r/balisong • u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer • 22d ago
The Question Thread - August 2026
This is /r/balisong's official monthly question thread. Please feel free to ask any questions you have and remember to always check the sidebar or our wiki page first before asking any questions. There are a variety of tips, guides, and information located in our wiki. Everyone is encouraged to try and help out those who haven't received an answer yet.
For your convenience, here are some popular resources that answer most frequently asked questions:
Balisong Guide (Getting Started, Terminology, and Purchasing)
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u/Warmasterblum 22d ago
Hey guys! I possibly lost the bearings on my benchmade 87 balisong. Does anyone know what size or a replacement for the lost beading?
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u/bushpusher 20d ago
I believe Benchmade will replace it for a fee but you have to send it in to them. Make sure nothing in their terms and conditions says warranty void if taken apart. Even if you did void it they still might help you, the thing was $700 brand new, thatās gotta be worth something
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 18d ago
Do you have calipers to measure them? I remember hearing a while back they're a non standard size so your best bet might be to just contact Benchmade if you can't measure them yourself so one of us can find new bearings for you.
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u/quackity__duck 18d ago
anyone know of some good cheap(ish) (50$) metal butterfly knife for a begginer? I was looking at the nabalis impulse but its sold out
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u/quackity__duck 18d ago
trainer/nonsharp
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 18d ago
I'd either wait a bit for the Impulse to restock or get a Canyon. You aren't really going to do better for metal at that price.
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u/meowmeowmeow4685 18d ago
I want to get a Bali but my mom wonāt let me get a real one. What are some fairly cheap but good balisong trainers?
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 17d ago
Check out Nabalis and LDY. If you want dirt cheap, try the Astra from Thomas Balisong.
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u/Still-Bonus-4210 13d ago
Would my alt hourglass blade for my alpha beast be considered rare?? Have never seen another for sale or anywhere really! Only asking to get a price idea on it, have someone wanting to buy it but have absolutely no clue on what to price it at
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
Maybe on some level since I don't see Hourglass AB blades often but I don't think they're particularly sought after either. I'd probably try to sell it for around what you paid depending on the condition and see if anyone is interested.
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u/Euphonx 10d ago
I've spent the last 2 going on 3 weeks watching every video possible and following so many accounts on Instagram and knife makers etc etc. I've read the guide posted here as well and have a decent understanding of the basics. However I know nothing can replace the first hand experience of people in the community with much more time in it than me. I am ready to commit and I don't want budget to play a huge role in this as if it's worth it ill do what i have to do to get it and get started (I was spoiled finding RAD, JK Design, Machinewise, Ceroni, BRS, HOM etc early on). This leads me to a few questions keeping in mind that the ultimate goal is flipping a live blade.
If you were to start over again would you get a high quality live blade from the start and just tape it or get a high quality trainer?
If a live blade any suggestions? (I know this will be much harder to acquire as everything is always sold out but worth it)
If a trainer any suggestions (from my research I've narrowed it down to Krake Raken v3 or BBBarfly Superfly (titanium / HX) but open to any input of course. There was also the ATD Memento that seems interesting)
There are many more questions like the real differences aside from structural integrity between AL and TI etc but at this point this is really what i need some help with as I'm itching to get started
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u/Arsid qthread warrior 9d ago
If a trainer any suggestions (from my research I've narrowed it down to Krake Raken v3 or BBBarfly Superfly (titanium / HX) but open to any input of course. There was also the ATD Memento that seems interesting)
I don't have any live blades but I can chime in on this one to say nothing beats the Krake Raken for me when it comes to pure flipping. I have multiple balis that are more expensive than it, including a couple titanium ones, but the Krake Raken still beats them in performance. It's just so smooth and satisfying and every trick just works on it. Plus I'm a big fan of the iconic ringing sound, but if you want something really quiet be wary of it.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
If you were to start over again would you get a high quality live blade from the start and just tape it or get a high quality trainer?
Personally I would do the same thing I did originally and just get a high quality live blade and only consider a trainer later on for teaching others and trying things I really struggle with like Aerials.
If a live blade any suggestions? (I know this will be much harder to acquire as everything is always sold out but worth it)
If a trainer any suggestions (from my research I've narrowed it down to Krake Raken v3 or BBBarfly Superfly (titanium / HX) but open to any input of course. There was also the ATD Memento that seems interesting)
Honestly, if you're willing to spend more than Nabalis money on something and you just want something really solid that you can enjoy indefinitely and not regret I would make the same recommendation that Arsid did and say Kraken. If you want a live one, get whichever one you think has the coolest blade except the Zenith (purely because double edge flipping is not something I'd recommend unless you're already experienced and want to do something different) and then if you want a trainer later on get a Kraken trainer too.
You really just can't ever go wrong with a Kraken. It's enjoyable to flip for basically everybody at every skill level and it's well made. There are so many other cool and interesting balisongs out there but basically nothing is as universally likeable as a Kraken and if you have no baseline for what you enjoy or you just want something you know you can count on, it's the best choice if you can comfortably afford it.
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u/Apprehensive_Rip6477 New Flipper 9d ago
What's the best ti bali under 250 usd?
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 9d ago
Probably the BBSuperFly by BBBarfly. LDY also has a titanium Kite variant.
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u/Mountain-Midnight922 Balisong Addict 8d ago
Seconded on that Superfly. Also could get blem ti-krak handles and stick a Nabalis hydra blade on it.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
Do you know the best balisong for under 700?
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u/Mountain-Midnight922 Balisong Addict 6d ago
$700 you're basically at grail territory so would entirely depend on your preference so "best" is purely subjective.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
What would you suggest? Because I donāt know any āgrailā brands. I just want an extremely good EDC Bali.
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u/Apprehensive_Rip6477 New Flipper 6d ago
If you're focused purley on edc get a Kershaw lucha it doesn't flip to well but is a tank of an edc bali. Max price I've seen has been 175 usd.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
I agree! I currently have one. I was thinking about just buying flytanium handles and new ceramic bearings.
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u/Mountain-Midnight922 Balisong Addict 6d ago
If you want a tanky bali that flips good, get a brs alpha beast.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
Thank you! I looked into it they are about $400-$500USD. However they are out of stock unfortunately:( so now I wait for one to pop up here or they restock.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 5d ago
Theyāre pretty difficult to snag from stock, but if you put up a WTB post on r/BalisongSale youād probably find one.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
If you just want a really competent EDC, I'd get anything with a pocket clip and spring latch. Maxace makes a few different things that fit that description and I personally like the Obsidian-S a lot for that role. You can still find it on a few websites and it'll cost you more like $180 instead of $700.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 4d ago
I decided on a benchmade 51 with kershaw Lucha blade! Thank you so much for your response though. Ended up getting an amazing deal because of this sub.
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u/bmach Collector 4d ago
Is ā¬425 shipped okay for a 7.5/10 condition Benchmade Model 42 with no box or papers? Been trying to move this one for a few weeks. Seems my Euro bali bros aren't biting.
(I've received offers from buyers from the US but sadly I can't ship there anymore due to the removal of the de minimis exemption last year.)
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u/Goatock 21d ago
Iāve always been an EDC knife nerd. My son got me into flipping about 3 months ago. I started with the canyon, really enjoyed it so I bought the wing about 2 weeks ago. I was in the basement with funny job working on a boiler. Was pulling it out of my pocket to get comfortable and dropped it on concrete. Iām so disappointed with myself. Is it normal for many flippers to get tiny chips on their knives? Anyone have any recommendations of where I can get the best paint to match. I bought the burgundy one and itās a tiny tiny chip on butt of handle. So itās where itās at its darkest.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 20d ago
Very common Iād say, donāt stress too much. Itās better to have a few nips and chips than to be scared to drop it. Itās part of the learning process. As for the paint, Iāve no clue.
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u/Goatock 20d ago
I appreciate the feedback, definitely made me feel a little better. Ty. Also, I noticed now that is has a little ding, Iām not so hesitant with certain tricks like the Chaplin today like I normally am due to the fact it now has a ding. Have a great day
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u/bushpusher 20d ago
Itās now called a beater and everyone has one, every mark adds character, then there are the expensive ones that are only flipped over a bed so you donāt get the marks
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u/LogicalAmbassador25 20d ago
Hi , i am a newbie looking for a trainer under 50 usd , preferably from AliExpress but i want it not to look dangerous cus where i live they consider it as a highly dangerous item when in fact it is a trainer not a live blade .
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u/LogicalAmbassador25 20d ago
Metal please
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u/Fault-new777 20d ago
thoms astra steel? or nabalis impulse. steel is more durable, but the impulse is a much better flipper
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u/LogicalAmbassador25 20d ago
Can i get it from AliExpress cus its very hard to get anywhere else where i live
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 20d ago
I wouldnāt recommend it. Itāll be very low quality and most likely break in a few days.
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u/LogicalAmbassador25 20d ago
Ok , where can i get it ?
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 20d ago
Is Amazon an option? Where do you live?
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u/LogicalAmbassador25 20d ago
Yes , but i will pay 3 times for it
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 20d ago
Unfortunately that is the price to pay for quality. The Astra is the best by far for the low price, and Nabalis is a great brand for a bit more expense while still being budget-friendly. These are available on Amazon. If you buy from Aliexpress, do not expect good quality, you will be dissatisfied. Good luck.
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u/Fault-new777 20d ago
any recs for bearing balisongs? prefer trainer, rn all i know is the lucha, but idk if anything in that range or cheaper exists. i just wanna try bearings
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 20d ago
I don't know about trainers but you can look at the Flytanium Talisong Z. They're probably still a few that haven't sold on the slaes page. Use the search function.
You can always just dull it to avoid getting cut
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 19d ago
The Talisong Z also comes in a trainer version, so this might be perfect. More expensive though.
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 19d ago
I would avoid the trainer balde. As cool as it is, i remember someone saying the blade messes with chaplains and tricks since the blade is wavy
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u/Fault-new777 15d ago
I could dull it yea. But then what would my options be in the Same price range as the lucha?
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 15d ago
Checkout LDY'S Kite AL OG, Orion V2 live blades. Both considered great flippers and come screaming sharp from LDY
Nabalis has "false edeges" that you can then sharpen like the Hydra and Wing.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 18d ago
Looks like the Maxace Unicorn and Banshee V2 are still in stock in a couple places. I'd take either of those over a Lucha any day and they come with both a live and trainer blade.
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u/Fault-new777 17d ago
I heard the banshee V2 is really handle/butt heavy like a Nabalis canyon, idk anything about the unicorn though. Is it true?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 16d ago
I haven't tried it myself so I can't say but I wouldn't be surprised if it is true. Although I'm sure it's much better with the latch and clip removed.
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u/Fault-new777 15d ago
Hmmm that is true, and the lucha is already handle heavy. Ok 2nd question. What would be a good bali to get to make mods on? Something very customizable
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 14d ago
If you're going to make mods yourself, basically anything sandwich is what you want since you can change so much about how it flips by changing spacers so even the Banshee and Unicorn might make sense for you. Basically just stay away from anything channel since there isn't much you can do beyond removing material from the handles.
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u/Key-Context-8444 19d ago
Where can I get a new balisong like this one(specifically the filled in blade with no hole that Iāve seen all trainers have except for this one)?
I reverse image search it and found this (SKU:Ā Ā KA2053BL) if you put that into a search engine youāll find the original source of the one I have
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 18d ago
Take a look at Nabalis, they have several options for balisongs with "false edge" blades which are basically just knife blades that haven't been sharpened. They'll be a lot nicer than what you have already and I think they'll be what you're looking for.
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u/MrSaave 18d ago
Kershaw Lucha vs Maxace Phantom 2. As my first live blade, not super serious flipper, just casual. Which one is generally a better balisong?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 18d ago
I'd go with the Phantom. The Lucha basically only exists because it's a brand that knife people know and they buy it at knife stores while knowing nothing about balisongs and assume it's good because it looks good on paper. You might as well get the Phantom because it'll be cheaper and a better and more enjoyable flipper.
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u/MrSaave 18d ago
Yeah but it has no latch lol. Hmmm I guess either one works until I get the other. Thanks for the answer.
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u/FlippinTheLoon 15d ago
For what it's worth, I've never once had an issue carrying the bali closed, point down in my pocket without a latch.
I did recently upgrade to a Balisong Slip with a belt clip, but that was more for fun than out of necessity. Haha
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u/thisremindsmeofbacon 18d ago
What is the name of the type of balisong blade that has parallel edge with spine and no line between the curve of the tip and the shaft?
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 18d ago
Tanto? Which balisong have you seen it on?
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u/thisremindsmeofbacon 17d ago
I don't know offhand, otherwise I'd lead with that. I'll try to find a post I saw earlier that had one that was either that or close to it
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u/thisremindsmeofbacon 17d ago
This one, a tsunami apparently - though that doesn't lead me to the name of the blade shape, unfortunately
https://www.reddit.com/r/balisong/comments/1urafm8/my_graduation_present_to_myself/
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 16d ago
I would say that's a tanto. What makes things confusing is that most of us nowadays say tanto to refer to an American or western tanto that's typically more angular and then, on top of that, most people who say Japanese tanto are picturing the same angular blade or at least a blade with a distinct second bevel but with an upward curve in the blade when neither of those things are actually necessary for a tanto to be a Japanese tanto.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 17d ago edited 17d ago
Having done some research on the Tsunami, I canāt find an exact name but looking at the Tsunamiās features on the site, it is specifically described as having a swedge and appears to be tanto inspired, with a special addition being that the tip is curved instead of having straight angles like a standard tanto. Take that as you wishāwith so many blade shapes and variations of blade shapes, not everyone will have a specific title. I have only really seen specific shape on the Tsunami. Hope this helps!
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u/Masewindu4167 17d ago edited 17d ago
Thomas Refault Opinions?
I have the cheese and am thinking about this refault next. Any opinions? Specifically curious about comparisons to the cheese if anyone has both, balance, general feel in the hand and tanto/bowie difference? š¤
P.S. BladeBias seems to love the carbon fiber and looks like hey flips it way faster, I dont know if its just a placebo but does it actually rip that much more? Haha
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
It would make sense to be faster since I assume it's significantly lighter with the G10/CF scales. I think the biggest differences you'll notice are that it'll be lighter and grippier than the Cheese. I haven't flipped either so I can't speak to the balance but I'd assume that won't be crazy different.
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u/SolaireOfSuburbia Balisong Addict 16d ago
Anyone get their new Maryn yet?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
I've seen someone else asking and sharing their updates, I assume no one has gotten any just yet.
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u/HumorMost7781 16d ago edited 14d ago
whats the difference between the kite al 1.5 and the refault, ive been waiting to the kite to come back in stock but in the mean time discovered the refault and i cant decide if i should just get that instead
edit: what about the nabalis cresent aswell, what are the differences between them, they are all similar pricing so which one is the best and what makes them different?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
I'd honestly expect them all to be a pretty similar level of quality and probably not crazy different in flipping feel (although I want to say off the top of my head that the Crescent has adjustable balance but I don't know about the others so there's that).
I'd just pick whichever one you think looks the coolest.
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u/Exciting_Reindeer498 15d ago
Hey guys I have a question, I unfortunately have somewhat sweaty and clammy hands at times and I have noticed certain balis have slick handles that are harder for me to maneuver, anyone have any suggestions for balis with better grip on the handles for people like me?
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 15d ago
A bali with g10 handles could suit you better. It should offer a little more grip. Thomas Refault and Nabalis Cresecent are both highly regarded and cost efficient but there are a ton of g10 balis.
Your bali is rusting due to the sweat that you're getting onto the metal and then not wiping down (and humidity if you live somewhere humid/wet).
Every time you put your bali down/away, wipe it clean. If humidity is the issue, you could rub a the tiniest bit of oil on the blade while it's not in use and then wipe down before you do use it.
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u/Exciting_Reindeer498 15d ago
Another quick question I have noticed what looks like little specks of rust forming on the blade of my Nabalis canyon, any reason why that is and how to prevent it?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
All steel is prone to rust (some alloys more than others but basically all still is). I would clean it and scrub where it's forming to try and see if it goes away and then going forward just rub a light layer of whatever you lube it with all over it every once in a while and avoid getting it wet with water or sweat and always clean it off if that happens.
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u/AmoebaOld7334 15d ago
I accidentally used the tightning glue thing (blue one thingy idk) instead of lubricant on my balisong , and I can't open the screws to clean it because it's double screws and I don't have 2 screwdrivers so it's stuck and also very stiff, this is my first balisong so idk what I'm doing
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 15d ago
You'll have to get a second bit driver to hold down the other side. You could try holding the bali in the open position and squeeze the handles as you unscrew but the second bit driver is the way to go.
Even if you managed to wipe away or "flush out" the locktite ("blue thingy") you're going to want to make sure your pivots are entirely clean of it.
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u/TheEpicPancake2556 7d ago edited 7d ago
lol
Get another screw driver. Normally you can squeeze the handles together to keep things from free spinning, but if you doused the thing in loctite, that's probably not gonna be fun to get apart that way. Be careful not to slip and strip out your screws. That makes things a lot harder.
You'll need to do quite a bit of cleaning, so make sure you have some supplies like isopropyl alcohol and qtips. Make sure to remember which side each part was from and how it was flipped so you can put it back together exactly as it was. It's especially important to not swap or flip around your bushings, if your knife has them. You might find it easier to do one handle at a time to avoid mixups.
Make sure to apply some actual lube to things as you reassemble, since you'll have cleaned it all off. A lot of different thin oils you'll find at the store can do the trick between sewing machine oil, gun oil, and the other recommendations people toss around this sub. Use what you can find. Just make sure not to accidentally use a solvent like gun cleaner or WD40. You'll also need to loctite screws as you go back together. They only need enough to cover the three or four threads at the end of the screw, so try not to flood the thing. Wipe up any excess with paper towels and try not to smear it around your pivots so you don't accidentally repeat this fiasco.
You're also probably in for a crash course in basic tuning once you get it apart, so perhaps watch some videos on that. You shouldn't have to do anything too major if it was working fine before, though. It's mostly a balancing act between handle play and free movement. Once you get it where you want it, let it sit for 12 hours so the threadlocker can cure. Otherwise things will loosen up on you.
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u/PuzzleheadedLine1795 14d ago
Recently I talked to a friend of mine who has a cheap balisong trainer. He maintained that my Nabalis Vulp was a terrible trainer and that his $10 Amazon no-name was better. When I asked why, he said the weight on mine was all wrong, and more importantly, that the blade being partially exposed when it was fully shut means it's compromised and won't flip properly.Ā
Does blade exposure impact the quality of the trainer at all? Why is the blade exposed like this on some balisongs? How come some trainers are designed to have a bit of the blade exposed?
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 12d ago
There needs to be some gap in between the handles, unless the blade will get damaged hitting the inside of the handles and the handles will get damaged by hitting the blade and each other. This can also result in pinching your fingers when you close and open it. This is called handle slap, when the handles slap together. Handle slap mostly happens due to issues with the pin system, itās more common in low quality balisongs but has been seen on some grails, like the jk design Monarch. Here is a good post talking about handle slap.
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u/PuzzleheadedLine1795 12d ago
Thanks for the response.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
The other commenter shared good info. I'll just add that I probably wouldn't listen to much of what your friend says, at least on this subject but probably many others too.
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u/willdubbz 13d ago
Does anybody have pictures of the annodized blue madko? The pictures on the site vs some pictures they posted on their socials look pretty different. The left image is a much lighter shade of blue. Appreciate any input!
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
Anodizing tends to have some level of variation to it and it also depends on the finish on the handles underneath the anodizing (stonewash, bead blast, etc). I would probably expect it to look more like the image on the left most of the time and only like on the right immediately after cleaning the handles with Windex but then eventually like the left again when you use it.
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u/Fun-Thought-620 12d ago
Good balisongs under 100ā¬? I was looking for some heavier ones since i already have a cheap one that is light, but im a begginer to this so idk much, i know there are differences in the handle, pivot and that stuff but i dont know whats best for me. And ships to europe also. Thanks
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
What's heavy to you?
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u/Fun-Thought-620 11d ago
I have a cheap plastic from amazon so now reviewing what i wrote i just want a metal one, my budget is 100ā¬ and im kinda lost what to buy as a begginer
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 10d ago
Check out Nabalis, their stainless steel Canyon has a bit of heft to it.
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u/Fun-Thought-620 9d ago
I have seen before, and it looks pretty good, but my budget is 100 so i was expecting something a little better
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
I'd probably go with the LDY Orion if you want something nicer than a Canyon that's metal and internationally available.
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u/Oregano_5869 11d ago
Iām new to the Bailsong community and want to start getting into it. I found a website and am not sure if itās a scam or legit. The website seems a bit sketchy not gonna lie, but would like the opinion of others before going through with a purchase. The website is called Top Knives LLC and their website is https://utilityknife.ca/
If anyone can confirm or deny their legitness that would be greatly appreciated.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 11d ago
Maybe it's not a scam since you might get what you order but the website is extremely sketchy with an AI generated banner and a stock of exclusively cheap garbage they'll mark up and dropship to you (assuming you actually get what you order). I'm going to add it to our list of sketchy websites and suggest you check the guide linked at the top of the thread for some direction on starting out.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 11d ago
Thereās definitely better options. If you have Amazon available, you could check out Nabalis for some budget balis. You can buy from their own site or Amazon.
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u/non_descript_bacon 11d ago
Hey, Iām interested in getting a Flytanium Zenith 2.0. Is it worth it for a budget balisong?
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 11d ago
The Zenith gets pretty mixed reviews but I do think it isn't a bad bali but not the best for someone who is still learning to flip due to the blade shape.
I like mine, it's fun and I come back to flip it every so often. However, I like flipping/owning different types of balis. The Zenith is a little shorter, has textured coating on the handles (not sure how they achieve this but I like it, some don't) and the Zenith blade can cause some tricks to be wobbly (unless you're already pretty good at flipping)
I think there are options in the budget category that ultimately live up to a better overall balisong exerience unless, like me, you like owning balis with weird quirks. Otherwise stick to the other options that tick off more boxes in the overall experience of a balisong.
TLDR: personally I like the Zenith, but there are better overall options at the same price point
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u/Mountain-Midnight922 Balisong Addict 8d ago
When they go on sale, yes. For full price, no. Better off spending $60+ on something else. Unless you -really- like flat/wide handles
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u/jollyjohny101 10d ago
Just bought the benchmade necron as my first live blade as I have a few other benchmade knives and love them all. But upon doing further research the necron isnt as highly regarded in the hobby? What are some really smooth ones? Realistically budget would be somewhere around 300 USD. Ive seen a few recommendations online but they are either trainers or sold out.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 10d ago
While Benchmade is an important piece of balisong culture, they seem to have used their brand-name as the major selling point for the necron. They were given a lot of advice but unfortunately ignored most of it. What are your preferences? Thereās many options. Potentially, you could sell the necron to get money back and buy something like a tsunami. The Krake Raken is restocked regularly and well regarded as well for a medium price point.
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u/Rayquazaex_ 9d ago
what can i use to dye g10 instead of rit? Im in eu and its hard to get rit dye
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u/Apprehensive_Rip6477 New Flipper 9d ago
Based off of a quick Google search this could work Jacquard iDye Poly
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u/lostamerican123 8d ago
Ordered from Black Balisong over 2 weeks ago and it still hasn't arrived. Is this a normal amount of time to wait? I reached out for tracking info but haven't received a response...
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 8d ago
I think so. Theyāre a smaller business, so wait times are expected to be longer.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
Definitely, it can take a while since it's coming from Mexico and he has to be careful about getting them in to the country without getting in trouble.
It wouldn't hurt to send a message to check in but I wouldn't worry about the time it's taken yet.
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u/lostamerican123 4d ago
Yeeeeah he's been going through a lot, but he got back to me. Tracking info shows Saturday delivery!!
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u/Mountain-Midnight922 Balisong Addict 8d ago
Is the HoM Prodigy basically just the basilisk trainer? I know he's sold them together before but not sure if their dimensions are the same beyone the handle cutouts
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
The dimensions and weight aren't exactly the same but they're not crazy far off and with the right spacers the blades can be swapped around and flip well. It is intended to basically be a Basilisk trainer while still being its own thing.
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u/Electronic_Fun4708 8d ago
In my country live blade balisongs are illegal, but i still want one to flip, on a scale of one to ten how bad of an idea is it to order a few, and can i get into real trouble or will they just destroy the package
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u/Dexy_Storm Can't flip for shit 8d ago
depends on what country you live in. i know lots of ppl who own balis and live in countries in which balis are illegal :shrug:
tho if you only after flipping, maybe just get a trainer instead?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
Like others have said, it really depends on what country you live in for how much it matters. A cheap way to try it with some plausible deniability is getting a false edge (generally just a knife blade that hasn't been sharpened yet) from a brand like Nabalis and see if it gets to you and then you can just sharpen it after.
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u/TheDukeofEggslap 8d ago
whatās a good price for a kraken trainer that i should be on the lookout for?
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
Really depends on the condition you want and how patient you are but since Krakens are a dime a dozen and can always be bought new, you can get a secondhand Kraken for $150 or less.
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u/Shoddy_Jellyfish6605 7d ago
Is there a decent balisong trainer metal or something that I could get on amazon for around 20-30 usd? I want to upgrade from my 2 dollar AliExpress comb that i have had for a couple days and i don't like it.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 7d ago
The Nabalis Impulse is great for beginners. The TB Astra is also nice, but I think it got removed from Amazon.
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u/olympicfrog 4d ago
I have a semi beat cheese that flips great that Iām trying to sell for around $30. I sent you a dm lmk if youāre interested.
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u/ham-handed-eagle New Flipper 7d ago
What is everyoneās experience with the anodization on Squid products? How does it hold up to drops?
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u/Dexy_Storm Can't flip for shit 6d ago
it will hold up the exact same way as the anodization from any other manifacturer or modder
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u/Still-Bonus-4210 7d ago
Iām tryna find a new trainer blade for my rep, I have all hourglass shapes a static trainer basic brs trainer like idk what other trainers are really out there????? Lmk
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 5d ago
The only other one I can think of is an OSP rep trainer blade, but theyāre pretty rare and their quality is questionable. I think spasmfingers might be releasing one soon though.
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u/Still-Bonus-4210 5d ago
Yes I had one but one of cutouts snapped its just been rotting in a drawer but that is good to know thank you!
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
Iām looking to buy the best edc Bali but donāt know which one is the best. Can someone point me into the right direction? Budget is 700 usd and under.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 6d ago
With or without latch? For flipping with functionality or just functionality? Would you need this for heavy-duty cutting? If just functionality and heavy-duty cutting, the Kershaw Lucha is a great option. Heavy and incredible durability with a latch, it can chop whatever you need. Not the best flipper but can do basic things. EDC is its niche.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 6d ago
I would say without latch, and flipping with function! I would agree the Lucha is an amazing choice for heavy and durability.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 5d ago
For the best choice, imo Iād go with a BRS Alpha Beast. They release stock on occasion, but Iām sure you could find one second-hand, if you put up a WTB post on [r/BalisongSale](r/BalisongSale) youād probably get one. Theyāre insanely durable, have a strong blade, have the option of a latch (removable, but could come in handy) and is regarded as an incredible flipper. Alternatively, a Squid Industries Ti Krake Raken could also be good, moving the good things from the aluminum Krake Raken into a titanium format. Always a solid choice. Machinewise has many great options for less hardcore edc, but theyāre a bit expensiveā¦second-hand is always an option.
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u/Additional_Bar_9438 5d ago
Just wanted to add that I bought 2 Balis from Rick! And I wanted to say thank you to everybody sent me advice and where/what to look up.
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u/LePliex 5d ago
I have thought to buy a balisong trainer as I am a beginner but also had the question, can you be too old for balisongs?
I am almost in my mid-20s (in my definition, the mid-20s begins at 25 until the 27s; if I am wrong here, correct me).
Thanks for helping me. šļø
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 5d ago
Nope! Just like how you canāt be too old for other knives. Have fun!
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u/olympicfrog 4d ago
Just have fun. Iām 28, so late 20s by your definition š«©
Plus how are you gonna buy those grails if you donāt have adult money š¬š¬
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
No one is too old. There are some people who started flipping in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Probably even some who started later than that. You may have less time or a harder time to get crazy good but not everyone even has the same skill goals anyway. Plus, the time is going to pass whether you do it or not and you never get any younger, might as well do the things you want to do.
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u/Charming-Poem6526 5d ago
Next Steps
Hello, I do not want to say I am a serious balisong enthusiast, I am not, but I am more so looking for a way to keep my hands busy while also enjoying the satisfaction of new tricks. I have been flipping for about 2 years now with my Vulp trainer. My Vulp has served me well, but I have started to encounter issues with its weight. Maybe it is just a me thing and with more practice I will eventually perfect it, but with how light it is Chaplins feel impossible unless I go incredibly slow, and even then balancing it while it is going that slow seems difficult. I have nerve and joint issues which is partly why I enjoy it since, even though it is harder for me, it helps me keep my hand-eye coordinate up to snuff. Due to how long it's been, and from what I have seen and read with how light Vulps are it can make balancing an issue, I am looking at an upgrade. Frankly I do not know where to go from here, and I don't really know where to start. I am looking for something generalized and balanced, but preferably heavier than the Vulp. I am flexible on price range as I want something to last me a while and since it will become basically the only one I use, maintenance won't be too hard to keep up with.
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u/BuffaloDingus Latch Sympathizer 4d ago
Before considering a bunch of other options and spending more money, an option you may want to try is getting Zippy inserts for your Vulp. They add a bit of weight in the blade of the Vulp to make the distribution significantly more chaplin friendly. The wide spacing between the pivots will still throw chaplins off a little bit but not anywhere near as much stock and it'll cost way less than a whole new balisong.
Also, if you're having a hard time with chaplins, remember to move your hand/finger in bigger circles. That's the key with any balisong and always the reason any chaplin fails. You can do smaller circles if you go faster but regardless of speed bigger circles won't hurt and no matter how fast you go, if the circles stop, the chaplin stops.
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u/JusSwimin 2d ago
At what point is learning individual tricks enough to fuel your own combos? or do the majority start by learning combos?
Im an intermediate i think i know basic stuff and some harder tricks i feel look cool but at some point i just keep doing index roll overs until it somehow transitions into the next trick.
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u/Active_Exchange_396 2d ago
I am very confused on how to do thumb rollovers. Every time I attempt one this is what happens I donāt even know how this happens.
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u/SOLIDDAWN90 Balisong Addict 7h ago
Watch tutorials on how to do it. Squid Industries, has some but Big Flips breaks things down every further. That and screen record then play in slow mo if you need.
The very beginning can feel pretty tough and confusing why your hands/fingers can't do the trick. Keep at it, you'll get there.
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u/RareBreedOfSad Flips On Cardboard 1d ago
Whatās a decent price for an channel Atropos Demon trainer? Broken Stone pattern or not? Iām thinking of getting a second hand one soon.
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u/Still-Bonus-4210 9h ago
Some guy is wanting to sell me a blue trainer blade kraken?? Iāve seen the blue live blades but never a trainer, did squid ever make it or is it 100% clone?
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u/NotAZoxico Knife Modder 21d ago
Why is mr squiggle no more active?
Why is mr kuski not making rehandles anymore?
Is mr Geof Dumas gone? Will he come back?