Pantographic knife
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A Pantographic knife, also known as a paratrooper knife, is a folding knife whose blade is fully enclosed by its handles when closed, in a manner similar to a balisong knife (commonly called a butterfly knife in western countries) - with which it is often confused. Unlike the balisong knife, the pantographic knife uses a pantograph linkage to keep the handles aligned during opening and closing (whereas balisong knife handles swing freely and independently).
The pantographic knife is very strong when compared to most other folding knife designs, being joined at several points and along several planes - this increases the force required to break the blade away from the handle.
By enclosing the blade on both sides, double edged blades can be used.
This design of folding knife was used by German parachute troops during World War II. Originals are rare and many replicas circulate.
[edit] External links
- United Cutlery manufacturers of Pantographic knives (called the Paratrooper range)
- Picture of a Pantographic knife open and part-open
