Folder carry in NYC?

S

Slip

Joined
Nov 24, 2000
Messages
41
Hello all-

I am an irish student who will be working in NYC this summer (legally!). I was hoping to carry a Spyderco Endura, but wanted to double check whether this is legal in terms of length etc. I did take a look at some of the knife law summary websites but I found the info on NY a bit ambiguous.

I would appreciate it if anyone can tell me exactly what I can and can not carry. (and does my status as a cultural exchange visa holder put any special limitations on me?)

Thanks a lot,
Rory Quinn,
Dublin / Ireland
 
Hi Rory, according to NYC codes, one can carry a folding knife with a blade up to 4 inches in length. And said blade must be concealed, seems belt pouches are out. Im sure this topic has been covered extensively before,do a search. One thing you need to remember in NYC is that certain public buildings (Courthouses, Federal bldgs, Empire State bldg.) have metal detectors. Also, certain clubs and bars also have metal detectors. Check ahead of time so you can avoid a hassle. Now as for the four inch blade length rule, not every law enforcement/security officer follows that rule to the letter. Theres the ole four-fingered measuring, which in quite a few cases seems to fall short about a half inch. Also, serrations on the blade might raise objections. Im not aware of any exclusions for non-citizens or non-residents as far as knife carry laws are concerned. Were I in your position, Id also bring a 3 inch Spydie along, say a Delica, Native, or Calypso Jr. The small one can either keep the Endura company or be used for a more discreet and acceptable alternative. And finally, consider also toting a SAK along for the trip. If you plan to go to places that have the metal detectors, and truly want to carry a sharp edge on you, an SAK rarely raises any questions. There is always the chance it might be confiscated, but youd likely have it returned to you upon exiting the place cause SAKs are fairly common and inexpensive. And even if you dont get it back youre not out much. Enjoy your trip.
 
Thanks- that clears it up...

New York here I come...
smile.gif
 
http://home.netcom.com/~brlevine/sta-law.htm

Slip,
The above site may help you though you may have already found it. Bernard Levine is an expert on knives and knife law. For $5 per question he will answer your knife legality q's. There is also a state by state law summary. His one piece of advice to me is if a cop/officcial stops you and asks you why you have a knife say it is a tool and say no more! Do not ever say anything about self defense.
have a great time in NYC, lived there for a while!
 
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