In Michigan, knife laws are defined by the state penal code, primarily Section 750.226 and Section 750.227. It’s important to understand these laws to avoid legal issues.
Legal Knives
- Michigan generally permits the ownership and possession of various knives, including pocket knives, hunting knives, and utility knives.
Restrictions
- Intent to Harm: It is illegal to carry any knife, regardless of type or blade length, with the intention of using it unlawfully against another person.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of certain knives is restricted.
- You cannot conceal a dagger, dirk, stiletto, or double-edged non-folding stabbing instrument.
- A double-edged, non-folding stabbing instrument is any fixed-blade knife with two cutting edges and a point.
- Concealed carry of any “dangerous weapon” is illegal unless you are in your home, place of business, or on land you own.
- Folding knives with blades under 3 inches can be legally carried concealed without presumption of unlawful intent.
- Blade Length: There is no specific restriction for pocket knives, but context and intent matter. Knives with blades longer than 3 inches may be considered a “dangerous weapon” if carried with intent to harm, making concealed carry illegal.
- Specific Knife Types:
- Possession of automatic knives (switchblades) and gravity knives is legal, but carrying them concealed is prohibited if they are used as a dangerous weapon.
- Double-edged knives, such as daggers and stilettos, may not be carried concealed under any circumstances.
- Carrying in a Vehicle: Carrying a knife in a vehicle is considered concealed carry unless the knife is stored out of reach, such as in the trunk.
Exemptions
- Exemptions exist for peace officers, military personnel, and people using knives for legal business purposes.
- Knives used for legal hunting and fishing are also not subject to restrictions.
Local Laws
- Some Michigan cities and municipalities have their own knife ordinances that may be more restrictive than state laws. For example, Detroit and Lansing have stricter rules regarding knives.
Penalties
- Violating Section 750.226, which prohibits carrying certain knives with unlawful intent, is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison or a fine of up to $2,500.
- Illegally carrying a concealed knife is a felony punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 years and a fine not to exceed $2,500.
Practical Tips
- Know the legal length of knives. In general, knives with a blade longer than 3 inches are subject to restrictions.
- If you need to transport a knife, make sure it is visible and not hidden, especially if you are in a vehicle.
- Non-folding or double-edged knives should be stored in an appropriate sheath and carried in the trunk of the vehicle to avoid accusations of concealed carry.
- Use your knives only for their intended purpose, such as hunting or cooking.
- Understand local restrictions, as some cities may have specific laws that are stricter than state laws.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/michigan-knife-laws/
[2] https://knifeade.com/michigan-knife-law/
[3] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/michigan/
[4] https://blade-city.com/blogs/resources/michigan-knife-laws
