Is Spyderco planning on making butterfly knives?

[clipiteer]

Will Spyderco make butterfly knives? I'm looking for a butterfly knife and have been considering the Benchmade balisong but I would much rather have a Spyderco. Also, it would be nice to find one in the $70-100 range.

[vampyrewolf]

We have asked in the past, and, paraphrasing sal here...
"Autos are illegal in Colorado, and thus, we will not/can not make them."

I'm in the same spot you are, but up here they are completely illegal. Buying one from a guy at work for $30... probably a POS, after working with spydies for the last 2 yrs, but it's a butterfly I'll have.

[clipiteer]

VampyreWolf, thanks for responding so quickly. I have seen a few cheap butterfly knives($20), but wanted something more reliable. Oh well, I guess there's always the Balisong.

clipiteer

[Guntaholic]

Clip, if you do a search on the MBC forum I asked a similar question about MBC knives I would like to see...I got a great explanations as to why we will probably not see a butterfly knife from Spyderco....

[vampyrewolf]

clipiteer, check out "Paratrooper" knives... they fit in the gray area of autos...

I just picked one up on the way home today for $20 from Cutting Edge. Only a 3" blade, but it's actually quite nice.

[sal]

Well, it seems that our GM, Jeff, checked with the local police and has determined that it is not illegal for us to make Butterfly knives in Colorado. It is apparently illegal to carry/possess them.

Although, with Benchmade, as well as a number of other companies producing many butterfly knives, I question whether or not it would be worth our time to venture into that arena.

sal

Sal, it's true other makers other than Benchmade produce balisongs, but I feel only Benchmade is doing it with acceptable attention to quality(to fit/finish & materials).
I don't think Benchmade would feel threatend by a small excursion from Spyderco into this area.
If Spyderco were to make just one run of latchless Spyder-bali's that had the unique enlarged flip-open holes as you mentioned once before(can't remember which post), and I believe the blade was a full 4.5", 80% of them would probably get swiped up by bali collectors just for the sake of having possibly the only bali made by Spyderco ever, and also as one of the only high-end alternatives to Benchmade. As far as sales go, if only one or two runs were produced, we have to consider the collectors club, then the hardcore balisong collectors(who may purchase multiples), then the Spyderco collectors, and then the people who are none of the above, but would find the Spyder features that differentiate it from the tons of other weehawk standard designs unique enough to buy one.
I know you probably never totally rule out wild ideas(like this one), because most likely they are just ahead of the times, so please keep this one somewhere on Spydercos board, even if it's way in the bottom corner.

Release an idea too early and people call you a lunatic, release it just ahead of the curve and you're a genius.

Ken

Edited by - KenN on 5/31/2001 1:53:07 PM

[Carlos]

Hi Sal,

While there are a bunch of companies producing balisongs, only Benchmade is making one of decent quality. Microtech will supposedly be making an extremely expensive (over $200) high-tech modular balisong sometime in the future -- but I'll believe it when I see it.

IMO there is plenty of room in the market for a limited production, Filipino-style, latchless Spydie Bali. Perhaps another SKU in the collection could be eliminated to make room for a balisong?

Edited by - Carlos on 6/2/2001 7:23:14 AM

[WTFOver]

"Filipino-style, latchless Spydie Bali" -
Done up with:
4.5" Spyderedge blade!
Magnet in each handle to keep it closed
Bottom 2 holes larger for "drop" openings
Clip on one handle, tip up carry.
Hole on same or second handle to convert to tip down carry

Please consider Boron Carbide coating. This would look awesome and the knives I’ve had with this coating have worn very well. Not near as fragile a coating as the Blak-Ti (I love it but I know Sal has been hesitant to return the Blak-Ti coating due to “flaking”, “scratching” & “chipping” problems in the past.


You can bet I'd get 3 or 4.


-In Beer there is Strength...-In Wine there is Wisdom...-In Water there is BACTERIA... Old German Proverb

[clipiteer]

sal,
Consider that by not entering the Bali market because there are "a number of other companies producing many Butterfly knives", that's like saying that Spyderco doesn't need to make knives with liner locks or fixed blade knives or lockbacks or any other type of knife because someone else already makes plenty of them. With that philosophy, Spyderco would have never existed[:-( ]because there were already plenty of other manufacturers making knives. Making Balisongs would also expand Spyderco's market. Benchmade would be the only real competition, because who in their right mind would choose that poor little dull Balisong rusting in peace over a Spydie Bali? The least you could do would be to make a limited run of them(which would instanty become collector's items; the first Butterflies made by Spyderco)to see if people would buy them, and then, when they did, start making a production Bali in VG-10 or 440V blade steel with Titanium handles, a 3.5 to 4 inch blade in Spyderedge,50/50, or PlainEdge, the "magnet latch" that WTFOVER mentioned and a Weehawk blade. Fellow Spyder knuts, what do you think? Would you like to see a Spyderco Butterfly? How about "Spyderfly" for a name? Sal, hope you"ll consider this.

clipiteer

clipiteer

[Michael G73]

Would I like to see a Spyderco Butterfly? Of course! Would I buy one? If I could. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Living in California, I can OWN a butterfly, I just can't buy, sell or carry one. And if I can't carry one, I don't think I'd want to own it.

That said, I think it'd be a great idea for Spyderco to enter the Butterfly market. Like others have said, from what I've seen, only Benchmade is doing anything more than a mediocre job (and I think they've done an incredible work with theirs).

I know if I COULD buy/carry a butterfly, I'd like one a tad smaller than the Benchmade one (more of a 3&quot; to 3.5 inch blade). Perhaps (should all this come to be someday) the guys and gals at Spyderco could produce a &quot;full sized&quot; and a &quot;junior&quot; sized edition?

Just my quickly depreciating two cents worth.

-Michael

An aside, does anyone know what the deal is with Butterflies and why so many states don't like them? I've never thought of them as &quot;automatic&quot;- no springs, levers or push buttons. In fact, they sometimes seem to take more work to open than a roundhole or thumbstud...

Edited by - TheMacGuy on 6/1/2001 12:07:38 PM

[Michael Janich]

Dear Sal:

In case I never told you, I've been a balisong freak for a long time. As such, the idea of a Spyderco bali sounds phenomenal.

When I was in the military and working for DoD overseas, I carried a Benchmade Model 68 for about 10 years. It was my primary utility and defensive knife, as well as a great means of keeping myself entertained while waiting for helicopters and uncooperative foreign officials.

When I moved back to the U.S. and the prejudice against balisongs began to hit hard, I reluctantly retired my Model 68 and switched to a more conventional folder. Then one day I had the bright idea to circumvent the bali prejudice by creating a short-bladed butterfly with conventional handles that would be the equivalent of a California-legal switchblade. I promptly drafted a letter describing the concept and sent it off to Benchmade, but never received a reply.

How about Model 68-sized (about 4-inches)titanium handles (nicely rounded in cross section to roll easily), magnets in the handles, a pocket clip on the &quot;free&quot; handle (the one into which the blade edge folds), and a 1-15/16-inch blade with an extended, V-shaped tang for striking? The short blade/long handle combination would require a subtle technique adjustment to avoid getting nicked by the blade point, but I think it would be a great concept that might allow some bali fans to once again carry legally.

If that idea doesn't fly, make any other balisong design you want to the usual high Spyderco quality standards and put me down for three.

mike j

[Eclipse]

I would buy several spyderco balis. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

[sam the man..]

My money is on bandages and cut-aids... *hee-hee!* <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Sam

have spydies will travel

[alex_111]

i'd defnitely love to see spyderco make a balisong. i have several cheapies and a benchmade (balisongs, that is), but i've always favored spyderco knives in any other area. if there were a spydie balisong, i'd love to have at least one. (besides, the design sounds pretty wicked! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>)

[ACStudios]

Sal,

I believe that you would do very well in the Balisong market. This is an area which is about to explode with Microtech and others jumping on board. I know that there is a very active group of balisong folks over on bladeforums which are starving for quality made blades.

I've carried a Delica for the last... oh gosh, I forgot how long now... well since the early nineties. It is my favorite knife, even though it has seen a lot, and shows, a lot of use. The thought of a Spydie Balisong model definitely gets me excited.

I hope you recognize the potential in this market. I think you'll be happy with the results.

Regards,

Alan

[ChungSan]

I think another production balisong would be great. Right now Benchmade really only has one model.(handle colors and a comboedges are just preferences) On a second note, there isn't anyone making custom balisongs to order.(that is in a fast process) I would definately buy a high quality balisong from Spyderco.

Chung San

[2Sharp]

Damn! i thought that i'd posted this twice, but i hadn't, this forums i'm not used to!! i do need to be here more often!!
Anyway, i do want to see Spyderco come up with balisongs, i'd but more then a few...

Or maybe not, imagine how much blood i'd love if i had a bali with a spyderedge :O


&quot;May all your detonations be expected&quot;

Edited by - 2Sharp on 6/3/2001 7:31:15 AM

Edited by - 2Sharp on 6/3/2001 7:41:30 AM

[mario]

Hi Sal,
now you have a serious new challenge: how to show that Spyderco can be successfull no matter which style or use has to be the knife for...
I'm sure you'll succeed, and I'll buy this Spyderbutterfly, because I know that it will be interesting in design, good in the quality of the materials, and original...like any Spyderco knife.

EX ALTO FULGOR

[J D Wijbenga]

I like the quality and innovation off Spyderco knives. My EDC is a Starmate. So I would love to see a Spyderco balisong. For me it should have a blade shorter than 9cm to be legal. I would also appreciate steel or alluminium handles for a affordable price. It should be a user not just a collectors piece.

[sal]

Hi Alex, AC &amp; Chungsan. Welcome to the Spyderco forum.

As a point of interest (history lesson), Spyderco promoted Benchmades Butterfly's (then called Pacific Cutlery Corp) all over the USA while demonsgtrating our sharpeners. this was before Clipits, Circa '79 on.

You guys sure push hard.

sal

[ChungSan]

What can we say? We're balisong addicts.<img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle><img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle><img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Chung San

[ACStudios]

Sal,

It is the thought of another excellent knife to play...er... I mean use that fires us up <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Alan

[afee]

I don't know if it will ever happen, but i know i've been asking for a few years and can count myself in for at least 1-2 of them. A damn fine addition to a great line up. bowie syling would be nice, especially with a Chinook quality =)

[sal]

It Seems that Carlos (another troublemaker) has started a thread on the Blade forums Bali forum. I've posted there with some questions on design. You might visit over there as well as we &quot;explore&quot; this concept. I need all of the input I can get.

Hey Mike (Janich) Let's get together when I get back from the Blade Show. I would like to discuss the Yojimbo design further as well.

sal

[Paul Rouleau]

Mike Janich's design sounds great.The extended tang would be excellent for less than lethal strikes without deploying the blade,much like the gunting.The full size handles should have enough weight for flailing impacts.I like the under 2 inch blade idea for making it legal in more areas.A second model with 3 or 4 inch blade could also be made to satisfy those who don't feel 2 inches of blade is enough for their purposes.Magnets instead of a latch sounds good as well.A trainer and perhaps a concealex sheath for both horizontal and vertical carry could complete the package.A Mike Janich MBC balisong designed primarily for less than lethal applications,like the gunting.I'll buy one.Maybe more than one.

[yog]

Just as a matter of interest, why are balisongs banned in so many places ?

It can't be because of their opening speed. Any half decent folder can be flicked open faster than a bali. Even when I drop open a bali whilst holding the latch into an ice pick grip (about the fastest opening I know), it still isn't as fast as the half push with the thumb hole / stud and flick of a folder.

Like I said, just curious.

[TJ_dude]

I never came here before but I have 5 of your knives and I really want a spyderco balisong I would buy a few,I came here to post after the post on blade forum !!I want one that wont break for under 75 bucks maybee a less basic model we can abuse for 39.95 ,people like us break alot of balisongs so make it strong

thanks

TJ_dude

[sal]

Hi Paul, TJ. Welcome.

We can work on price, but a quality bali for $39.95 is IMO not possible. Too much use. The &quot;Bali Dance&quot; is equivalent to taking one knife and beating it on another knife over and over again. Need tough materials and close tolerances to make a &quot;good&quot; one.

sal

M. Janich has an interesting/practical feature recommendation that I'd very much support for a Spyderbali in the extended tapered tang.

In addition to the extended striking tang, I'd like to see a decent guard(integral to the tang)that is more pronounced than on most current balis hopefully on both sides(unless this adds too much weight).

However, as mentioned above, I think a second version with at least a 4&quot; blade minimum is going to be neccesary.
One thing I'd like to see is more sculpting of the metal handles(similar to the upcoming Meerkats)for increased grip traction, as opposed to inset kraton.

I find latches on balis impractical because, a firm grip on the handles will release the friction on the latch. The actual 'lock' is secured by the hand not the latch anyway. IMO.

Thanks for asking.
Ken


Edited by - KenN on 6/8/2001 12:54:08 PM

[Guntaholic]

What a let down!!!! I got all excited about a Bali from Spyderco... Did some research and it looks like no matter what the size is, here in New York it will land me straight in Jail!!!! I sure wish I lived somewhere else!!! <img src="sad.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

[Paul Rouleau]

Hello Sal,thanks for the welcome.I was wondering if it would be possible to make a modular balisong?Could it be made so the pins could be removed and different lengths and styles of blades and handles installed?With such a system just about everyone could have a balisong to fit their needs.It would certainly be a unique approach to the problem of trying to satisfy everyone.

[afee]

Hey Paul, modular balis seem to be better in concept then in reality. First off, its a pain to make one that can withstand severl hundred cyclings at a time (a decent bali routine) and still have pins that can come out to sawp blades.

That, and remember those kershaw things where you could swap out the big knife blade for a fillet knife or a saw? Not real popular. People would rather have one solid tool.

[afee]

I just posted a responce (OK, it was yesterday) to the bali thread in the MBC forum regarding my views on construction and intent. Feel free to add your own opinions (especially if you agree =) ).

E

[ftkinney]

to give a possible ansewr to yog's question. i think the illegalness of the balisong stems from the perception by the athouries of the user and interntion of the use of the knife. i.e.: in some places &quot;box cutter&quot; style knifes became illegal to carry in the late 90's for the same reason. i know one town in texas were conceled posession of a &quot;box cutter&quot; will get you jail time wile a 5 1/2&quot; folder in your pocket is compleatly fine.

FTK

[ftkinney]

yog -- you might try and ask the &quot;forumite&quot; seth he seems up on laws and the history of them try on the MBC forum. i think califorina and new york idea of gang voilence paved the way for a &quot;bali crack down&quot; in the 1970's, but this is just a guess.

Edited by - ftkinney on 6/15/2001 12:37:49 AM

[toothed]

Hey, Sal did not say, &quot;No&quot; to a Spyderco bali so here's my suggestions.

IMO, to be done right the bali would have to be made with quality materials which would probably result in a retail price range between $150 to $200. It would be a shame for Spyderco to make a knife with cheap materials and lower its standards just to hit a certain &quot;low price&quot; point. Spyderco should build the knife the best way they know how and let the price point fall where ever it may.

How about a stainless steel frame with G-10 (or micarta) scales for the handle and a blade like the SS Police (hollow ground--not flat ground). Spyderco is ahead of the game with their &quot;R&quot; and &quot;Q&quot; knives already displaying some radical cutout designs which may be incorporated into the bali.

Forget the magnetic &quot;latch&quot;--I wouldn't trust it. I would prefer the Batangas latch over the Manila latch--and don't forget the latch gate to protect the blade. A removable and/or reversible latch would also be nice. Installing a pocktet clip on the bali would really make it unique but I don't know if it can be done without affecting its maneuverability (a higher priority).

Is it premature to start a thread to name the &quot;upcoming&quot; Spyderco bali? Just kidding. <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

P.S. Alternatively, Michael Janich's concept is very interesting and could be a viable MBC item. If that is the direction that Spyderco will be going, please allow us to give input on that design before its pre-production.

[sal]

I'm open to any and all input. I've been collecting some input from the thread that Carlos posted on the Bladeforums Balisong forum.

I guess &quot;no&quot; is no longer. We're into the &quot;it's possible&quot; realm. Thanx, I really appreciate the interest, support and sugestions.

sal

[chambers]

Hey guys,
just as a note Bear MGC puts out a rather nice line of balisong, in the $30 to $50 range. they're one step above POS quality though not quite Benchmate.

[chambers]

Hey guys,
just as a note Bear MGC puts out a rather nice line of balisong, in the $30 to $50 range. they're one step above POS quality though not quite Benchmate.

[chambers]

Hey guys
just as a note Bear MGC puts out a rather nice line of balisong, in the $30 to $50 range. they're one step above POS quality though not quite Benchmate.

[clipiteer]

Hi Chambers, and welcome. I have a Bear bali and it is very nice for the $12 I payed for it and is surprisingly sharp. I got it really cheap at a store that has about a 25% discount on most any knife, including Spydies.=)
-clip

[sal]

Hi Chambers. Welcome to the Spyderco forum.

sal

[TJ_dude]

I just would like to make a comment about Bear Balisongs ,Bear balisongs are what Spyderco does not want to make .Bear balisongs have a die cast handle and after 3 days of serious flipping the non latch handle breaks in half due to stress right in the middle of the first hole ,I broke 4 then gave up on Bears .

TJ

[Lothar.OTHP]

Just thought I'd throw my support in for the idea. So many folks at the bladeforums/balisong forum have been pining for new bali's in the marketplace that are quality and affordable.

Personally, I think a bali with handles of a similar character to some of the stainless handled clipits would be an immense success, all things considered. It would, if nothing else, add a touch of true class. Since the general public sees skeletonized handles and automatically thinks of outlaw gang types, a classier stainless job would be fantastic... IMHO

[este]

I am a dealer for Spyderco and would love to see a Balisong knife developed. There are many fans of the company that would be enticed to look at such a knife and many more balisong users that would to buy a quality piece from Spyderco

[sal]

Hi Lothar &amp; Este, Welcome to the Spyderco forum.

sal

[sam the man..]

Dear Poppa Spyder, fellow Spydernuts and all at Spyderco,

If Spyderco produces a Butterfly knife, what will it be named?
a) Spyderfly knife
b) Spydersong
c) Spyder-Balisong
d) Model C__?

Sam

have spydies will travel

[stu]

Samo,

I have been thinking about a name too. I know that it is silly...SpyderBal. However, the plural form may be offensive.

Take care,

stu

[sam the man..]

Howdy Stu! Spyder-Bal... *~LOL~* <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> Now, that's really funny dude! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Sam

have spydies will travel

[myklknife]

I would personally kill for a fully serrated bali. Well maybe not kill a person but my pocket book without question.

[MouserSwift]

I'm a street performer (juggling, fire-eating, yadda-yadda-yadda) I incorporate balisong routine into my bit...I can easily spend $500 bucks a year on equipment. I'm also a knife geek (add another $700 on knives alone) Benchmade..ahh... I can actually tighten the tension! (big fat harry deal) Microtech..Ohhh..I can look like a Navy Seal ninja whilst I flip it! (low profile is not what Bali's are about) Swat?..(nice, but too light, and again, who'll notice that black T6)...
Please, people in the industry, listen to the people who buy your product. We want a production Bali that has an aesthetic appeal that any competent buyer can clean, adjust, and, maintain (Trash buyers-disregaurd, let me know when you have evolved)
My full time job is as a manager for a local knife dealer, and I have every opportunity to see which way the wind is blowing..Bali's are BACK.
A few years back a major knife company was having a hard time in the brave new world of tactical knives, they tried a few new, cool designs, but to no avail. Then they hired a new designer few had heard of and sales went through the roof (I won't give names, but a clue..(push,flick,snickt)
Sal, I implore you. Spyderco was the (ohh, this pun hurts) cutting edge in modern cutlery 15 years ago. (P.S. the Spyderco Sharpmaker is STILL the best damn sharpener on the market) There IS a market out there! Take advantage of it while you still can. There is young talent out there who can show you the way. Will balisong sales outdo Delica sales, hell no. Will they beat out Bob Lum sales? (no disrespect, he's a great man) I think so..
O.K. sorry for the tirade, I'm done

[Mancer]

Hmmmm, Spyderco making butterfly knives?, personally Im not a fan of these blades at all, infact cant stand them (using them that is), my blades must have some form of lock, wether lockback or liner, love that firm crisp &quot;click&quot;.

Id be interested to see what happens with this idea though, and what the blade would turn out like if Spyderco decide to go ahead with this.

Good luck Sal

MaNcEr

It's Time To Kick @$$ 'N Chew Bubble Gum

[afee]

While I can't make you like them, I am interested in the reasoning you put forth. The bali has one of the most fail safe locks on the market. When open, you have two stop pins (the handle pins), and two metal bars, the handles, pinching on the blade. A properly fittet tang pin prevents the blade from moving between these two handles. Conventional bali's generally have a latch, wich, when closed in the open position, locks the base of the handles together, creating, in esence, a fixed blade. I can't see how you can see these as non-locking.

[MouserSwift]

The magnet concept is intresting, half the die-hards I talk to say,&quot;Yeeechh&quot;. The other half say,&quot;Coooolll&quot;...Do a ltd. of 1k eack, (mags, and latches) see which runs out first.
Pick up the diference in prod., and run the rest as collecters..

[Mancer]

hey afee, bud dont take me wrong, nothing against the blade, I just dont like that style of knife, not to my taste.
I know if you have a latch system that it would be solid, but if you had a magnetic system, Im worried that under hard working conditions it could close on the user.
Im new to the knife field, not really as knowledable as you guys, but trying to absord as much knowledge as I can, I may be completly wrong in my understanding of how the blade locks as well.

Seeya l8tr

MaNcEr

It's Time To Kick @$$ 'N Chew Bubble Gum

[john row]

I'm betting Spyderco WILL make a balisong.
John

They say there's a long tunnel with a bright light at the end. I've been there. it's just REALLY DARK!! :) LOL

[Michael G73]

A question for those who may have the know-how to find out for sure.

California is a very volatile place to have just about any kind of &quot;exotic&quot; knife. However, recently I've found several switchblade knives that are California Legal (their blades are under 2&quot; ). Since its our switchblade/gravity knife law that is always cited as to why butterfly knives are illegal, would a 1.9&quot; blade on a smallish butterfly knife be legal?

Hmm...

Thanks!

Edited by - michael g73 on 7/25/2001 5:00:04 PM

[sal]

Hi Michael. In theory, yes. a bali under 2&quot; &quot;should&quot; be legal in CA.

sal

[RattlerXX]

I would definitely purchase a Spyderco Bali for myself, and to sell in my shop as well.

[ruxton]

just thought i'd show my support, i'll get a PE and a SE one!!
MAT

[bell]

I think Spyderco should stay away from the Balisong style. Spyderco has a reputation for quality and high design standards and has no need to seek the small rambo-wannabes trick knife market.

[gunandtackle]

im pretty sure sal got into this game to make a living. if a bali will sell why not?
i personally would love to own a couple spydiebalis. i just hope there is enough interest to make it worth while.

john

[sal]

It seems that there is quite a bit of interest so far.

sal

[Pachucko]

Yuck, oh well, Don't you think other things should have priority, like the revision of the Chinook? The fixed-blade Chinook? The Steve Ryan collaboration? Just let me know if I'm beating a dead horse, wouldn't want anyone to forget--Pachucks

[Gallaghe]

First off people might want to check the law in your state closely on balisong knifes. I hear that some states are OKay with this style knife if the knife is in a pouch supplied by the manufacter. I don't always keep my BM42 in the pouch but have it in the event I think it wise to place the knife into it.

Also I much enjoy tossing my balisong around when waiting for whatever then tiddling my thumbs.

I know if Spyderco makes a balisong knife it will be of the same high quality as the rest of the Spyderco line.

Note Have you checked out the new Benchmade model 31 with a clip? I hear mixed feelings on the length (being shorter then say a model 42 or 43).

Kevin S. Gallagher

[James Y]

If Spyderco did a bali I might bite, IF...the blade is 2&quot; or so. If I can't carry it in CA then I will not buy it. Spyderco is really the leader in making 2&quot; blades that seem like much larger blades, though I would foresee a Spydiebali as having a thinner blade than, say, the Salsa due to design.

I would not consider a balisong as a trick knife for Rambo wannabes. Actually, IMO a good balisong COULD make an awesome user knife which, when held open, is basically impossible to shut on your hand. Although requiring tight tolerances to make well, the mechanism overall seems fairly simple and extremely strong. Just like any type of knife, it's only as &quot;evil&quot; as the mind of the user.

I think a small (maybe 4&quot; closed?) model with semi-wide spear-point, 1 7/8&quot; blade with SS handles for handle weight, may be a good idea. For those who want a large one, have a larger one, too...but I would only consider the smaller one for myself.
Jim

[argyll]

One more vote for a California legal Spyderco butterfly.

Argyll

[tbarahon]

Yep, count me for a California-Legal Balisong. In Spain you can't even posses them. At least at 2' or 2.5' I could have one here in California.
And talking about wishes, cheaper than the Benchmade.

Teo

[cgjones]

I'll buy at least one.

"The computer allows you to make mistakes faster than any other invention, with the possible exception of handguns and tequila." Mitch Ratcliffe

[clipiteer]

Whoa! This thread still exists! (It was my first post <b>ever </b> ! Oh, and I still want a Spyderco Balisong <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

[sal]

I can tell you that the first one that we would intro the market with would not be CA legal.

&lt;img src=&quot;spyder.gif&quot; width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0&gt;

Thanx Nico

sal



Edited by - sal on 2/23/2002 10:29:49 AM

[clipiteer]

Sal, can you give us an approximate price, size, and steel? Thanks. Will it be ready within two years or is there any way of telling?

<img src="http://www.1sks.com/images/spyderco/sc-64pbk-back.jpg">

[kraziekurtis]

Edited by - kraziekurtis on 3/26/2002 2:58:29 PM

[kraziekurtis]

bttt

<img src=http://kraziekurtis.50megs.com/samurai.gif = > Call me for replacement pocket clips for all your Spyderco products. And remember to "Make It A Good Day."

[clipiteer]

Another bump for stu.

[sal]

We're shooting for year end production.

sal

[mschwoeb]

Nice, make good stocking stuffers!

[tbarahon]

I will ask Santa to sent me one, or better, as we do in Spain, I will ask the the three kings for one. I don't care if it is not California-legal.

Teo

[Qvar]

Sal, thats fantastic news, definately gonna look forward to seeing one. Just reading through this thread, it's amazing the interest you take in the guys here.

Best wishes.

[AllenETreat]

Dear clipiteer ;
It would be interesting to
see, but I think not ( as far as <img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0> doing
this )<img src="sad.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0> , let's face it : the market is
innundated with butterfly knives. It would be
nice to see, but don't hold up your hopes.

ATE ( alias A.E.T. )

&quot;...and let him who has no sword sell his
robe and buy one...&quot; Luke 22:36

[SpyderNut]

Count me in for a Spydie Bali-song!<img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0><img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0><img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>
I was this close, &gt;<img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>&lt;, to buying a Benchmade butterfly knife before Christmas, last year. I think I'd like one that had the <img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0> on it more.<img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

Spydernut

[stu]

Thanks everyone for the help. Thanks Mr. Glesser for the info. It looks like it's going to happen.

Take care,
stu

[stu]

Sorry, triple post.

Edited by - stu on 3/18/2002 8:11:13 AM

[stu]

Sorry, triple post. Kept getting failure notice!

Edited by - stu on 3/18/2002 8:10:21 AM

[Dan GSR]

I don't care how much it costs.
Give me a spyderco balisong.
A 2 inch bali would be stupid, not enough to twirl.
At least 4 inches, if not more.

[Gallaghe]

To whom it may concern:
After begging and pleding repeatedly I was able to &quot;borrow&quot; the proto-fly for a day to evaluate. WOW this is going to a very different but yet very cool piece.I have been flipping fly's for quite awhile seroiusly __for the last 5-6 yrs. and have handled about ever thing under the sun and I was and still am impressed what they are going to be.

A wise man once told me: We all operate on different levels of perfection!

Edited by - __SPYDERHOLIC__II on 4/25/2002 6:01:35 PM

[liko]

Just another bump, and a question... Could we see a pic of the prototype, or would that be too much of a giveaway?

This thread has gained a lot of interest... C'mon, give us something for our intrigue! A set of dimensions and a short description would suffice, though a pic would be sweet!

Wise man say, forgiveness is divine. Remember that when your <img src="http://www.spyderco.com/forum/spyder.gif" border=0> bites you!

[yog]

Spyderholic_II, I hate you <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

Don't suppose you managed to get a snap of it whilst it was in your grubby mits ?

You hint at differences to more traditional bali's. Any hints on what those differences are ?

Walk softly, carry a big stick.

[dialex]

It was a time when I was crazy for butterflies (the knives, of course<img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>. This was happening just after I was crazy for autos (also knives <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>. Now I'm crazy for spidies, and it seems it's gonna last <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>. Anyway, after several years of carrying and using butterfly knives, I saw that a good butterfly, a really good one, still waits to be manufactured. I know Benchmade is fine, but just open and close it a few thousand times, (it's not that hard, I did it easily with my butterflies, just the way you open and close your spidie while watching TV or surfing the Net) and you'll notice that inevitable bladeplay, even at a quality knife like Benchmade's. I think it requires a lot of study to make a perfectly balanced balisong, that's why I'm saying that a really good one is yet to come.
(On the other hand, why not be Spyderco the first to mak it? <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

[AllenETreat]

<img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

ATE

[Pachucko]

Not again!
On second thought;
Which thread holds the longest thread record?

Pachucks

[Pachucko]

How interesting. We all know that when you get an error message your post really did go through. You can open up the thread again to verify this. But it seems that your post count doesn't change. Who else has noticed this? Also if you hit the &quot;back&quot; button and do it again your post count will still be the same.
I must be bored,
Pachucks

[vampyrewolf]

pachucko&gt; used to be an edit increased your count also... and then the posting bug hit, and I've had days where I make 5-10 posts and my count only goes up 2-3...

<img src=http://us.f1.yahoofs.com/users/372fcedb/bc/toys/samurai2.gif?bcDo_58A88UxWudf> We all start with 10 fingers. Those with Spydies have 9 to spare, Still need a thumb. Good thing I still have 8 to spare... <img src=http://us.f1.yahoofs.com/users/372fcedb/bc/toys/samurai2.gif?bcDo_58A88UxWudf>

[java]

Hmmmm..

A Spyder bali? I'm in for two minimum - pouched-carry, CA legal, whatever. Much of &quot;the collection&quot; stays within the castle walls anyway. Speaking of butterflys and castles how does the model CXX Monarch sound??

Okay. I was just was amazed at the support out there for <img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>co to build a better bali and had to add my $.02 worth of support. I'll go make another pot of joe now........


Stay safe! Stay sharp! <img src="spyder.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

[grahjas]

I need a new knife, and i want a Spyderco. My father has had a Delica for five years and loves it. I am also a big fan of balis. Did anything ever come out of this project?

[Blades]

grahjas,
Welcome to the Spydie forum!!! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>
Yes Spyderco is planning to make a balisong. There were reports of a pre-proto&quot;Don't ask about&quot; piece being seen at Blade. They are maybe being released this year, but I wouldn't look for them any time soon. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0> Spyderco won't release them untill they are right. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>
So start saving your nickel's and dime's.


Blades

[ken]

What a great thread and what good answers!

What else could be said! Just make it. They are the most fun knife out there-heck you make kitchen knives-fixed blade knives-a multi tool-a &quot;SAW&quot; why not a &quot;Bali!!!&quot;.

Since when is a balisong considered an auto????

ken

[antichristina]

It's extremly doughtfull they will ever produce them.

&quot;inside sources tell me <img src="sad.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

[J Smith]

TN law ststes that a Balisong(butterfly knife)is not to be concidered an automatic knife.

I learn something new everyday,even though I don't want to. Jeff

[clipiteer]

Sal, thanks for valuing the input of your customers enough to even consider this... Spyderco is one of the few companies I know that actually listens to their customers, the only other one being AGD. And if they ever come out I'll definately buy one <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

BTW, it only took 3 years too :D

<!--StartFragment--><img src="http://a2.cpimg.com/image/BC/CC/8815292af82-00D50064-.jpg<!--EndFragment-->

[sal]

We're tooling now. Perhaps &quot;inside sources&quot; are not as &quot;inside&quot; as they think?

sal

[clipiteer]

lol

Can you give us any details, pref. approximate price and blade length/ material?

[matthewdanger]

I know I am getting in on this late, but I have to be heard! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle border=0>

I would love a Spyderco Bali!!! I heard the rumors a while ago and I immediately thought &quot;YES, PLEASE!&quot;

I think that Balis have tremendous potential as EDC blades. They are fast into action and secure. Who better than Spyderco to change people's minds about butterflies as evil devices to practical tools.

And please please please find a way to incorporate the Spydie hole!

Thanks