CUSTOM MAKERS

The price of a custom balisong depends on many factors. You'll have to discuss it with the maker directly. The prices indicated here are really just an approximate range. Please note that by offering these links, I am not endorsing these makers. If you have comments about these or other custom makers, please send them to me.

Perhaps currently most famous among balisong enthusiasts for his ongoing Gemini Project, Internationally known bladesmith Darrel Ralph is currently taking orders for custom balisongs beyond Gemini. (Prices start at about $500 and the wait is about two years.) Mr. Ralph prefers to work through his dealer, The Edge Equipment.

Mauricio Dobruski is perhaps the most productive custom balisong maker working right now. He's also one of the most in-demand. Dobruski balisongs start at about US$175. Fortunately, the rather favorable exchange rate makes them quite a bargain for US customers. On the other hand, Mr. Dobruski's remarkable quality and remarkable prices have resulted in a considerable waiting list. While many still associate balisong knives with the Philippines, some of today's best are now coming from Brazil. You can see several examples of Mr. Dobruski's outstanding work in the galleries here at The Balisong Collector's Site and you can also read a biography of him.

The Nolen family of Estes Park, Colorado, is best known for fixed-blade hunting knives. But, they've also done some wonderful art knives and also some balisongs in both categories. Nolen balisongs must be custom-ordered (prices start around $400.)

Bruce Evans of Booneville,Ms is an experienced knife maker and interested in making balisongs. ($150+ range). Mr. Evans is especially known for his hand-forged damascus.

Gary Graley is am excellent leathersmith who has developed a minor specialization in sheaths for Benchmade 42 Bali-Songs. If you're not finding the sheath included with your 42 quite up to your expectations, you might want to contact Mr. Graley. (A hand-made horizontal sheath for a BM42 in fine leather begins at about $50!)

Charles Marlowe of Omaha, Nebraska is rapidly making a name for himself making fine gentleman's folding knives. But, he's recently introduced a new line of balisongs too. Prices start around $350.