Measuring a blade length?

Brian Avila

Brian Avila

Joined
Jan 2, 2011
Messages
1,286
This sounds like a stupid question but I am going to ask it anyways.

I understand that when you measure a "blade" most of the time it is from the tip to the where the scales/guard:handle meets the ricasso and that the cutting edge is measured from the tip to the bevel.

Can anyone explain to me why the blade and edge measurements are not the same?

In my state of CO you can only carry a 3.5" blade which limits carrying. Depending on who you are you get different answers on how to measure the blade.
 
Your states statutes will likely have a "definitions" section that will outline that.
 
iirc most legalese declare blade length = penetration depth. so tip to scale/guard make sense... yeah ain't fair if for those blades with large forward choke choil ;)
 
bluntcut said:
iirc most legalese declare blade length = penetration depth. so tip to scale/guard make sense... yeah ain't fair if for those blades with large forward choke choil ;)
Click to expand...

I'm not sure 'fair' comes into it, but certainly I think tip-to-scales is the most sensible (and conservative) way to interpret 'blade length'. Knife laws are nearly always in the weapons category of the legal code, so reach and penetration depth are the natural targets for regulation. For instance, a pattern-maker's chisel might only have an inch of edge, but has a looong reach and penetration potential.
 
I got a hold of a policeman. He said you measure from tip to handle connection. Stacy's links are correct.
 
One good thing about living in California, (outside of a couple of cities) no blade length restrictions.

I'd always take the conservative route. If your knife is ever taken by an ill informed cop get his badge number, name and receipt.
 
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