Balisongs in NY

[maximillian]

Hey guys, just to start, I am not really interested in carrying a balisong, since I love my current carry, my ZT 0561.

Now, with that being said, I would like to own and learn how to use balisongs. Is it legal to simply OWN balisongs in NY?

Like I said, I am not interested in carrying one, so that is where the legalities of the situation are a little different. I see thread after thread about carrying them in NY, but very rarely is it mentioned whether or not I can simply purchase them.

I thank you all in advance, and I welcome any suggestions for which one to purchase if I can!

 

[tom19176]

This is never a clear question to respond too. The butterfly knife has been deemed to be a NON gravity knife since it does not lock automatically when flicked open, and there is well established case law showing several cases that have found that to be the case. The issue then becomes is it a "dangerous knife" as it has been viewed as weapon by design. I would never recommend carrying one as I think most officers would follow the dangerous knife view of a butterfly knife. The word possession in NYS law means anywhere you have control over the item, so in your house is included, however the dangerous knife charge is worded to say possession by any person, which normally limits it to being on you and not the more simple possession. This is my knowledge of the law and I can only advise against owning or carrying one, but consult a lawyer for the best advise.

Here is a link to the NYS law which is pretty much accurate. Read the case law at the bottom. Always remember your rights too as in if the knife is in your home and not in plain view when an officer is in your house ( you call for EMS they come too), then they need a warrant to search....

http://knife-expert.com/ny.txt

 

[ricky b]

laws are always subject to change. you can own them but if you are charged with using it as a weapon there is a possibility the law will consider it assault with a DEADLY weapon. the truth is the balisong was invented by the French as a folding straight razor for shaving but balisongs were carried by gang members a lot in the 80s and 90s and therefore was made illegal in most states.

 

[vic2367]

laws are always subject to change. you can own them but if you are charged with using it as a weapon there is a possibility the law will consider it assault with a DEADLY weapon. the truth is the balisong was invented by the French as a folding straight razor for shaving but balisongs were carried by gang members a lot in the 80s and 90s and therefore was made illegal in most states.

correct,,being in NY i wouldnt even bother with the bali. you can buy one , but then whats the use ? if you cant carry it or use it .