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

001 BM2XI W Cover 01
001 BM2XI W Cover 01

Review: Bersa M2XI Pistol

The M2XI represents a new area for Argentinian firearm manufacturer Bersa, and this budget 2011 shoots above its price point.

Great American Outdoor Show Opens Feb. 7

America's largest gathering of outdoor enthusiasts opens Feb. 7 and runs through Feb. 15.

New for 2026: CCI Blazer Brass Clean-Fire Ammunition

With the huge boom in suppressor sales, CCI has ammo designed for suppressed firearms.

I Have This Old Gun: Remington Model 1888

Following Remington's bankruptcy in 1888, a number of the company's unsold Model 1875s were discovered, and it was decided that something could be made from them.

Rifleman Review: Ruger RXM

In 2025, Ruger teamed up with Magpul to create the RXM pistol, a design that uses a chassis-style receiver anchored inside of a polymer grip frame.

New for 2026: Franklin Armory Prevail Rifle

Franklin Armory introduces the company's first bolt-action rifle, the Prevail.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.