In Illinois the law actually prohibits a "dangerous knife", which is about as vague and asinine as it gets. What does this mean? It also lists dirks, daggers and automatic knives. A fixed blade is faster to open than an automatic. Are these then dangerous? Who decides what is dangerous or not. I guess the police and then a jury. I choose to have blades from 2" to 10" and use them in a responbile manner, which I hope is also "law-abiding". I think common sense goes a long way. I wouldn't EDC a 6"+ blade unless I was camping, fishing, hunting or had some other "legitimate" use. Still, when the law is so unclear there is always a concern.
I think about this often and the law here really is vague.
I don't carry anything exposed, especially a BM, until after I'm away from people.
What can't be seen can't be judged by those who freak out at the sight of a knife or could possibly mistake the sheath as a sidearm sheath.
Your response to a LEO as to why you are carrying it, will probably have the most impact on what he decides to do or not to do. If he knows you have it and you are within 15" of him, expect to be looking down the barrel of his weapon if he isn't aware of the situation when he arrives.
My standard answers (which are the honest truth), should I ever be questioned during the two activities I do most:
Hiking= practicing bushcraft/survival skills or trail clearing and trail maintanance, fire prep.
Fishing= cleaning fish, making rod holders, cutting bait.
If i'm not doing either, I carry a blade under 3" and it is a tool needed for work and house chores if questioned.
A blade of at least 3" is mentioned but it is attached to "intent" language. The way it is written (vague) could be a good thing.
