TN Knife Laws?

[Topgun121]

Is carrying a push dagger less than 4" legal in TN? What about a Karambit? I tried to read the TN law, but the part that was talking about hawkbillls and daggers came in the section of "school grounds". Does anyone here know the exact law on daggers and Karambits if they are less than 4"? thanks

[OhShoot]

If not on school property, apparently you can have ANY kind of knife except for a switchblade, as long as the blade is 4" or less.

switchblade no no: 39-17-1302.
concealed weapons no nos: 39-17-1307

- Oh "not a lawyer, opinion is worth what you paid for it" Shoot

[Fallguy]

I think OS is right, as long as the blade is under 4" and it would not be considered a switchblade, it is legal to carry it.

From 39-17-1301(14)

Switchblade knife means any knife that has a blade which opens automatically by:

(A) Hand pressure applied to a button or other device in the handle; or

(B) Operation of gravity or inertia

[J Smith]

Seems like I remember something about Hawkbills too.
A Balisong is also not considered a switchblade.

[J Smith]

Not sure about schools,I know a student can't.
When I worked for Pepsi I had to go to many schools but I always told them when I checked in at the office that I had a pocket knife and leatherman tool on me.It was never a problem.

[Fallguy]

Seems like I remember something about Hawkbills too.
A Balisong is also not considered a switchblade.

I believe a Balisong or "butterfly" knife would fall under 39-17-1301(14)(B) or at least could if the officer chose to.

As far as schools

39-17-1309(b)(1)

It is an offense for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, with the intent to go armed, any firearm, explosive, explosive weapon, bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, blackjack, knuckles or any other weapon of like kind, not used solely for instructional or school-sanctioned ceremonial purposes, in any public or private school building or bus, on any public or private school campus, grounds, recreation area, athletic field or any other property owned, used or operated by any board of education, school, college or university board of trustees, regents or directors for the administration of any public or private educational institution.

[poak]

What about spring assisted opening knives (Like some Boker and SOGs)? Could they be considered switchblades, or is that yet another gray area?

[EMTRN]

What about spring assisted opening knives (Like some Boker and SOGs)? Could they be considered switchblades, or is that yet another gray area?

Nope, not switchblades.

[2HOW]

Why do they sell switch blades and stilettos at gun shows here if they are illegal.?

[Mike]

What about a fixed blade knife?

Legal to carry?