What is the role of the butterfly knife in self defense?

[CDR_Glock]

Mr. Emerson

I commend you on your workmanship of your knives. They are truly works of art and a highly functional as defensive weapons, as well as utility "tools". What, in your opinion, is the role of the Butterfly Knife (i.e. Balisong) for self defense? Do you personally have experience using them? Do you have plans to craft a line of Emerson Butterfly knives?

Thank you.

[Ernest Emerson]

Dear CDR Glock,

Butterfly knives are great, lots of fun and definitely impressive in the right hands. However as a weapon, there are much better deployment methods. I trained for several years in their use at the original Filipino Kali Academy in Torrance with Dan Inosanto and Richard Bustillo in the 1970's.

I may make some - sometime.

Best Regards,

Ernest R. Emerson

[CDR_Glock]

I would love to have an Emerson Balisong!!!!

[CDR_Glock]

Will you let me know when you release one? I'm in.