Pain in the Axis

[Jeff]

I transplanted this topic from the First Year forum archive.

My concern is quite practical as I have just acquired an Axis to carry about. While there has been some legal precendent, I believe, distinguishing locking folders from the feared "switchblades", the Axis presents another problem indeed.
           
By any stretch of an antiknifers imagination, could a tool like a Benchmade Axis knife be considered to be an autoknife? With the lock mechanism tugged back, you can easily flip open the blade or even let gravity unfold cold steel. If I had wanted an auto, I would have sought one out. I consider the Axis to be a manual folder but other critics may believe differently.
Jeff

 

[TAckerman]

Jeff,
I see your point. However, if in front of a jury it would be quite easy to point out the "Thumb Studs" for manual opening which serves as IMHO as proper intent by design.

Recently an individual wrote on one of the forums about a case where a guy was arrested for cerrying a concealed gun in a fanny pack holster rig.

Because the rig wasdesigned to carry a gun, it was deemed not concealed. Just as if it was in a full flap holster that covered the whole gun.

I know that we are splitting hairs here as I was surprised (pleasantly) at the verdict.

The point...
Precedent has been set manufacturers design outweighing any type of mal-intent.

Not legal advice...just an observation and opinion.

ACK