Yes, Butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in Peru for possession and use, provided they are not classified as prohibited weapons under Peruvian law. The Reglamento de Armas (Supreme Decree No. 006-2017-IN) does not explicitly ban balisongs, but their sale, import, or carrying in public may require authorization from the Ministerio del Interior or Policía Nacional del Perú. Recent 2026 amendments to the Ley de Control de Armas have tightened scrutiny on folding knives with concealed blades, though balisongs with visible blades remain permissible if not used for aggression.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Peru
- Classification under the Reglamento de Armas: Balisongs are not listed as prohibited weapons but may fall under “weapons of restricted use” if blades exceed 12 cm or exhibit automatic opening mechanisms. The Ministerio del Interior reserves the right to reclassify them based on blade design.
- Authorization for Carriage: Public carry requires a Licencia de Porte de Arma (carrying permit), issued only for “justified necessity” (e.g., professional use). Unauthorized carrying in urban areas risks confiscation under Decreto Legislativo No. 1186.
- Import and Commerce: Importers must obtain permits from SUNAT and the Dirección General de Control de Servicios de Seguridad, Control de Armas y Municiones. Retailers must register balisongs as “non-prohibited tools” to avoid penalties under Ley No. 30293 (2015).