Legal Knives To Carry In California

Reading Time: 3 minutes

In the state of California, it is legal to carry certain knives. This article will explain what those knives are and how to carry them.

According to California Penal Code section 653k, it is legal to carry a “dirk” or “dagger” in public. A dirk or dagger is defined as a knife with a blade that is over 2.5 inches in length.

It is also legal to carry a knife that is less than 2.5 inches in length if the blade is locked into the handle. This includes knives that are commonly referred to as “switchblades.”

It is important to note that it is illegal to carry a knife that is concealed on your person. If you are carrying a knife in your pocket, it must be in plain view.

If you are unsure whether or not a particular knife is legal to carry in California, you can contact the local law enforcement agency for clarification.

Table of Contents

What is the legal size knife to carry in California?

According to California Penal Code knife law, a person can carry any type of knife, as long as it is not a ballistic knife, on their person in a public place. There is no specific size requirements for knives in California, as long as the blade is not concealed.

However, there are restrictions on the type of knives that are legal to carry. Some knives, such as switchblades and gravity knives, are illegal to carry in California, regardless of the blade size.

If you are unsure about whether a specific knife is legal to carry in California, it is best to consult with an attorney.

What knives can you open carry in California?

The legality of open carrying knives in California can be a bit confusing. In general, knives with a blade length of less than 2 ½ inches are legal to carry openly. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Knives that are specifically listed in the California Penal Code as being illegal to possess, including switchblades, ballistic knives, and dirks or daggers, are not allowed to be carried openly.

In addition, any knife that is carried in a public place in a way that could reasonably lead someone to believe that the person is carrying a weapon is considered to be illegally carried. This could include carrying a knife in a sheath on your belt, or having it visible in your hand.

If you are unsure about whether or not a particular knife is legal to carry openly in California, it is best to consult with an attorney.

Can you carry a 7 inch knife in California?

Yes, you can carry a 7 inch knife in California. However, there are some restrictions on where you can carry it. You cannot carry it in public schools, on school grounds, or in any government building. You also cannot carry it in a place where alcohol is served, or in any place where knives are prohibited.

Can I carry a Bowie knife in California?

Yes, you can carry a Bowie knife in California. However, there are some restrictions on where you can carry it. You cannot carry a Bowie knife in public schools, in any government building, or in any place where alcohol is served. You can, however, carry it in your home or in a place of business.

Can you use a knife for self defense in California?

In California, you are allowed to use a knife for self defense in certain situations. If you are being attacked, you can use a knife to defend yourself. However, you must use the knife in a reasonable manner. You cannot use the knife to kill or injure the attacker. If you are being threatened or attacked, you can use the knife to defend yourself. However, you cannot use the knife to threaten or attack the other person.

Can I carry a machete in California?

Yes, you can carry a machete in California as long as it is in a closed position and not concealed.

Can you stab someone in self defense in California?

Yes, you can stab someone in self defense in California, but you may be charged with a crime. California law allows you to use deadly force to defend yourself if you reasonably believe that you or someone else is in imminent danger of death or great bodily injury.

Legal Knives To Carry In California4 min read