Germany
German law explicitly forbids a few types of knives and regards other types of knives as weapons.
German law defines a weapon to be any item that is intended to reduce or eliminate the ability of a person to attack another person or to defend themselves. Example: A bayonet is intended to injure or kill people, hence it is regarded as a weapon by the law, while a machete is regarded as a tool to clear dense vegetation. A knife with a two-sided blade and a switchblade which is not illegal as described below are always regarded as weapons. Sabres and similar items are regarded as weapons.
German law explicitly lists the following knives as being illegal to manufacture, import, sell or possess:
* Butterfly knives
* Gravity knives
* Push daggers
* Switchblade knives are the only knives where the law makes restrictions on the length of the knife:
o All OTF switchblade knives are regarded as illegal to possess.
o All side-opening switchblade knives are illegal, except when the blade is no longer than 8.5 cm
The law makes an exception for push daggers: These knives may be owned and used by owners of a hunting permit, or by members of the fur industry.
All weapons are subject to restrictions, including a minimum age of the owner, they have to be stored properly and may not be carried at certain public events. All knives that are not illegal or regarded as weapons can be purchased, owned and carried by anyone.
In February 2008 a new law was passed which outlaws the carrying of certain types of knives without commonly awarded purpose:
* All switchblades, even those formerly allowed for carrying.
* All locking folders with one-handed opening mechanism. If the knife has just one of these two features, it is still legal.
* All blades over 12.0 cm.
