Factory balisongs reflect advances in steels, pivot action, designs and more.

The balisong has become a global symbol of precision and cutting-edge design, with Benchmade, Boker Plus, Schrade and Squid Industries among those pushing the boundaries of the knife’s craftsmanship. Incorporating high-quality steel alloys, handle materials and the smoothest in pivot technology have elevated the four companies’ latest balisongs—aka butterfly knives—and those of others as well to new heights of performance and aesthetics.

Boker Plus Papillon

Inked Tanto Krake Raken Specs
Blade Length: 4.5”
Blade Steel: AEB-L stainless
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade @Thickest: .12”
Blade Finish: DLC (Diamond Like Coating)
Handle Material: Aluminum
Weight: 4.33 ozs.
Closed Length: 5.625”
Country of Origin: USA
MSRP: $295

The Boker Plus Papillon is a contemporary take on the classic balisong, blending traditional design with advanced materials and engineering. The skeletonized stainless steel handles, finished with a bead blast, provide a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use. The heart of the knife is the blade of D2, a tool steel renowned for exceptional edge retention and durability. The stonewashed finish enhances the blade’s aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance. The dimpled ricasso, a distinctive feature of the Papillon, adds to its tactical look and feel.

The ball-bearing mechanism ensures smooth and effortless blade deployment, a hallmark of high-quality balisongs. Overall construction is robust, designed to withstand the rigors of everyday carry and occasional tactical use. In short, the Papillon balances portability and functionality.

Schrade Alkemyst

Alkemyst Specs
Blade Length: 4.5”
Blade Material: D2 tool steel
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade @Thickest: .12”
Blade Finish: Bead blast
Handle Material: Stainless steel
Weight: 4.1 ozs.
Closed Length: 5.25”
Country of Origin: USA
MSRP: $164.99

Striking a balance of size and cutting power, the Schrade Alkemyst is a high-performance butterfly knife designed for beginners and experienced flippers. The sleek milled stainless handles reduce weight without sacrificing strength, making the knife easier to handle during extended use. The precision-engineered ball-bearing pivot system allows for smooth, effortless blade deployment. At the same time, the innovative spring-loaded latch on the bite handle provides a user-friendly experience. The Alkemyst is lightweight and portable, featuring a bead-blast finish for added corrosion resistance.

Squid Industries Inked Tanto Krake Raken

Inked Tanto Krake Raken Specs
Blade Length: 4.5”
Blade Steel: AEB-L stainless
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade @Thickest: .12”
Blade Finish: DLC (Diamond Like Coating)
Handle Material: Aluminum
Weight: 4.33 ozs.
Closed Length: 5.625”
Country of Origin: USA
MSRP: $295

The Squid Industries Inked Tanto Krake Raken is an exceptional blend of exact engineering and aesthetic craftsmanship. Upgraded for enhanced performance, it features deeper milling on the handles and substantial gimping for a superior grip. The handles are lightweight, channel-constructed 7075 aluminum, ensuring resilience and comfort. The highly anticipated Inked-DLC-coated tanto blade, crafted from AEB-L stainless steel, offers outstanding cutting performance, while the redesigned bushing/washer system reduces blade play for ultra-smooth flipping action. The knife is perfectly balanced for flipping and cutting tasks, making it a must-have for enthusiasts seeking reliability and style.

Benchmade 99 Necron

99 Necron Specs
Blade Length: 4.59”
Blade Steel: CPM S30V stainless
Rockwell hardness: 58-60 HRC
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade @Thickest: .124”
Blade Finish: Satin
Handle Material: G-10
Weight: 4.21 ozs.
Closed length: 5.08”
Country of Origin: USA
MSRP: $500

The Benchmade 99 Necron is a high-performance butterfly knife designed for expert flippers and enthusiasts alike. The knife pays homage to Benchmade’s roots with the company’s classic trademark “Bali-Song” logo and adds modern features for enhanced performance.

The Necron has latchless G-10 handles and a scimitar-shaped blade, available in two customizable variants. You can fine-tune the knife’s balance and speed with adjustable tungsten weights and extendable handles. The knife boasts either jade or ruby red handles. The safe handle bears a hollow diamond texture, providing a tactile indication for users to avoid accidental blade contact. The Necron has a nylon sheath for secure storage.

Balisong Cuting Tests

I put the balisongs through the cutting board gauntlet that I use with most utility blades. Leather, wire, cardboard, heavy-duty tow strapping, paracord, nylon webbing and light-gauge tin were on the menu. However, it all started with plastic foam packaging peanuts.

Balisongs are used for all sorts of tasks, but with more flare. I started on the foam peanuts and moved on to various fibrous materials. The delicate peanuts told the tale of the tape. While all the blades completed the task, the Necron was on top from the start.

Each bali cut through the materials with a few setbacks. The tin showed a clear winner as the Krake Raken’s penetration scored on a colossal level, though the Alkemyst did very well due to its swedge and thinner stock.

Cardboard was tricky. The Alkemyst never made it through the box cardboard or paper towel roll. The Necron and Papillon sliced quickly, while the Raken was somewhere in between. The trend continued with the tow strapping and nylon webbing.

It was undeniable: the Necron, Papillon, Raken and Alkemyst sliced best, in that order.

Balisong Flipping Tests

Flipping each review bali had me picking a new favorite each time I switched them out, so don’t expect me to choose a favorite. I admit I was rusty as I hadn’t practiced in a while, but it was still fun.

I liked the weight and the way the Papillon flipped from the get-go. The latch helped with peace of mind in transport, as did the nylon carrying case. The skeletonized handle felt secure, made for a positive grip, and helped me confidently stop the action. It was smooth, solid and sharp as heck.

The Schrade Alkemyst was the smallest and lightest of the test flippers. It felt a tad slower due to the weight and handle length. Nonetheless, getting used to what you have is key. The spring-loaded latch on the bite handle is designed for convenience, ensuring a distraction-free flipping experience. The ball-bearing pivot system promoted smooth, effortless blade deployment.

A latch can add weight and create an imbalance in a bali, affecting handling during flips and tricks. In comparison, a latchless design offers enhanced balance and symmetry. The Squid Industries Inked Tanto Krake Raken and Benchmade 99 Necron are two examples of the latter.

It takes a while to manipulate the Inked Tanto Krake Raken as smoothly as possible, but it’s worth the time. I had to get used to not having a latch, as all my balis from the Philippines had them. However, I could tell the difference. Try it out for yourself.

After several years without offering a balisong, the 99 Necron is Benchmade’s first in nearly four years. I had to get accustomed to the feel, which is probably best. The action was smooth despite the lack of bushings—washers only for this one.

Ultimately, use what you like. Most balisong enthusiasts will weigh flipping over cutting. Try as many balis as possible to arrive at your favorite.

Read More On Butterfly Knives:

• BUTTERFLY KNIFE TRICKS: FROM EASY TO THE COMPLEX
• TRAINER BUTTERFLY KNIFE: OPTIONS TO HONE YOUR TRICKS
• HAWAII CONTINUES BALISONG BATTLE IN COURTS