
Is it legal to carry a switchblade in Oklahoma?
All knives in Oklahoma are legal to own. However, you cannot open or concealed carry dangerous weapons such as Bowie knives, switchblade knives, or daggers, which also applies to weapons in vehicles. Possession of all weapons on school grounds is a felony.
Is it a crime to have a switchblade in California?
A switchblade 1 is a serious and deadly weapon. Possession of one under any circumstances is a criminal violation under Penal Code Section 21510. Below are 8 must know legal facts about how California treats this crime. Are pocket knives legal?
Can a convicted felon own a switchblade in Wisconsin?
Section 941.231 of the Wisconsin Statutes addresses whether convicted felons can possess switchblades. The law indicates: Any person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm under s. 941.29 who goes armed with a concealed knife that is a dangerous weapon is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.
Are switchblades legal in Minnesota?
Switchblades are not legal in Minnesota. All other types of knives are, and it is only legal to carry a knife meant to be a tool or utility piece, not a dangerous weapon. Carrying any knife near a school is illegal. Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Duluth have additional restrictions.

Are switchblades illegal to carry around?
There is no federal restriction on ownership, possession or carrying of a switchblade knife. There are some states that have enacted laws regarding switchblades (see State Laws Regarding Auto-Open Knives). The majority of states allow auto-open knives.
Is a switchblade considered a weapon?
A switchblade1 is a serious and deadly weapon. Possession of one under any circumstances is a criminal violation under Penal Code Section 21510. Below are 8 must know legal facts about how California treats this crime. Are pocket knives legal?
What is a switchblade by law?
A switchblade (which may be known by many other names including a “pushbutton knife” or “ejector knife”) has a blade which is contained within the handle and is opened automatically by a spring by pushing a button or switch on the handle. Switchblades with blades longer than 2” are illegal to carry in California.
What made switchblades illegal?
And so, on August 12, 1958, congress enacted Public Law 85-623, more commonly known as the Federal Switchblade Act. The Act itself dealt with banning certain transportation and sales of automatic knives, as well as outright banning automatic knives in certain areas and places nationally.
How much does a switchblade cost?
AeroVironment SwitchbladeUnit costModel 300: US$6,000 (est.)Produced2011–presentVariantsSwitchblade 300, Switchblade 600, BlackwingSpecifications19 more rows
What is the difference between a switchblade and an automatic knife?
If there is nothing blocking the blade and it stays closed, the knife is an assisted opener (assuming it has a mechanism to help open the knife). Another way to look at it: If you are able to open the blade without exerting any effort on the actual blade, it's a switchblade.
Are butterfly knives illegal?
In California, butterfly knives are prohibited. Under California Penal Code 21510 PC, butterfly knives are classified as a form of switchblade. Carrying, possessing in public, selling, or otherwise transferring a butterfly knife is illegal under this legislation.
Are butterfly knives federally illegal?
Citizens may not carry butterfly knives on federal property, concealed or otherwise, unless that person is a federal agent. The federal switchblade law prevents the use of blades considered switchblades on federal property, and some states consider butterfly knives to be switchblades.
Is 21510 PC a felony?
California Penal Code 21510 PC makes it a crime to carry, possess in public, sell or give away a switchblade. A conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by probation, fines of up to $1000.00, and up to 6 months in county jail.
Is a stiletto knife a switchblade?
Most of these switchblades were side-opening designs, though some employed a telescoping blade. These Italian switchblades were commonly and popularly referred to as stilettos, since most incorporated a long, slender blade tapering to a needle-like point, together with a slim-profile handle and vestigial cross-guard.
Are stiletto switchblades illegal?
Some Knives Can Not be Carried (Open or Concealed): Automatic knives over 1.5 inches are illegal. Switchblades over 1.5 inches are illegal. Stilettos are illegal.
Is a stiletto a knife?
A stiletto is a knife featuring a long, slender blade and a narrow tip, making it perfect as a stabbing tool.
Is it legal to use a switchblade for self-defense?
However, it's important to note that carrying a pocket knife is entirely different from drawing the blade and using it against an aggressor. What is this? While it's entirely legal to carry a pocket knife for self-defense, using it recklessly is illegal, and can lead to serious legal problems.
When did switchblades become illegal?
19581958, Congress enacted the federal Anti-Switchblade Act, which banned interstate sale of switchblades, and outlawed them in federal territories or on federal waters. Because few states had domestic switchblade factories at that time, the federal act made it illegal to purchase switchblades in most states.
Are stiletto switchblades illegal?
Some Knives Can Not be Carried (Open or Concealed): Automatic knives over 1.5 inches are illegal. Switchblades over 1.5 inches are illegal. Stilettos are illegal.
Are switchblades illegal NC?
It is unlawful to possess or carry, openly or concealed, any bowie knife, switchblade, dirk, dagger or other pointed or sharp-edged instrument on school property. It is also unlawful to cause, encourage, or aid any minor to do so.
What is a switchblade knife?
A switchblade is a kind of knife that has a folding or sliding blade that is stowed in the handle. A switchblade is usually spring-loaded and opens automatically when a button or switch on the handle is pressed. Because switchblades can be carried discreetly and deployed quickly, this makes them particularly effective for self-defense. However, some criminals have also used switchblades for nefarious purposes, which is why their legality is so debated. Here is what you need to know about switchblade legality in your state.
What knives are banned in Illinois?
In Illinois, the only generally banned knives are ballistic knives, switchblades, throwing stars, or any button-open assisted knives. However, automatic knives and switchblades can be purchased with a weapons permit. Knives are not permitted in school property, public housing, courthouses, public transport, and any place that serves alcohol or sells entry tickets. Chicago has additional ordinances, prohibiting the sale and use of knives over 2 inches long by anyone under the age of 18.
How long can a knife be in Connecticut?
Blades longer than 4 inches are all illegal for all knives, and switchblades or automatic knives can only be 1.5 inches long.
How long can a knife be in Texas?
All knives are legal in Texas, unless they are longer than 5.5 inches long. Knives of this length are subject to restricted knife locations. These include schools, government buildings, racetracks, airports, correctional facilities, sporting events, or execution sites. Churches, mental hospitals, hospitals, and amusement parks are also restricted. Minors can only carry this size of knife under certain conditions. Any knife smaller than 5.5 inches can be open or concealed carry.
How long can you carry a knife in Georgia?
In Georgia, it is illegal to carry, open or concealed, any knife longer than 5 inches unless you have a permit. Anything longer than a foot requires an HB 292 weapons permit.
How old do you have to be to own a knife in Alaska?
Alaska requires that anyone under 16 years old get parental consent to own one. They have virtually no restrictions on knife size or type. Concealment is only an issue when the police are involved or if you are on somebody else’s property. Knives are not allowed in schools without the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer of the school district.
Is it illegal to carry a switchblade in Louisiana?
Only switchblades are illegal in Louisiana. All other knives are allowed to be carried, either opened or concealed. However, there is an exemption for rescue knives, which switchblades can fall under for suitable parties. Baton Rouge and New Orleans both prohibit the use, sale, and carry of switchblades, and Shreveport prohibits the use or carry of knives in government or city locations.
What are switchblades used for?
Switchblades come in all shapes and sizes and can be used in innumerable ways like for household projects, camping, hunting, and more. When you’re looking to buy you want to be positive you’re looking at the best switchblades for sale.
Can you own a switchblade?
As long as you live in an area where switchblades are legal to own , there is no reason why you cannot take advantage of this useful knife. However, like using a knife, you want to be careful, cautious, and know what you’re doing.
Is it legal to carry a switchblade?
Switchblade carrying laws can vary in a few key ways. You may see that it says it’s legal to carry a switchblade, but it might become illegal if there is proof of unlawful intent.
What is a switchblade?
A switchblade is a type of knife with a folding or sliding blade contained in the handle. The operator of the weapon deploys the blade when he pushes a button or slide. People frequently refer to switchblades as automatic knives. Along with the push of the button, the blade moves out of the handle and can be used.
How much jail time is a class A knife?
A Class A misdemeanor is certainly a significant penalty, subjecting the defendant to a maximum penalty of 9 months in jail, $10,000.00 in fines, or both. Prosecutors generally do not give a benefit of any doubt the individuals with criminal convictions.
Can you be charged with a knife crime?
Certainly the new knife laws didn’t make all crimes involving knives legal. For example, if you stab someone with a knife, it’s likely you’ll be charged with something like substantial battery or 2nd degree recklessly endangering safety . If you face charges for any kind of a crime, our defense lawyers can help you.
Can municipalities control switchblade possession?
Secondly, the law prohibits municipalities and other government organizations from exacting ordinances regulating knives in a manner more-stringent than the state law. That all beings said, those specific governmental organizations can control switchblade possession within the buildings they own, operate, and control.
Who made automatic knives?
The United States led production and distribution of automatic knives for most of the early 20th century. George Schrade began mass-producing the knives throughout the country, but doubled-down with advertising. Schrade marketed the blades to ranchers, outdoorsmen, hunters, and farmers.
Is a concealed weapon a misdemeanor?
Any person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm under s. 941.29 who goes armed with a concealed kn ife that is a dangerous weapon is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.
Can you be charged with disorderly conduct for carrying a knife?
Finally, the law says that a person may not be charged with disorderly conduct for carrying or going armed with a knife. It is legal to conceal or open-carry the knife, unless there are other facts which suggest the individual has malicious or criminal intent.
Why are switchblades used in self defense?
Because switchblades can be carried discreetly and deployed quickly, this makes them particularly effective for self-defense. However, some criminals have also used switchblades for nefarious purposes, which is why their legality is so debated. Here is what you need to know about switchblade legality in your state.
What is a switchblade knife?
A switchblade is a kind of knife that has a folding or sliding blade that is stowed in the handle.
What knives are banned in Illinois?
Illinois. In Illinois, the only generally banned knives are ballistic knives, switchblades, throwing stars, or any button-open assisted knives. However, automatic knives and switchblades can be purchased with a weapons permit.
How old do you have to be to own a knife in Alaska?
Alaska requires that anyone under 16 years old get parental consent to own one. They have virtually no restrictions on knife size or type. Concealment is only an issue when the police are involved or if you are on somebody else’s property. Knives are not allowed in schools without the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer of the school district.
How long can a knife blade be?
All blades longer than 3.5 inches are prohibited, even if concealed. The only exception is for hunting and fishing knives. All schools are weapon-free areas.
Is it illegal to carry a knife in Washington State?
It is illegal to own switchblade knives or any other type of knife that has a spring-loaded blade system in Washington state. Concealed carry of a dangerous weapon is also prohibited. Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Vancouver all have additional ordinances. Knives are prohibited on school grounds.
Can you carry a switchblade in New Mexico?
Only switchblades in balisongs are legal in New Mexico. Knives cannot be carried concealed, and switchblades cannot be bought, sold, manufactured, or transferred. Knives and other deadly weapons are prohibited on public buses and school property.
What is the penalty for carrying a switchblade?
And if you carry a switchblade concealed on your person, you could be charged instead with a violation of Penal Code 21310, which prohibits carrying a concealed “dirk” or “dagger.” 3 If you are convicted of carrying a concealed dirk or dagger, you could face up to 3 years in state prison.
What is the penalty for a switchblade in California?
A conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by probation, fines of up to $1000.00, and up to 6 months in county jail.
What is the California Penal Code for Switchblade?
California Penal Code Section 17235 defines a switchblade as a ... Comparing California & Nevada Lewd Conduct Laws. Updated April 24, 2021 Under Penal Code 21510 PC, California law makes it a crime to carry, possess in public, sell or give away a switchblade.
How long can you be in jail for mailing a switchblade?
imprisonment of not more than five years. In addition, 18 USC 1716 (g) makes it a crime to mail a switchblade or ballistic knife via U.S. mail. Penalties for mailing a switchblade or ballistic knife include: a fine of up to $5,000 or more, and/or.
What is a switch blade knife?
15 USC 1241 (b) – The term “switchblade knife” means any knife having a blade which opens automatically —. (1) by hand pressure applied to a button or other device in the handle of the knife, or.
Where is the switchblade in jeans?
You are caught with a switchblade tucked into the waistband of your jeans. Since the weapon is right next to your body, a prosecutor will most likely be able to prove you knew you had a switchblade on your person. But…
Can a police officer open a knife with a wrist flick?
But just because you… or a police officer or a prosecutor… can open your knife with a wrist flick, that doesn’t automatically qualify the knife as a switchblade. As long as the knife has a working thumb stud or other mechanisms which makes it resistant to being opened, it is not legally a switchblade under California law 16.
What is a sale on a switchblade?
Sale= The legality of merchants and private citizens offering switchblades for sale or selling them. Usually includes any transfer of ownership, even gifts. Note that such laws almost always only affect the seller; no state law affects the buyer of such a transaction.
What is the legal length of a gun blade?
Legal if blade is ≤5" (any length with gun permit)
Can you legally buy a switchblade from another state?
If private ownership is legal, but sale is not, it effectively becomes impossible to legally obtain a switchblade from within that state (since federal law prohibits inter-state sale). One must physically travel to another state to legally purchase.
Is it legal to use a switchblade?
These laws are for non-law enforcement citizens, as nearly all laws contain some sort of exemption for police. In states where unlawful intent must be proven (and is not simply presumed) for the knife to be illegal, this chart counts this as "legal."
Can you carry a switchblade in New York?
New York's state law provides an exception for "Possession of a switchblade or gravity knife for use while hunting, trapping or fishing by a person carrying a valid license." Whether this affects sale or type of carry is unclear.
Why is it illegal to use switchblades in California?
California has outlawed the use of switchblades because they are extremely dangerous, can easily be concealed, and can be opened quickly to launch an attack. As such, California has placed tough laws and penalties for persons who are caught possessing them.
How to convict someone for possessing a switchblade knife?
For the prosecution to convict a person of possessing a switchblade knife, the prosecutor must prove a number of elements beyond a reasonable doubt. If the prosecution fails to prove even one element , it will not be able to convict the defendant of possessing a switchblade knife.
What is the California Penal Code for possession of a switchblade?
Possession of a Switchblade – California Penal Code 21510
Do you have to prove that you have a switchblade knife?
Note:For the prosecutor to convict the defendant of possessing a switchblade knife, the prosecutor is not required to prove that the defendant used or intended to use the knife. For the prosecution to convict a person of possessing a switchblade knife, the prosecution must either prove actual possession or constructive possession over a switchblade knife.
Is a switchblade knife a defendant's knife?
The defendant’s knife was not a switchblade knife – Your attorney may be able to argue that the knife you had in your possession does meet the legal definition of a switchblade. If successful, you cannot be convicted of possession of a switchblade.
Can you be convicted of possessing a switchblade?
So, if you can successfully argue that you did not know that you had the switchblade, you cannot be convicted of possessing it.
Is it a crime to have a switchblade?
Yes, possession of a switchblade is a criminal offense under PC 21510 . A person caught with a switchblade can be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Can Felons Carry Knives?
After researching to assist a family member with finding work, Ron realized that the information he required wasn’t reliable.
State Knife Laws
It is important to make these distinctions between the types of knives because state laws address each of these different kinds with some being legal and others not for all persons, not just for felons.
Supporting Felons in Following the Knife Laws
For families of felons, it is crucial to recognize that your loved one is trying to readjust to society and do the right thing. Be there to encourage and support them in living an honest life and fitting back into society once again.

Are Switchblades Legal in My State?
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Connecticut
Delaware
- Illegal - Knives in Delaware are permitted as long as they don’t fall into certain categories. Knives with pointed tips meant to deter metal detectors, knives with brass knuckles, switchblades, throwing stars, and gravity knives are illegal. Only 3-inch folding or pocket knives can be carried concealed.
District of Columbia
Florida