Caution: Proper protection (i.e. respirator, eye protection, etc.) should be used while performing this task

When heated, titanium will go through a color change process. This process can be manipulated to heat anodize the handles of titanium handled balisongs such as those in the Benchmade line. The following instructions and photos are courtesy of Slick (a.k.a. "anyone" on BladeForums).

The first step in the heat anodizing process is to disassemble the balisong. In regards to a Benchmade balisong, you will need to have a Torx driver to remove the pivot screws, pins, and latch (and clip as well if applicable). It is recommended that you use a punch to remove the pivot pins (after removing the screws) as they are press fitted into the handles.

The handles were polished using "blue" scotchbrite pads on an angle-head die grinder until all the grind marks were gone. note: If you want the handles to have a polished finish as the final product, this step must be done before the anodizing

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handles disassembled and polished

Clean the parts that you will be anodizing with a solvent (e.g. lacquer thinner) to remove any fingerprints or contaminants that may affect the anodizing process.

In this case, the heat was provided by a butane torch. The thickest parts of the handle were heated first, working towards the thinner areas to get nice vibrant color.

finished product