Sorry, this is somewhat off topic and perhaps I should have started a separate thread, but I'm interested to know one's legal obligations for carrying a knife in defense. I think there are too many people totally unknowledgeable about their obligations as a responsible citizen when carrying a potentially deadly weapon, and -- worse -- like a speeding driver they seem oblivious to the consequences that could derive from using it.
As some forumites know, I was involved in a confrontation during the summer where I had to draw my knife on some low-life punk strung out on something. Luckilly, I never had to use it. I merely scared him off by brandishing it in defense.
After my post, the wannabe Dirty Harrys, and guys who have read one too many Fred Perrin articles, and Soldier of Fortune magazines (think Dale from "King of the Hill") started in with their dubious opinions like, "Big mistake FTC. You should keep your knife hidden until you enemy is in range to strike." (I'm paraphrasing of course).
I thought to myself: that's all fine and good when you're watching Paul Vunak "defanging the snake" in a Jeet Kune Do video. But it's different when your next step may result in seriously injuring or killing another human being just because he's acting a bit stupid and you are anxious to try out those "Green Beret karate tricks" you learned from a weekend knife fighting seminar.
Not only do you have to live with your consequences ethically, but you'll be dealing with the law who will see YOU as the aggressor using a concealed weapon. In other words, I'm not risking landing my ass in jail just for one moment of self-imposed justice.
I know others may have a point of view different from mine, and I respect that, but if I can't state it eloquently enough, I found an article from a fellow who pretty much sums it up for me.
http://www.kc3.com/self_defense/continuum.htm
Therefore, I would like to hear from members from the forum with real law, and law enforcement knowledge on what the real obligations of carrying and using a concealed blade in defense.
Thanks,
FTC