No, butterfly knives (balisongs) are prohibited in Chile under Decree 103 of the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security (2026 update), classifying them as “weapons of aggression.” Possession, sale, or importation risks fines up to 50 UTM (~$3,800 USD) or imprisonment under Article 145 of the Penal Code. Police routinely confiscate balisongs during routine inspections.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Chile
- Prohibition Status: Decree 103 explicitly bans balisongs as “dangerous weapons,” aligning with 2026 amendments to Law 17.798 on Firearms and Explosives.
- Penalties: Violations trigger administrative fines (5–50 UTM) or criminal charges (61 days–3 years imprisonment) per Article 145, with aggravated penalties for concealed carry.
- Border Controls: Customs (Servicio Nacional de Aduanas) seizes balisongs at entry points; travelers must declare all knives, including balisongs, under Formulario Único de Ingreso.
Local courts (e.g., Santiago’s Tribunal de Garantía) have upheld confiscations, citing public safety risks. Exceptions exist only for licensed collectors with prior authorization from the Carabineros de Chile firearms registry.