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Legal Length in Washington State
- Thread starter UW Mitch
- Start date
Okay, just found out the answer to my own question. Folders-3.5" max, can carry in pocket. Fixxed blade - not allowed at all in Seattle. However, for hunting, camping, or hiking, fixxed blades are allowed if carried in a sheath.
~Mitch
The source for this information was the University of Washington Police Deparment.
[This message has been edited by UW Mitch (edited 01-15-2000).]
~Mitch
The source for this information was the University of Washington Police Deparment.
[This message has been edited by UW Mitch (edited 01-15-2000).]
- Joined
- Mar 26, 1999
- Messages
- 160
The Seattle Police seemed to have given you the law as they would like it. Seattle has a 3 1/2-inch rule but that doesn't apply to the rest of the state. As far as the TK knives and the law column could ever find in the statues, there is no state limit on folding knife blade lenght. There are some gray areas concerning carrying with the intent to go armed.
UWMitch,
Steven is correct. The law in Washington is vague regarding knife laws.
Always check for yourself. The RCW (Reformed Code of Washington) search engine can be found at http://search.leg.wa.gov/pub/textsearch/default.asp?Cmd=Query
RCW 9.41.250 says:
"Dangerous weapons -- Penalty.
Every person who:
(1) Manufactures, sells, or disposes of or possesses any instrument or weapon of the kind usually known as slung shot, sand club, or metal knuckles, or spring blade knife, or any knife the blade of which is automatically released by a spring mechanism or other mechanical device, or any knife having a blade which opens, or falls, or is ejected into position by the force of gravity, or by an outward, downward, or centrifugal thrust or movement;
(2) Furtively carries with intent to conceal any dagger, dirk, pistol, or other dangerous weapon; or
(3) Uses any contrivance or device for suppressing the noise of any firearm,
is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW.
[1994 sp.s. c 7 § 424; 1959 c 143 § 1; 1957 c 93 § 1; 1909 c 249 § 265; 1886 p 81 § 1; Code 1881 § 929; RRS § 2517.]"
RCW 9.94A.125 also mentions knife as it relates to being defined a deadly weapon:
"For purposes of this section, a deadly weapon is an implement or instrument which has the capacity to inflict death and from the manner in which it is used, is likely to produce or may easily and readily produce death. The following instruments are included in the term deadly weapon: Blackjack, sling shot, billy, sand club, sandbag, metal knuckles, any dirk, dagger, pistol, revolver, or any other firearm, any knife having a blade longer than three inches, any razor with an unguarded blade, any metal pipe or bar used or intended to be used as a club, any explosive, and any weapon containing poisonous or injurious gas."
If you search on 'knife' you will get several references. In Washington a knife used in a crime will add the deadly weapon charge if the blade is over 3". No where in the RCW does it define the maximum carry length. And if the Seattle Police gave you the 3.5" figure, you can probably guess that it changes city to city.
I remember you mentioning Kershaw Task's, which I wondered about as the statutes prohibit 'spring mechanisms'. But as the blade on the Task is not released by a button, but by the normal opening motion, it is legal.
Thanks for the piece on the 3.5" in Seattle. I wasn't aware of that. Any info on other cities around the state?
------------------
E. Larson
Edmonds, WA
Steven is correct. The law in Washington is vague regarding knife laws.
Always check for yourself. The RCW (Reformed Code of Washington) search engine can be found at http://search.leg.wa.gov/pub/textsearch/default.asp?Cmd=Query
RCW 9.41.250 says:
"Dangerous weapons -- Penalty.
Every person who:
(1) Manufactures, sells, or disposes of or possesses any instrument or weapon of the kind usually known as slung shot, sand club, or metal knuckles, or spring blade knife, or any knife the blade of which is automatically released by a spring mechanism or other mechanical device, or any knife having a blade which opens, or falls, or is ejected into position by the force of gravity, or by an outward, downward, or centrifugal thrust or movement;
(2) Furtively carries with intent to conceal any dagger, dirk, pistol, or other dangerous weapon; or
(3) Uses any contrivance or device for suppressing the noise of any firearm,
is guilty of a gross misdemeanor punishable under chapter 9A.20 RCW.
[1994 sp.s. c 7 § 424; 1959 c 143 § 1; 1957 c 93 § 1; 1909 c 249 § 265; 1886 p 81 § 1; Code 1881 § 929; RRS § 2517.]"
RCW 9.94A.125 also mentions knife as it relates to being defined a deadly weapon:
"For purposes of this section, a deadly weapon is an implement or instrument which has the capacity to inflict death and from the manner in which it is used, is likely to produce or may easily and readily produce death. The following instruments are included in the term deadly weapon: Blackjack, sling shot, billy, sand club, sandbag, metal knuckles, any dirk, dagger, pistol, revolver, or any other firearm, any knife having a blade longer than three inches, any razor with an unguarded blade, any metal pipe or bar used or intended to be used as a club, any explosive, and any weapon containing poisonous or injurious gas."
If you search on 'knife' you will get several references. In Washington a knife used in a crime will add the deadly weapon charge if the blade is over 3". No where in the RCW does it define the maximum carry length. And if the Seattle Police gave you the 3.5" figure, you can probably guess that it changes city to city.
I remember you mentioning Kershaw Task's, which I wondered about as the statutes prohibit 'spring mechanisms'. But as the blade on the Task is not released by a button, but by the normal opening motion, it is legal.
Thanks for the piece on the 3.5" in Seattle. I wasn't aware of that. Any info on other cities around the state?
------------------
E. Larson
Edmonds, WA
I guess I need to type faster I had it all typed out and Elarsen beat me to the punch.
As a former reserve duputy I can say most LEO that I know or have dealt with either don't know or care as long as your not bringing attention to yourself. I do know that Butterfly knives are illegal in this state. I will check here in Vancouver to see if there is any ordinances regarding length.
[This message has been edited by R.D.M. (edited 01-15-2000).]
[This message has been edited by R.D.M. (edited 01-15-2000).]
Unocide,
Try this link: http://www.state.va.us/
It's similar to homepage Washington.
R.D.M., thanks for your input. There can be a wide gulf sometimes between the law and what's enforced. It's best to know what the cop on the beat thinks.
------------------
E. Larson
Edmonds, WA
Try this link: http://www.state.va.us/
It's similar to homepage Washington.
R.D.M., thanks for your input. There can be a wide gulf sometimes between the law and what's enforced. It's best to know what the cop on the beat thinks.
------------------
E. Larson
Edmonds, WA
Oh great, and there I was, walking the streets of Seattle with a fixed blade and a BM Stryker.It really sucks to live in a world where you have to do extensive research on what knife is legal or illegal in which state and whether or not the state law is nullified by some county or city statute.It is to bad we exist in the midst of such BS.
This is pretty long. The first is Clark County the second is the city of Vancouver.
9.02.020 Weapons.
No person shall, at any time, have in their possession or bring into or upon any county building any weapon. As used in this ordinance, the term weapon includes: any sling shot, sand club, metal knuckles, spring blade knife or any knife the blade of which is automatically released by a spring mechanism or other mechanical device, any knife having a blade which opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust, or movement, any dagger, dirk, bow and arrow, crossbow, spring or gas propelled b.b. or pellet gun, spear, javelin, any device commonly known as non-chu-ka stick which consists of two or more links of wood, metal, plastic or similar substance connected with wire, rope or other means, any device commonly known as throwing stars, which are multi-pointed, metal objects designed to imbed upon impact from any aspect, incendiary devices, incapacitating gas dispensers, or any other weapon except in designated target range areas of the county. (Sec. 2 of Ord. 1984-08-33; amended by Sec. 1 of Ord. 1985-02-12; amended by Sec. 1 of Ord. 1989-07-15)
7.41.010 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter all words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed to them, unless otherwise noted.
"Balisong knife," also known as "butterfly knife," means a knife consisting of a single-edge blade and a two-piece handle. In the closed position, the two halves of the handle sheathe the blade. In the open position the two halves of the handle from a haft. When the knife is held in the full open position, the blade is locked.
"Chucka sticks," also known as "numchuks" or as "nunchaku," means any instrument which consists of two pieces of wood, metal or other substance connected by a chain, rope or other similar device approximately eight to ten inches in length.
"Dangerous knife" means any knife having a blade more than three inches in length, or any dagger, sword, bayonet, bolo knife, machete, straight-edge razor, or razor blade not in a package, dispenser or shaving appliance.
"Switchblade knife" means any knife having a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring mechanism or other device, or a blade that opens, falls or is ejected into position by force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust or movement.
"Throwing star" means any multi-pointed metal object designed to embed upon impact from any aspect. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
7.41.020 Unlawful use of weapons.
(a) It is unlawful for anyone knowingly to:
(1) Sell, manufacture, purchase, possess or carry any blackjack, sandclub, metal knuckles, balisong or switchblade knife; or
(2) Carry concealed on his person or in any vehicle any dangerous knife as defined in Section 7.41.010 of this code; or
(3) Possess or carry on his or her person or in any vehicle chuka sticks or a throwing star.
(b) Unlawful use of a weapon is a misdemeanor. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
7.41.030 Exemptions.
(a) The proscriptions of Section 7.41.020(A)(2) of this code relating to dangerous knives shall not apply to:
(1) Individual licensed hunters or fishermen while on a hunting, camping or fishing trip;
(2) Any person carrying such knife in a secure wrapper from or to the place of purchase or a place of repair to or from his home or place of business, or in moving from one place of abode or business to another, or while in his place of abode or fixed place of business.
7.41.270 Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm--Unlawful carrying or handling--Penalty.
(a) It is unlawful for anyone to carry, exhibit, display or draw any firearm, dagger, sword, knife or other cutting or stabbing instrument, club, or any other weapon apparently capable of producing bodily harm, in a manner, under circumstances, and at a time and place that either manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons.
(b) Any person violating the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(c) Subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to or affect the following:
(1) Any act committed by a person while in his place of abode or fixed place of business;
(2) Any person who by virtue of his office or public employment is vested by law with a duty to preserve public safety, maintain public order, or to make arrests for offenses, while in the performance of such duty;
(3) Any person acting for the purpose of protecting himself against the use of presently threatened unlawful force by another, or for the purpose of protecting another against the use of such unlawful force by a third person;
(4) Any person making or assisting in making a lawful arrest for the commission of a felony; or
(5) Any person engaged in military activities sponsored by the federal or state governments. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
------------------
Ray
Vancouver, Wa.
9.02.020 Weapons.
No person shall, at any time, have in their possession or bring into or upon any county building any weapon. As used in this ordinance, the term weapon includes: any sling shot, sand club, metal knuckles, spring blade knife or any knife the blade of which is automatically released by a spring mechanism or other mechanical device, any knife having a blade which opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust, or movement, any dagger, dirk, bow and arrow, crossbow, spring or gas propelled b.b. or pellet gun, spear, javelin, any device commonly known as non-chu-ka stick which consists of two or more links of wood, metal, plastic or similar substance connected with wire, rope or other means, any device commonly known as throwing stars, which are multi-pointed, metal objects designed to imbed upon impact from any aspect, incendiary devices, incapacitating gas dispensers, or any other weapon except in designated target range areas of the county. (Sec. 2 of Ord. 1984-08-33; amended by Sec. 1 of Ord. 1985-02-12; amended by Sec. 1 of Ord. 1989-07-15)
7.41.010 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter all words and phrases shall have the meanings ascribed to them, unless otherwise noted.
"Balisong knife," also known as "butterfly knife," means a knife consisting of a single-edge blade and a two-piece handle. In the closed position, the two halves of the handle sheathe the blade. In the open position the two halves of the handle from a haft. When the knife is held in the full open position, the blade is locked.
"Chucka sticks," also known as "numchuks" or as "nunchaku," means any instrument which consists of two pieces of wood, metal or other substance connected by a chain, rope or other similar device approximately eight to ten inches in length.
"Dangerous knife" means any knife having a blade more than three inches in length, or any dagger, sword, bayonet, bolo knife, machete, straight-edge razor, or razor blade not in a package, dispenser or shaving appliance.
"Switchblade knife" means any knife having a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring mechanism or other device, or a blade that opens, falls or is ejected into position by force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust or movement.
"Throwing star" means any multi-pointed metal object designed to embed upon impact from any aspect. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
7.41.020 Unlawful use of weapons.
(a) It is unlawful for anyone knowingly to:
(1) Sell, manufacture, purchase, possess or carry any blackjack, sandclub, metal knuckles, balisong or switchblade knife; or
(2) Carry concealed on his person or in any vehicle any dangerous knife as defined in Section 7.41.010 of this code; or
(3) Possess or carry on his or her person or in any vehicle chuka sticks or a throwing star.
(b) Unlawful use of a weapon is a misdemeanor. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
7.41.030 Exemptions.
(a) The proscriptions of Section 7.41.020(A)(2) of this code relating to dangerous knives shall not apply to:
(1) Individual licensed hunters or fishermen while on a hunting, camping or fishing trip;
(2) Any person carrying such knife in a secure wrapper from or to the place of purchase or a place of repair to or from his home or place of business, or in moving from one place of abode or business to another, or while in his place of abode or fixed place of business.
7.41.270 Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm--Unlawful carrying or handling--Penalty.
(a) It is unlawful for anyone to carry, exhibit, display or draw any firearm, dagger, sword, knife or other cutting or stabbing instrument, club, or any other weapon apparently capable of producing bodily harm, in a manner, under circumstances, and at a time and place that either manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons.
(b) Any person violating the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
(c) Subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to or affect the following:
(1) Any act committed by a person while in his place of abode or fixed place of business;
(2) Any person who by virtue of his office or public employment is vested by law with a duty to preserve public safety, maintain public order, or to make arrests for offenses, while in the performance of such duty;
(3) Any person acting for the purpose of protecting himself against the use of presently threatened unlawful force by another, or for the purpose of protecting another against the use of such unlawful force by a third person;
(4) Any person making or assisting in making a lawful arrest for the commission of a felony; or
(5) Any person engaged in military activities sponsored by the federal or state governments. (Ord. 3272 § 2 (part), 1996)
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Ray
Vancouver, Wa.