Description
Our best-selling balisong by a wide margin. Brass handles with dark wood inserts, copper pins, and a forged Damascus blade with a fine flowing figure that only shows properly in good light.
| Overall length | 9.1 inches |
| Blade length | 4.4 inches |
| Handle length | 4.7 inches |
| Steel | 1095 + 15N20 Damascus, 352 layers |
| Hardness | 58–60 HRC, oil tempered |
| Handle | – Brass with Kamagong Wood Inserts |
Designed around: flipping with weight and momentum. Nine inches open with brass handles gives it authority through a rollover, and the balance sits close to the pivots, which suits smooth continuous flow better than snappy aerial work.
Care: keep the pivots oiled and keep the blade dry, in that order. Brass and copper both tarnish, and on this knife the copper pins go noticeably darker than the brass around them, which most owners find looks better after a year than it did new. If you disagree, a metal polish on a cotton bud fixes it. Do not let polish get onto the etched blade flats, because it lifts the contrast out of the pattern. Wipe the blade with an oiled cloth after a long flipping session; hands sweat more than people think.
Why this one sells
It has been the most ordered knife in this category for years, and the reason is the combination rather than any single feature. Brass gives it the weight serious flippers want. The wood inserts break up what would otherwise be a slippery metal handle. The forged blade means it looks like a collector’s piece while still being priced as something you would actually flip. That balance is unusual.
A note on the handle material
Our records disagree with each other about which dark wood is fitted to this model, so we are not going to name a species and risk telling you something wrong. What we can tell you from the knife in front of us is that the inserts are a dense, tight-grained dark hardwood, set flush into brass channels and pinned with copper. If the exact species matters to you, ask us before you order and we will check the current batch.
Flipping a heavy balisong
Brass handles are dense and this knife carries real mass. The upside is momentum, which makes basic openings and rollovers feel effortless once your wrist adjusts. The downside is that it is unforgiving on the way down. Drops hurt more, handles ding, and long sessions tire you out faster than a lighter knife would. Work through the beginner trick progression before buying weight like this, and how the pivots work will save you a lot of trouble tuning it.
What people ask us
Is the pattern printed? No. It is forge-welded and acid etched, which is why the figure runs off the edge of the grind rather than stopping at it.
Can I tighten the pivots? Yes, and you should expect to. Set them so the handles fall under their own weight without side play.
How does it compare to a plainer one? The ebony-handled BMK-609 gives you a similar feel in the hand for considerably less, without the forged pattern.
Model: BMK-420
Still comparing? Our full range of butterfly knives for sale is one click away.
Samuel G. (verified owner) –
The knife I ordered from this shop is a true testament to the art of blade-making. It’s a beautiful addition to my collection, and I’m extremely satisfied with my purchase.
Laura P. (verified owner) –
I have a growing collection of unique blades, and the one I purchased here is a standout piece. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and it’s now one of my favorites.
Benjamin D. (verified owner) –
I’m really impressed with the quality of the knife I received from this store. It’s clear that a lot of care went into crafting it. I’ll be recommending this place to fellow collectors.
Maria S. (verified owner) –
I stumbled upon this store while looking for a special gift, and I’m so glad I did. The knife I bought is not only visually stunning but also incredibly functional. A fantastic find!
Christopher Oberg (verified owner) –
Highest quality product and family friendly service.
Tanguy A. (verified owner) –
Tyrone Green –
The moment I saw this in person I knew it was a keeper. Comes with a nice pouch which is a nice touch. Weight is perfectly balanced for flipping. Not my first order from Black Mamba Knives and it won’t be my last. Can’t say enough good things about this purchase.
Walter Thompson –
Really solid craftsmanship on this one. This one’s a keeper for sure.
Devin Rogers –
Knew this balisong was special the second I opened the box. This flips cleaner than knives twice the price. Action is smooth right out of the box, no break in needed. Blade came shaving sharp straight out of the box. Already planning my next pickup from this store.
Caleb Rogers –
Everyone who’s seen this balisong has asked where I got it. This flips cleaner than knives twice the price. Latch snaps shut clean every time. Highly recommend this one.
Peter Jones –
So happy I finally pulled the trigger on this one. Action is smooth right out of the box, no break in needed. Black Mamba Knives is quickly becoming my go to shop for knives. This seller clearly takes pride in their work.
Natalie West –
Wasn’t sure what to expect but this balisong nailed it. Blade came shaving sharp straight out of the box. Already planning my next pickup from this company.