The Balisong knife is a type of butterfly knife that originated in the Philippines, with the blade hidden within the handle. When opened, it resembles a pair of scissors.
While you are looking for it in Australia, Balisong knives are classified as prohibited weapons, and unfortunately, even the Balisong trainers (knives with blades that cannot cut) carry the same restriction in most of the Australian states.
Now, there is some confusion about whether Balisong trainers are illegal in all of Australia or in just some of its states. The answer seems to be that it depends on the state you live in.
So if you’re planning on carrying one around with you in Australia, it’s best to check the laws of the state you’re in first.
What are Balisong Trainers?
The balisong, also known as a fan knife, butterfly knife, or Batangas knife, is a folding pocket knife from the Philippines.
Its distinct features are two handles counter-rotating around the tang such that, when closed, the blade is concealed within grooves in the handles.
A balisong typically has no locking mechanism. Consequently, both handles can rotate around the tang to open and close.
The only difference between a balisong knife and a balisong trainer is that the trainer doesn’t have a real blade and can’t cut anything accordingly.
If you have gotten permission to have a Balisong trainer, the one I want to recommend is the GREMLIN Balisong Knife Trainer (View on Amazon).
GREMLIN Balisong Knife Trainer
- STOCK IN USA, Delivered in 5-7 Days.
- REINFORCED WITH LOCTITE: It comes pre-thread locked with Loctite 272，Please don't try to take it apart!
- RUNS ON BEARINGS : Ball bearings instead of washers, Started flipping right out of the box and it is smooth like butter, it is suitable for intermediate trainer to do a variety of fancy action.
- LIGHTWEIGHT G10 HANDLE : G10 feel real nice and offer a good grip, at the same time, it has a fairly good weight and is great for flipping.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & GOOD SIZE: Weights 4.6 oz, Overall Length 9.8 inch, blade 4.5inch. These parameters come from the choices of most professional trainers.
Are Balisong Butterfly Knives Illegal in Australia?
Yes. In Australia, Balisong knives are classified as prohibited weapons, which means that manufacturing, selling, possessing, using, or carrying them is illegal without a license or permission from the authority.
However, it is permitted to carry if the knife is being used for legitimate causes. For instance, you can use a balisong for sporting or theatrical purposes. Therefore, if you’re looking to buy a Balisong knife, you better find a licensed dealer.
Thinking of collecting a Butterfly Knife for yourself? Check out the VORNNEX Practice Butterfly Knife Trainer on an affordable budget.
VORNNEX Practice Butterfly Knife Trainer
- UNSHARPENED ITEM: This butterfly trainer is useful for learning how to use the real thing without all the cuts and bruising to the hands. The unsharpened blade of our practice butterfly Trainer will keep you away from danger as a beginner.
- WEIGHT BALANCE: We calculate a perfect weight balance of the butterfly Trainer , 6Oz, a perfect center of mass to make sure you can flip it smoothly.
- DURABLE: Unlike the normal butterfly trainer, we use enhanced 404 stainless steel and enhanced screws to make sure it can last long till you get the hang of it and are able to move on to the real thing.
Why are Considered Balisong Trainers Illegal?
The question is why Balisong knives are illegal. Well, balisongs are harmless, not capable of cutting anything.
However, the reason for banning them might be due to the possibility of converting the fake blade into a live one.
Balisongs are regulated as knives in many jurisdictions, and as such, they are generally illegal to carry in public places or to use threateningly.
However, there are some areas where possession of a balisong is not prohibited by law, and trainers may be freely owned and used.
Are Trainer Butterfly Knives Illegal?
There are many people who are under the impression that trainer butterfly knives are illegal. This is simply not true.
While there are some states that have laws prohibiting the carrying of certain types of knives, such as switchblades, there is no such law regarding trainer butterfly knives.
In fact, these types of knives are perfectly legal to own and carry in most states. The only thing to keep in mind is that they must be used for their intended purpose, which is training.
Is a Squiddy Legal in Australia?
Yes, squaddies are legal in Australia. There are no restrictions on keeping or catching them, and they can be found in many areas around the country.
However, there are records where sometimes Australian customs have seized harmless balisong plastic knives.
The Squiddy that I want to have is the White Plastic Butterfly Trainer (View on Amazon).
Squid Industries Squiddy butterfly Trainer
- MADE IN THE USA: The Squiddy butterfly knife/ balisong trainer is precision CNC machined. It features channel constructed PVC-C handles for a strong and lightweight build. Each trainer is hand assembled and tested in our shop in California to ensure smooth action and minimal handle play.
- TSA Safe: The Squiddy is easy to travel with. You can fly with it in your carry on baggage and flip with it in the airport and even while you're on the airplane.
- SAFE + PUBLIC/ AGE FRIENDLY: The Squiddy butterfly knife/ balisong trainer has an adorable, harmless looking face. It is perfect to flip on the bus, when you're walking to school, or any other public area. The plastic look and feel also makes them great for kids--hefty metal balisongs usually don't work well for children and even regular adults who can easily bruise.
Are Balisong Trainers Considered Weapons?
The balisong trainers are often used by people who want to learn how to use them or by those who simply enjoy collecting and flipping them.
While they may not be considered weapons in the traditional sense as they don’t have a real blade, they can certainly be used as such if need be.
Why are the Butterfly Knife Trainers Illegal?
Conclusion
Balisong trainers are legal in Australia. However, there are some restrictions on their use. Balisong knives are classified as “prohibited weapons” under the Crimes Act 1900 (Cth).
This means that it is illegal to carry or use a Balisong knife in a public place without a legitimate reason. The only exception to this rule is if the person carrying the knife has a license or permit that specifically allows them to do so, like for theatrical or sporting purposes.
Meta: Balisong knives and trainers are illegal in Australia. But they’re still popular among collectors. Read more about these treacherous knives.
The kukri notch is where the leather lanyard was tied to the user’s hand during battle, and it is removed when used for other uses.
Dear Mr. H,
Thank you so much for your comment and for sharing your knowledge about the kukri notch on balisong knives. It’s fascinating to learn about the historical significance of the kukri notch and how it was used during battle. Your insights add a deeper dimension to the discussion of balisong knives and I appreciate your expertise on the subject.
Thank you again for your contribution to the conversation. I look forward to more of your comments in the future.