I just graduated from my college, and there was never any mention about knives being illegal. In fact, a lot of people do carry knives, from Enduras to SAKs. I carry a small Ascent, and the local cops said that'd be okay. As for the oringinal person posting this, you should be glad you don't have a daughter in school. My little sister's going to school in New York, and I've ben trying to get her into self-defense. As for when self-defense turns into unnecessary and excessive force, if you're a martial artist and you kick someone's ass into submission (even if they're bigger and armed!) you could get busted for that. If you cut and run, make sure no one sees you! If you get made, you're screwed. On the other hand, if three guys gang up on you and kill one of them, or maim one of them, that's okay. Personally, I just walk away, and if people talk smack and want to start something, I'll consider it if I can't get away from them. Again, to the original person posting this, why not encourage your son to get into martial arts if he isn't already? I've practiced several styles, and have found American Kenpo, Jeet Kune Do, Aikido (I know, it sounds dumb, but some of their stuff really works!), Jujutsu (Brazillian and Japanese), Muay Thai, and Kali and escrima. Personally, the Muay Thai, JKD, and escrima knife/stick training is the best. Moreover, the knife and stick training translates directly into empty hand techniques, so, armed or not, your son WILL be a bad ass. Of course, when the mugger's got a gun...knock on wood for that. Maybe Titan will agree with me on the efficiency of martial arts. My knife really is the last ditch thing, the first option is always run. Your ego will heal, your punctured lung may not. I agree though, it IS a pain in the ass that your son can't even carry his Gerber around.