Knife / weapon laws in San Antonio?

R

Revolvergeek

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Jan 14, 2002
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Hi all,

I am going to San Antonio next month, and although I know that Texas law is pretty relaxed about knives, I was wondering if anyone knew of any local laws that I might need to worry about?

I know that I need to stay under 5.5-6" of blade for carry knives, and no impact weapons. Anything else that I need to know?

Thanks,
Danny
 
As far as I know, the blade must be under 5.5", and no switchblades, bowies, or daggers. I'm not sure about balisongs, or how they define "switchblade," "bowie," or "dagger." Fixed or folded, open or concealed, doesn't matter. That's state law, and I believe that cities in TX are not allowed to pass more restrictive legislation. This is just what I remember reading on these forums and elsewhere, but in now way am I sure that what I've said is exactly right. You probably want to find an official source for reliable information.
 
I find it odd that they don't allow Bowies in San Antonio--where Jim Bowie died.

I had also heard (a rumor, no proof) that they didn't allow handguns in the Alamo itself.

I always thought laws like that are akin to forbidding Slick Willie to watch porn while he's cheating.

I hope the rumors that I have heard are untrue.
 
Ok, I just found the City Attorney's website, and found the city code, and it doesn't seem to make any sense at all:

Sec. 21-17. Certain knives prohibited generally; exceptions; penalty for violation.


(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to intentionally or knowingly carry on or about his person a knife with a blade less than five and one-half (51/2) inches in length, which knife is equipped with a lock mechanism so that upon opening, it becomes a fixed blade knife.


(b) The above prohibition set forth in subsection (a) shall not be applicable to a person carrying such a knife:

(1) In the actual discharge of his duties as a peace officer, a member of the armed forces or national guard, or a guard employed
by a penal institution;

(2) On his own premises or premises under his control;

(3) Traveling;

(4) Engaged in lawful hunting, fishing or other lawful sporting activity; or

(5) Using such a knife in connection with a lawful occupation, during such utilization.

Since state law prohibits knives with a blade over 5.5 inches, if I read this correctly, then NO locking folders are legal in San Antonio??!?!?!?
 
While you're there, make a point of visiting Nagel's...

Nagel's Gun Shop
6201 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78216 210-342-5420

They are right near the airport, and have a stocked selection of several thousand knives...(yes, you read that right, several thousand knives!), as well as nearly that many firearms!

It'll make your visit complete!

Also, there's a gunshow at the airport convention center the 1st Saturday of each month...a nice show, with lots of knives and some Class III firearms stuff... :)

Make a point of spending an hour at the Alamo too, as they have a great selection of Bowies on display. Parking behind the Alamo is either $9 or $3, take your choice...I'd suggest the $3 myself ;)

If you do make it to the Alamo, would you pick me up a cool refrigerator magnet please? I was there last month and forgot.

Thanks bud, have fun!

Mel
 
Mel,

Thanks for the heads up! I will be driving over, but I will be sure to head over towards the airport and check them out.

I am not 110% sure that I will make it to the Alamo, but if I do I will hook you up. :D


Thanks for the input everybody.
 
Most if not all cops wont even bother you, I walked into the courthouse with a spyderco police and they just put it in the tray and gave it back to me when I left. I've been searched during a trafic stop (loooong story)and the officer just held onto it I got it back after all was said and done. The law says 5 1/2 inch fixed blade in plain view or a 3.5 folder. I dont know about the Alamo havent been there since I was 7 and been meaning to go back.
 
Generally you'll find people pretty relaxed about carrying knives in Texas. You'll most likely see all kinds of things clipped on or in sheaths.

As for San Antonio I'd be surprised if POS Bowies (and prob. some decent ones too) weren't fairly plentiful in shops so you could always carry it wrapped in a bag and claim you just bought it if that's something you really feel you need to carry around some way.

As for firearms in the Alamo. I believe that the Alamo is considered either a state or national park area so no, no firearms, permit or not would be allowed in. Any public place run by the state or feds tends to be off limits no matter what state or whether you have a carry permit or not.
 
San Antonio is very laid back, and it is one of my favorite places to go here in TX. Hell, I even got married there on the river walk.
 
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