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

couple in dark alley
couple in dark alley

Criminal Clues: Tips to Avoid Appearing Like a Soft Target

You don’t have to be the hardest target, but you don’t want to be the softest. Here are some tips on how to avoid becoming a target for a criminal looking for his or her next opportunity.

Beretta A400 Solo: For the One-Gun Hunter

The new Beretta A400 Solo is designed as a no-nonsense hunting shotgun that is an entry point to the company’s premium semi-auto shotgun family.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 10, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Review: FK Brno PSD-C

Manufacturers have achieved excellent results with small-caliber bottleneck designs, as evidenced by cartridges such as the .357 SIG and 5.7x28 mm. The .30-caliber 7.5 FK continues this legacy and is now chambered in the FK Brno PSD-C.

Firearm Industry Celebrates America's 250th With More Commemorative Options

For the entirety of 2026, we're celebrating America's 250th anniversary, and the firearm industry continues to roll out commemorative products to mark the occasion.

Maxed Out: Derya's New MAX Shotgun

The Derya Arms MAX is a new semi-auto shotgun designed for serious competitive shooters that is made entirely in the USA.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.