New York has strict knife laws that regulate the possession, sale, and use of various types of knives. These laws are codified under New York Penal Law 265.01(1) and aim to ensure public safety and prevent the use of knives in illegal activities.
Legality of Knives
- Illegal Knives Certain knives are illegal to own or carry in New York, including switchblades, ballistic knives, metal knuckle knives, plastic knuckles, cane swords, machetes, and razors. Manufacturing switchblade knives, pistol ballistic knives, metal knuckles, undetectable knives, and Kung Fu Star knives is also illegal.
- Legal Considerations The legality of owning and carrying a knife in New York depends on its type and intended use. While gravity knives were legalized as of May 30, 2019, assisted opening knives remain illegal.
- Blade Length In New York City, carrying a knife with a blade longer than four inches is prohibited.
Restrictions and Regulations
- Open and Concealed Carry New York law prohibits carrying a knife that can be seen publicly. Even if the blade isn’t exposed, no portion of the knife can be visible. Concealed carry of blades with a length of four inches or more is also prohibited. Open carry is somewhat ambiguous and depends on the carrier’s intent. Carrying a knife openly with the intent to use it unlawfully against another is prohibited.
- Intent Carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully can have serious legal consequences. Possessing a knife with a blade length of four inches or more in public places is prohibited, regardless of any unlawful intent, and is punishable by a fine or jail time.
- Age and Criminal Record Restrictions are imposed on knife possession based on age and criminal record. Individuals must be at least 18 years of age and possess no criminal record to legally possess a knife.
Local Regulations
- Local governments in New York can enforce their own knife laws, which may impose additional restrictions in addition to state laws. For example, Buffalo prohibits the open carrying of any knife on city-owned property.
Penalties
- Violating New York knife laws can result in serious legal implications and penalties. Carrying any blade “for one’s protection” is considered an unlawful purpose and can result in arrest. Possessing a knife with a blade size of four inches or more in public can lead to a fine or jail time. Manufacturing, transporting, and selling illegal knives can result in a misdemeanor or a felony if the seller has a prior criminal record.
Sources:
- https://edc.ninja/new-york-knife-laws/
- https://www.vitalianolaw.com/blog/new-york-knife-laws/
- https://wiciklaw.com/what-are-the-knife-laws-in-new-york-all-you-need-to-know/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-york-knife-laws/
