When it comes to knives, there are plenty of legal ones and a lot that are illegal. You need to be familiar with your state’s knife laws if you plan on carrying one.
In California, for example, pocket knives are generally legal to carry except on federal buildings. Depending on the type of knife, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Switchblade
A switchblade is a type of pocket knife that features a blade that extends automatically. These knives are usually shaped like traditional manually-operated folding knives, but they have a spring that opens the blade when a button or lever is pressed.
They are illegal in the U.S., and they are also banned in Canada and the United Kingdom. These laws came about because of media coverage of gang violence and negative publicity about automatic knives being used by juvenile delinquents and gang members.
The laws governing the possession of these knives are at the state level, and they vary greatly. Some states allow carry and concealment of all types of knives, including switchblades, while others have more complex regulations that impact the legality of carrying a specific type of knife.
Balisong
The Balisong, also called a butterfly knife, is one of the most popular pocket knives around the world. However, it is illegal in many areas.
While there is some speculation as to its origins, most believe it was developed by a Filipino in Batangas, Philippines. This is thought to be why many states have banned the sale and use of this particular type of knife.
Balisongs are typically made in two different ways: “channel” and “sandwich.” In the channel constructed style, the main parts of the handle are formed from one piece of material that has a groove in it by folding, milling or being integrally cast. This style is considered stronger than the sandwich style.
Butterly
Butterly’s sculptural works feature strokes of cadmium orange, drips of vermillion red, and swathes of fleshy, craquelure pink that hug soft curves and sharp corners. These awe-inspiring objects affirm the artist’s mastery of coloration and glazing, parsing the balance between uniformity and difference through surprising juxtapositions of texture and linework.
The laws on pocket knives vary from state to state, so it’s important to check local regulations before carrying or using any knife in a public place. Butterfly knives are classified as switchblades in many places, and this means they’re illegal to carry or use in certain states.
Spring-Loaded Knife
A spring-loaded knife is a type of folding knife that is designed to open quickly and easily by using a spring mechanism. This makes them an excellent EDC (Every Day Carry) tool that can help you in a wide range of situations.
In most cases, these knives are legal to own under state law. However, there are some exceptions.
New York law prohibits people under the age of 16 from possessing switchblades, automatic or spring-loaded knives and ballistic knives. This is because they are considered a dangerous weapon under the law.
Throwing Knife
Many people consider throwing knives to be fun, but they may also be dangerous. If you get arrested for a knife offense, it can result in a lengthy prison sentence.
To avoid this, you should know which pocket knives are illegal under state and federal law. Whether you own a stiletto switchblade, automatic blade, dirk, or bowie knife, you might be violating the law.
The main reason for this is that these types of knives are often deemed as weapons of mass destruction. This means that they cannot be carried in public spaces. These include restaurants, schools, hotels, and stores.