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

Ed Friedman The Armed Citizen F
Ed Friedman The Armed Citizen F

American Rifleman’s Editor Explains How This Historic Title is Staying Relevant

As the new editor in chief of American Rifleman—and former editor in chief of Shooting Illustrated—Ed Friedman has the critical and challenging task of bringing this storied title into the digital age.

Colt Gets $40 Million Contract for M4/M4A1 Carbines

Colt’s Manufacturing has been awarded a $40,863,564 firm-fixed-price contract with U.S. Army Contracting Command to produce M4/M4A1 carbines for sale to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iraq, Macedonia and Tunisia.

The Stenzel Industries SAK-21: A Uniquely American AK

More than an American-made AK, Stenzel Industries calls the SAK-21 “a modular, purpose-built firearm, developed to meet the demands of special operations forces and professional shooters.”

Review: Browning Citori 825 Field

For hunting and sporting use, Browning’s latest Citori 825 Field shotgun is more than up to the task.

The Armed Citizen® April 27, 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.

Growth in Youth Shooting Sports Signals Bright Future for the 2nd Amendment

Judging by the record number joining clubs and teams, mass-media’s disinformation and political rhetoric are losing their luster with today’s youth, who are making time to head to the range.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.