Question about knife laws in VA

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Jul 1, 2006
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Is it legal for me to carry a knife, unconcealed, in VA? Does the size matter? I've been trying to look this up, and haven't had much luck.
 
There are no state laws prohibiting open carry or specifying a maximum blade length. There may be local ordinances, particularly if you live in the metro DC or Virginia Beach areas, as opposed to SW Virginia.
 
Bowie knives used to be illegal in Virginia, as in many Southern states, but I believe that has been repealed.

You should also add Richmond to your list of local jurisdictions that need checking. I know that they were enforcing a 3" maximum on folders a few years ago but things do change. In the Peoples Republic of Arlington, strangely enough, there seems to be no limit on unconcealed carry lengths. i would expect, however, that you would attact a certain amount of attention if you were carrying a large fixed blade on your belt. Me, I have carried various knives up to and including my Gibbs CUDA MAXX 7" and various forms of belt knives. Of late, the only belt knife that I have carried is my Greco Li'l Dangler which I clip to a rear belt loop and tuck into my hip pocket. The knife is partially visible, so it is not concealed, but it does not attract attention.
 
FullerH said:
Bowie knives used to be illegal in Virginia, as in many Southern states, but I believe that has been repealed.
Bowies, daggers, and dirks are legal to carry openly in the Commonwealth. Of course, one may get some strange looks. :eek:

I carry a 5" fixed blade IWB (serrated Culloden) and haven't made a bad impression on anyone as a result, for I are charming and present a squared-away appearence. :D
 
The Bowie was outlawed back in the 19th Century when the media of the time portrayed it as the "weapon that was about to end civilization as we know it." Since then, as you know,m several other weapons such as sewitchblades, balisongs, and "assault weapons" have joined them. THe real irony is that Bowies still are illegal in Arkansas and Texas.
 
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