Overview
The P39S keeps things tight: 122 mm closed, 212 mm open, for a 90 mm blade in stainless steel. That blade follows a clip-point profile, with the spine dropping away at an angle towards the tip, and measures 3 mm thick along the back. The two half-handles, silver in tone, are pierced with an alternating run of round holes and slots along their length, hinting at the blade when the knife is shut.
Two pivots and a latch
A butterfly knife does not unfold like an ordinary folder. Its blade is sandwiched between two half-handles, each mounted on its own pivot at the heel: the handles turn around the blade, not the other way round. Closed, the edge sits protected between the two halves; open, those halves meet back to back and build a solid grip behind the blade, held in place by the latch. This two-pivot arrangement is what gives the balisong its distinctive handling, and it is also why such a knife is judged as much on how freely its pivots run as on its blade.
Technical specifications
The P39S blade is stainless steel, 90 mm long, 3 mm thick, with a clip-point profile. The knife measures 122 mm closed and 212 mm open. The handles are steel with a silver finish, cut with round holes and slots along their whole length, each hinged on its own separate pivot placed at the heel of the blade.
Care
On this model, attention goes first to the two pivots: they are the parts doing the work every time it opens. One drop of light oil per pivot, placed with the tip of a cocktail stick, is enough to keep the movement crisp. Then clean the blade and handles with a dry cloth, paying attention to the round holes and slots where dust gathers. Dry the knife completely before closing it and keep it away from damp surroundings.
Legal notice. Age-restricted item (18+). In France this knife is a Category D item: legal to sell but reserved for adults, with age verification at checkout. Balisong (butterfly) knives are restricted or prohibited in a number of countries — Germany, Canada and several US states among them — and customs will seize the parcel. Check the law that applies where the order is delivered before purchasing.
