Sheathes: Do they turn concealed carry into non-concealed carry?

[Sharperthansticks]

I'd like to carry my CRKT Provoke karambit, but I'm afraid of running afoul of concealed carry laws. If I buy the sheath for it, and the sheath can be seen by others (meaning cops), does this turn a concealed carry situation into a non-concealed carry situation, legally speaking? I'm in VA, by the way.

 

[zzyzzogeton]

I'm not a lawyer, but just putting a knife in a sheath does not "conceal" it. If a cop can see the sheath, it is not concealed.

 

[sgt1372]

I'd like to carry my CRKT Provoke karambit, but I'm afraid of running afoul of concealed carry laws. If I buy the sheath for it, and the sheath can be seen by others (meaning cops), does this turn a concealed carry situation into a non-concealed carry situation, legally speaking? I'm in VA, by the way.

How does the law read in VA?

In CA, it is illegal to carry concealed any "dirk or dagger" (basically any fixed blade knife that an be used to stab someone). Of course, such a weapon would by necessity have to be carried in a sheath. So, technically, you cannot cover up such a weapon when you are carrying it. It would be ok to strap it to your leg but not carry it on your waist covered by your shirt. It's dumb but it's the law.

FWIW, a folder locked in the OPEN position that could be used to stab someone would also be considered a "dirk or dagger" and could not be carried concealed. For example, if your Provoke was locked OPEN and clipped to your belt, it would be illegal to cover it w/your shirt or jacket.

Anyway, at least in in CA, carrying a Provoke (or any other folder) "concealed" in a sheath or clipped toor sitting loose in your pocket in the CLOSED position would NOT be in violation of state law.

BTW, in addition to being a retired LEO, I am also a retired attorney still licensed to practice in CA and DC.