questions about the law on carrying a pocket knife

[kpinoy]

I was talking to some friends and I always what is the law as far as carrying a knife. I have people tell me their interpretation of the "law" but seems like I am getting contradicting stories. I wanted to ask an LE directly so I know what I cant purchase and make sure I do not break the law more specific, laws in california.

all I know that it has to be exposed or the clip of the pocket knife is exposed. Is this correct? what is the size limit? what is the law on hunting knife? (I heard it is illegal to have in your waist even when you are camping?)

any insight would be trully apreciated.


thanks

[Librarian]

There are different limitations primarily based on where you are.

Schools at various levels are covered at the state level. And there are some different restrictions based on what county or city you may be in.

See the 'knife laws' link in my .sig.

[kpinoy]

Thanks. That is a lot of info & somewhat confusing hehe. Well from what I got, i can carry a folder if its 2inches or less. Fixed blade depends on the county?

Thank you again

[Quiet]

Fixed blade depends on the county?

Keep in mind that you can not legally conceal carry a fixed blade [PC 12020(a)(4)], must be open carried in a sheath [PC 12020(d)].
Blade length depends on which county/city you are in.

[kpinoy]

Keep in mind that you can not legally conceal carry a fixed blade [PC 12020(a)(4)], must be open carried in a sheath [PC 12020(d)].
Blade length depends on which county/city you are in.

Thanks. The only time I would carry a fixed blade is if I am camping and I would not conceal it. Now I just gotta confirm with the laws in that county

[MaHoTex]

Edit: Almost forgot -- I am not a LEO.

The knife laws are so confusing.

I have a 4 or 5 inch folding Buck (that locks into position) that I have been carrying for over 20 years either on my person or in my utility compartment of my vehicle. Reading the sticky makes me wonder if it is illegal.

"A NON-LOCKING FOLDING KNIFE, or a closed FOLDING KNIFE, any length, is not a ‘dirk or dagger’ – PC 12020(c)(24)"

Does that imply that a LOCKING FOLDING KNIFE may be considered a dirk or dagger?

[Ron-Solo]

The knife laws are so confusing.



Does that implay that a LOCKING FOLDING KNIFE may be considered a dirk or dagger?

Depends on the circumstances.

Also, watch out for county ordinances and city municipal codes.

[Librarian]

Does that imply that a LOCKING FOLDING KNIFE may be considered a dirk or dagger?

No, it's usually a locking folder that is OPEN that might be considered a 'dirk or dagger'. Closed, generally no problem.

[erik_26]

Not trying to thread jack....

What would be considered a safe fixed-blade length that would be legal all over the whole state?

If I had a nice 4"-5" fixed-blade and carried it in a sheath, would I generally be good to go? Or could there be some issues in certain parts of the state?

[Samuelx]

This topic has come up at least a few times during the time I've been registered here - does the search function show those other threads?

Like Ron said and I've said before - you gotta also check your local statutes/codes - e.g. an open carry fixed blade may be ok per CA penal code but might not comply with LA County code (no open carry of any knife/dagger with 3" or more blade)...

[NuGunner]

Only when it's concealed on your person and in a matter in which it is ready to use.

EX) locking folding knife in open position concealed in your pocket.