Argentine Ant 440c Original Filipino Balisong butterfly Knife BF-02
Original price was: $142.95.$107.21Current price is: $107.21.
Blade Materials – 440c stainless Steel
Handle Materials – Stainless Steel with Carabao Horn Inserts
Overall Length – 22cm
Blade Length -11cm
Weight – 175g
Handmade in Austin, TX. Ships Worldwide.
Every knife is built by hand in our workshop in Austin, Texas, by Filipino makers trained in the Batangas tradition. We ship to any country we are allowed to send a knife to. Free shipping inside the United States, 49 USD flat everywhere else. Shipping and delivery times
The BF-02 Argentine Ant is a 22cm balisong with an 11cm blade, 175g, stainless bolsters with carabao horn. It is the cheapest 440C knife we make and the only one on a 22cm frame, which is the whole point of it.
Frame size is the decision most people get wrong
Buyers agonise over steel and then pick a size by accident. Size is the thing you will notice every single time you pick the knife up. Steel is the thing you will notice twice a year when you sharpen it.
| Open length | Rotation | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| 15cm | Very fast, short arc | Pocket carry. Not a learning knife |
| 22cm (this knife) | Quick, still controllable | Smaller hands, tighter spaces, people who found 24cm unwieldy |
| 24cm | The standard. Balanced | Most people, most of the time |
| 29cm | Slow, deliberate, heavy | Traditional size. Presence over speed |
Two centimetres does not read like much. Across a full rotation it changes the timing of every trick you know, which is why people who have flipped a 24cm knife for a year sometimes find this one briefly disorienting and then decide they prefer it.
Who this knife is actually for
Anyone whose hands are on the smaller side, and there are a lot of you. The standard 24cm frame is sized for an average adult male hand and if yours is not that, every rollover has been slightly more work than it needed to be. A shorter handle sits properly in the palm and the knife stops feeling like it is trying to escape.
It also suits anyone who flips in a room with furniture in it, which is most people.
175 grams on a short frame
That is a lot of weight for 22cm and it is deliberate. A short light knife is genuinely difficult, because it rotates fast and gives you almost no time to correct. Putting the weight back in slows the rotation down without adding length, which is the best compromise available on a small frame.
The stainless bolsters keep it at 175g. In brass the same frame would come out heavier and would have gone somewhere less useful.
440C steel on a butterfly knife, briefly
An American high-carbon stainless: about one percent carbon and seventeen percent chromium. That chromium is why it does not rust, and the carbon is why it hardens properly, which 440A and 440B do not. Anyone selling you “440 stainless” without the letter is telling you which one they bought.
Ours run at 58-60 HRC. It sharpens easily on any decent stone, holds an edge perfectly well for normal use, and asks nothing of you in damp weather. For a knife at this price that combination is the right answer.
Carabao horn as a balisong handle
Carabao is the Philippine water buffalo, and its horn is the original balisong handle material. The word itself probably comes from baling sungay, folding horn, which describes the handle and the mechanism in one go.
It is black to charcoal with occasional amber banding, harder and denser than deer horn, and it polishes to a genuine gloss. Keep it out of long direct sunlight and do not store the knife wet, and it will outlast you.
Trainer, sheath and shipping on this 440C butterfly knife
The unsharpened trainer is the same knife, selected above Add to Cart. Same steel, same horn, same 175g, no edge, same price, because grinding an edge is one operation in a build with many.
A fitted leather sheath comes with it, cut for this frame rather than the standard one. Free US shipping, flat $49 anywhere else for the entire order. Check your local knife law before ordering.
Every knife is checked for lockup, pivot action and edge before it goes in the box. Nothing ships that we would not keep for ourselves.
Processing
Most orders leave the bench in 1 to 3 business days. If the knife you picked is not in stock we forge it for you, which takes roughly 2 to 3 weeks. Engraving adds a little time on top of that.
What shipping costs
- United States: free on every order.
- Everywhere else: a flat 49 dollars for the whole order, however many knives are in it, so two at once ship for the same as one.
How long it takes
- USA: 4 to 8 business days
- International: 8 to 14 business days, longer if customs takes an interest
Those are carrier estimates, not promises we can enforce.
Tracking
A tracking number reaches you by email as soon as the parcel is collected. Carriers often take 24 to 48 hours to start showing movement, so a quiet first day is normal.
Customs and local law
Import duty, VAT and customs fees are set by your own country and are yours to pay. Balisong law varies by country and by US state, so it is worth checking yours before you order.
The full detail lives on Order and Shipping and Return or Exchange.
Hand-forged in the Batangas tradition
The balisong was born in Batangas, Philippines. Every knife in this catalogue is made by Filipino artisans and metalworkers, many from families with generations of experience, now working in the United States. Blades are ground from 440C stainless, D2 tool steel, VG10, high carbon and Damascus, and fitted to handles of kamagong ebony, carabao horn, Philippine deer horn and bone.
Checked four times
Detailed hand inspection, smoothness and pivot testing, blade alignment checks, and durability and finish quality control. If a knife doesn't meet our standards, it never reaches our customers.
Engraving available
Initials or short text $19 in the font you choose, a custom logo $29. Select it above Add to Cart and upload the logo file at checkout.
A sheath with every knife
Every knife includes a fitted leather sheath. Both live blades and trainers are offered, and every order ships worldwide with tracking.
Buying more than one?
Trade pricing starts at ten pieces and reaches 45% under retail at volume, with your logo on the bolster. See wholesale and bulk, or design one from scratch.
Owner reviews
What owners say
53 reviews for Argentine Ant 440c Original Filipino Balisong butterfly Knife BF-02
Shipping and returns
Processing
Most orders ship in 1 to 3 business days.
USA delivery
4 to 8 business days, tracked door to door.
International
8 to 14 business days. Customs times vary by country.
Made to order
Out of stock pieces are handcrafted for you in 2 to 3 weeks.
We ship worldwide. The customer is responsible for customs, VAT and local legality.
Returns and exchanges Read the warranty
Emily R. (verified owner) –
“I’ve collected knives for years, and the ones from Balisong Butterfly are truly something special. Each piece feels like a work of art, and they’re incredibly functional too.”
Sophia G. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a testament to the magic of craftsmanship. The way they flip, the design, and the quality materials make them a true work of art.”
Jackson P. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like a journey into precision. The flipping motion, the natural handle, and the meticulous craftsmanship create an experience beyond words.”
Emily B. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like entering a world of skill and elegance. The balance, the design, and the flipping action make them a must-have for collectors.”
Liam D. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are more than just tools; they’re an embodiment of passion. The craftsmanship, the flipping action, and the unique design make them exceptional.”
Ava M. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is like a symphony of precision. The way it moves, the natural handle, and the overall quality make it a true masterpiece.”
Noah R. (verified owner) –
“As a knife enthusiast, I appreciate the fine balance between form and function. Balisong Butterfly’s knives capture that balance with their design and flipping action.”
Mia C. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like wielding a piece of art. The flipping motion, the craftsmanship, and the choice of materials make it a true work of creativity.”
Oliver H. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I received from balisongbutterfly.com is a testament to quality. The way it moves, the balance, and the overall craftsmanship are remarkable.”
Chloe G. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like engaging in a dance of precision and control. The design, the flipping action, and the craftsmanship make them a true standout.”
Max R (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are more than just knives; they’re symbols of craftsmanship. The flipping motion, the natural handle, and the attention to detail are impressive.”
Sophia C. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is more than just a possession; it’s a tribute to mastery. The way it moves, the design, and the overall quality make it exceptional.”
Jackson L (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like stepping into a world of art. The precision, the balance, and the natural handle create an experience that’s both engaging and beautiful.
Emily H. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a celebration of dedication. The way they flip, the design, and the quality materials are a testament to their craftsmanship.”
Liam G. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like wielding a piece of history. The flipping motion, the design, and the attention to detail all contribute to an extraordinary experience.”
Ava T. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is not just a tool; it’s an expression of artistry. The craftsmanship, the flipping action, and the overall quality make it exceptional.”
Noah S. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a fusion of tradition and innovation. The way they flip, the natural handle, and the meticulous design make them a true standout.”
Mia R. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like entering a world of precision. The balance, the craftsmanship, and the unique design make it an experience of skill and art.”
Oliver K. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I received is more than just a possession; it’s a connection to craftsmanship. The flipping motion, the design, and the quality are exceptional.”
Chloe S. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are not just tools; they’re an expression of dedication. The flipping action, the natural handle, and the overall quality make them remarkable.”
Max M. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like embracing an art form. The way it moves, the balance, and the craftsmanship create an experience that’s truly captivating.”
Olivia W. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a perfect blend of form and function. The flipping action, the design, and the craftsmanship make them stand out.”
Ethan P. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like experiencing a work of art. The balance, the natural handle, and the meticulous craftsmanship create an unmatched experience.”
Sophia D. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like mastering a dance of precision. The design, the flipping motion, and the quality materials make them a true delight.”
Jackson B. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are more than just tools; they’re an embodiment of dedication. The craftsmanship, the flipping action, and the unique design are impressive.”
Emily M. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is like holding a masterpiece. The way it moves, the natural handle, and the overall quality make it an exquisite piece.”
Liam T. (verified owner) –
“As a knife enthusiast, I’m captivated by Balisong Butterfly’s knives. The precision, the flipping action, and the design make them a true standout.”
Ava R. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like entering a world of skill. The balance, the craftsmanship, and the unique design create an unforgettable experience.”
Noah G. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I received is a tribute to quality. The flipping motion, the natural handle, and the overall craftsmanship are remarkable.”
Mia C. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like engaging in a dance of precision. The design, the flipping action, and the choice of materials make them extraordinary.”
Oliver H. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are more than just knives; they’re symbols of craftsmanship. The flipping motion, the natural handle, and the attention to detail are remarkable.”
Chloe G. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is a testament to mastery. The way it moves, the design, and the overall quality make it a treasure.”
Max R. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like embracing an art form. The balance, the craftsmanship, and the unique design create an experience that’s truly captivating.”
Sophia C. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a fusion of tradition and innovation. The way they flip, the natural handle, and the meticulous design make them a true standout.”
Jackson L. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like stepping into a world of art. The precision, the balance, and the natural handle create an experience that’s both engaging and beautiful.”
Emily H. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I received is more than just a possession; it’s a tribute to craftsmanship. The flipping motion, the design, and the quality are exceptional.”
Liam G. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are a celebration of dedication. The way they flip, the design, and the quality materials are a testament to their craftsmanship.”
Ava T. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like wielding a piece of history. The flipping motion, the design, and the attention to detail all contribute to an extraordinary experience.”
Noah S. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I got is more than just a tool; it’s an expression of artistry. The craftsmanship, the flipping action, and the overall quality make it exceptional.”
Mia R. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like entering a world of precision. The balance, the craftsmanship, and the unique design make it an experience of skill and art.”
Oliver K (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are not just tools; they’re an expression of dedication. The flipping action, the natural handle, and the overall quality make them remarkable.”
Ethan D. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives redefine what a knife can be. The balance, the design, and the flipping action make them a true work of art.”
Olivia P. (verified owner) –
“Using my Balisong knife is like experiencing a form of meditation. The precision, the natural handle, and the craftsmanship create a calming and captivating ritual.”
Liam M. (verified owner) –
“Flipping a Balisong knife is like engaging in a dance of skill and elegance. The way it moves, the design, and the materials make it a true masterpiece.”
Ava S. (verified owner) –
“Balisong Butterfly’s knives are more than just tools; they’re an expression of creativity. The flipping action, the craftsmanship, and the choice of materials are remarkable.”
Noah T. (verified owner) –
“The Balisong knife I received is not just a possession; it’s a connection to craftsmanship. The design, the flipping motion, and the quality make it exceptional.
Christine Reyes –
Photos don’t do this knife justice at all. Highly recommend this one to any flipper.
Christine Reyes –
Photos don’t do this knife justice at all. Highly recommend this one to any flipper.
Mark Wright –
Awesome craftsmanship on this one. Handles have a great grip even during fast flips. Pivots feel dialed in with zero blade play. Action is smooth right out of the box, no break in needed. Zero complaints from me on this purchase.
Emily Baker –
Wasn’t sure what to expect but this one nailed it. Pivots feel dialed in with zero blade play. Happy customer here, through and through.