 100% confident with a trainer
Here’s one of the clearest beginner tutorials out there (under 10 minutes): How to Flip a Butterfly Knife – Beginner Guide 2025 (YouTube)
Butterfly Knife Maintenance & Sharpening Tips
Good balisongs last forever if you take care of them:
- Loctite the pivot screws after a week of flipping
- Clean with isopropyl alcohol every month
- One drop of knife oil on each pivot — no more
- Use blue Loctite (removable), never red
History of the Balisong – From Filipino Fighting Tool to Global Art
The balisong started as a utility and self-defence tool in the Philippines around the early 1900s (some say even earlier). American soldiers brought them home after WWII, and by the 1980s, they exploded in pop culture — think movies, martial arts, and arcade games. Today, flipping is an art form with world championships.
Common Butterfly Knife Myths Busted
- Myth: “They’re illegal everywhere” → Only in a handful of states
- Myth: “Only criminals carry them” → Most owners are hobbyists and collectors
- Myth: “Cheap $20 Amazon ones are fine” → They’ll rattle apart in a week
- Myth: “Butterfly knives are switchblades” → No spring, no switchblade classification
Butterfly Knife FAQs (2025 Edition)
Q: Can I fly with a butterfly knife trainer? A: Dull trainers are allowed in checked bags only.
Q: What’s the difference between channel and sandwich construction? A: Channel handles are lighter and stronger; sandwiches are cheaper to make.
Q: Are CS2/CS: GO butterfly knives real? A: Some high-end replicas exist, but most in-game skins are just cosmetic.
Q: At what age should someone start flipping? A: 13–14 with a trainer and adult supervision is common.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy a Butterfly Knife in 2025?
If you live in a legal state and you’re willing to start with a trainer and learn safely, absolutely yes. The flipping community is welcoming, the skill is incredibly rewarding, and a quality balisong can last a lifetime.
Just check your local butterfly knife laws first, buy a good trainer, and respect the blade.
