Balisong Law

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NaTeDoGG

Joined
Jun 30, 2000
Messages
369
I want to know what the law is regarding balis in Seattle, WA. I've found this... I'm not sure if it includes balis or not. It says gravity knife... twice on this page some guy says that balisongs aren't gravity knives. It says "any knife having a blade which opens, or falls, or is ejected into position by the force of gravity, or by an outward, downward, or centrifugal thrust or movement". I can open my pocket knife at a flick of my wrist.

I also found this which is quite interesting. It states that balisongs are not considered automatic knives. Here is a nice essay about oppressive knife laws (and also where I picked up my new sig).

So it seems kind of hazy... can I legally carry my balisong? What are the consequences of being caught? Because you know damn well I carry it regardless.
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Does anyone have any good links?

[This message has been edited by NaTeDoGG (edited 07-03-2000).]
 
My understanding is that knife laws are and were written in muttled ways so as to be applied broadly when desired. This leads to unclear wording, and more often then not, the "true law" to be defined not on the books, but in the courts. To this end, yes, bali's are illigal in WA, as are auto's. While not true gravity or inertia knives, they fit that vauge description well enough. Even here in Portland were they are "legal", they are still considered switchblades, and to carry one legaly it must be in a blet sheath on your belt. As it is a gross mis., I assume you would only face confiscation and a fine, unless someone decided to stack charges. Its a tricky game we play. A fellow forumite from Portland recently had his confiscated for carrying it in his pocket. Have fun, and try not to be to NaTe when in public
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Hey Chuck, trying to find the thread now, but this is a big place, and I'm not sure were I saw the post. I'll get back to you. If I remember, there may have been more involved. I'll keep looking.
 
last time I talked to a knowledgeable knife dealer said that only arizona can carry sutomatics, and anothe state, and they are cracking down on Oregon.. but oh well I am not to woried about it.. I do however try not to bring mine to courthouses or when I know that I migt go drining in some frat party or something where dangerous 'predicaments' might occur.

I am rather curious though on the blade limit for fixed blades in Pittsburgh..

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<A HREF="http://www.contrib.andrew.cmu.edu/~soo/balisong/balisong.html" TARGET=_blank>http://www.contrib.andrew.cmu.edu/~soo/balisong/balisong.html
</A> If you play with love you will be heartbroken; if you play with knives you will [bleed]


 
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