Knife Rights

posted on June 26, 2013
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg (5)

While I’ll always believe that a handgun is the best concealed option for self-defense (notice I said concealed option), I’ve been taking a look at knife laws because of a recent discussion with Doug Ritter, chairman of Knife Rights.

In my research I’ve found that knife laws can be even more confusing than gun laws in some areas. Some states have laws that limit the type of knife—fixed versus folding—and even the blade length that can be carried. To make matters worse, cities have jumped into the fray by making their own laws that often conflict with state laws.

My discussion with Ritter revealed that I’ve probably broken a few knife laws over the years, but there is no way I’m going to divulge where those transgressions occurred. Suffice it to say that my research showed that I might have skirted the law with a knife in a state where I was legal to have my .45 on my hip. Does that make any sense?

Thankfully, some states are realizing the ignorance of some of their knife laws, and are working to remedy the situation. If you’ve ever looked into the knife laws of your state, post your knowledge to help others. Who knows I might get the opportunity to visit your state, and I’ll want a knife to come along.

Latest

Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard
Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

Review: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

Lipsey’s has teamed up with Smith & Wesson to revive a pair of short-lived, but highly sought after, Night Guard revolvers. The K-frame options include the Model 386, a seven-shot design chambered in .357 Mag.

Standing Guard | We Need to Stand Tall Together

In the short time I have been in this position—humbled and honored to be serving you and our cause—I have focused on streamlining our programs and services, refocusing our efforts on our competitions and other events, and committing resources to the many legal and legislative fights we are in to defend and, where necessary, to win back our Second Amendment-protected freedom.

B&T USA Expands Manufacturing Operations in Utah

B&T USA's Utah location now handles product design and development, 3D-printing, machining, Cerakoting, engraving and shipping, and it boasts a production capacity of 7,000 suppressors a month.

PenFed Reports Strong Second-Quarter Performance

Building on the company's impressive first-quarter results for 2026, PenFed Credit Union, one of the nation's largest credit unions, reported strong financial results through the second quarter of 2026.

The NSCA Sporting Clays National Championship

Every fall, the National Sporting Clays Association holds its national championship at The National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, Texas, and thousands of sporting clays shooters from across the world come to compete for titles.

Rifleman Interview: Smith & Wesson Model 617 Mountain Gun

Smith & Wesson and Lipseys brought a special .22 LR revolver to the Plinkapalooza event in May.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.