...at least he likes knives...wait a minute, is something that size legal in Kali? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />
California as a state has really decent knife laws. No limit on blade length for folders or fixed blade knives. Fixed blade knives MUST be worn on the belt unconcealed, but there is no length limit. The is an older man here in town that goes for his evening walk with a katana. Sheeple call the cops on him all the time, but there is nothing they can do unless he brandishes it. Any length folder can be concealed or open carry.
Local ordinances can and do apply, but as a state the laws are not bad for knife owners.
Really, that surprises me considering the gun laws. Can you carry automatic and ballisongs?
Autos and balis are banned as switchblades. If IIRC you can have switchblades if they have a 2" blade and are made in CA. Assisted opening knives are OK.
Relevant codes.
Penal Code section 653k prohibits the sale or possession in public or in a vehicle of switchblade knives with a blade two or more inches in length, whether or not it is concealed. Penal Code section 12020 prohibits carrying a concealed dirk or dagger on your person, in public or private, no matter what length. Under California law, almost any pointy thing, including steak knives and knitting needles, can be a dirk or dagger. (People v. Rubalcava (2000) 23 Cal.4th 322.)
Beyond these general prohibitions, it is illegal to possess a knife with a fixed blade (or one which can be fixed) of over four inches in any state or local public building without written permission or at any meeting required to be open to the public. (Penal Code section 171b.) A knife with a fixed or fixable blade in excess of four inches is illegal to possess in the "sterile area" of an airport. (Penal Code section 171.5--good luck getting it past security in the first place.)
It is generally unlawful to have a dirk or dagger on a school ground (including colleges), as well as fixed blade knives (which would appear to be dirks or daggers anyway), and any knife with a blade over 2.5 inches. (Penal Code section 626.10.) Note that while it may not be illegal, possession of ANY knife on a school ground may be a basis for expulsion from school. (Education Code section 48915.)
Caveat: This deals only with STATE law. There may be additional local ordinances governing knife possession.
