under that definitions the schrade does not qualify as an automatic knife. There was actually some type of bill passed that defines assisted opening knives and make sure they dont get lumped into switchblade laws. The schrade does not operate "automatically". This would indicate that the blade as at a fully closed at rest position of which it is fired by an internal spring or similar device. The key word here is automatically. The schrade needs to be opened manually for a short distance then the assisted mechanism takes over and ensures the blade locks up. Hence the term assisted. If the blade did not require manual manipulation at all then it would be "automatic" and there would be issues. Some dealers and states as well as local government have erred on the side of caution and unwittingly lumped them in with automatics. Now even with with these knives technically being legal you can still get arrested for them. Its not a police officers job to interpret the laws. Only to enforce them. If he feels you may he has probable cause to assume you have broken the law you can still get arrested. Then its up to you to prove you werent breaking the law. Either way these knives can be more trouble than they are worth. And you dont want to argue with a police officer that your knife is legal.
