What knives are legal in Alabama?
There is often a fair amount of confusion when it comes to Alabama knife laws, with people making incorrect assumptions both about what is legal and what is illegal. It’s important to note that the laws do differ from one state to the next. Below are a few types of knives that are legal to use in Alabama:
Legal Knives in Alabama
- A balisong, also known as a butterfly knife, is legal to own.
- Knives with automatic or assisted opening systems are legal, despite the common misconceptions about them. This includes gravity knives and switchblades.
- It is also legal to have a toothpick knife, a stiletto, or a dirk.
- You can legally own and carry all types of folding knives, which are some of the most popular and common knives in the state.
- You can’t conceal a Bowie knife, but you can legally carry it in the open. For example, you can wear it on your belt, outside of your shirt.
- If you’re still on land that you own, you can carry a Bowie knife any way you want, and you can conceal it.
- No matter how long they are, you can own double-sided knives.
- As a general rule, you can carry any knife that fits in a pocket.
- You can legally own an “out the front” knife.
Not only is it good to know how these laws work if you’re carrying a knife as a work tool or for your own protection, but it’s also wise to know what you can carry—and how to carry it—when hunting. If you’re facing charges for the way you carried a knife, be sure you know your legal options.
If you or a loved one has been arrested and is facing jail time, contact the experienced Alabama criminal defense attorneys at Smith & Mcghee. We can be reached at (334) 702-1744 or by using our website contact form.
Source: KnifeUp, “Alabama Knife Laws,” accessed May 05, 2016
