Question about Israeli knife laws

[YuriM]

I just wanted to know what Israeli legislature concerning knives is. I tried searching the web, but there's little information to be found on this topic. Can anybody tell me anything or tell me where I can read about it? Thanks in advance.

 

[shaldag]

I don't think that there are any specific laws written about knives. It used to be that you could carry anything. However, certain political problems have caught up with us, and now there are metal detectors everywhere. In private places like clubs, it is up to the owner's discretion--usually left in the hands of a security guard. In a public place that is guarded--like a government ministry, museum, holy site, or some such--it will be found by the security people and the decision will be based on the decisions of the directives received from the chief of security, who has almost certainly drafted some directives, so it won't be completely arbitrary. In many cases, you will not be allowed to enter with a sheath knife or large folder. If you want to keep it with you-- something about 2" should be ok. Slipjoints are probably best.

If you have a carry permit for a pistol, then don't worry about anything.

In general, though, small knives are best for reducing paranoia on the part of security personell-- and there is plenty of good reason for paranoia in Israel.

 

[YuriM]

I consulted with a friend of mine who worked as a guard here (in Israel) and is now member of an auxiliary volunteer police force... He says that it's technically illegal to carry a fixed blade or a folder over 8 cm without "special circumstances". "Special circumstances" include if you live on the Territories. If you have a receipt to confirm that you just purchased the knife in a store and are taking it home, it's also OK (he said that it would be possible to talk your way out of it even if you don't have a receipt -- unless you're an arab, in which case, you're in trouble). If you have a gun permit, you will definitely be OK. Folders under 8 cm (just over 3") are completely legal, but as was mentioned, a guard has the right to deny you entry regardless, even if you're completely empty-handed -- I've often seen cars with arab-looking drivers denied entry to parking lots in malls.