South Dakota Knife Laws

[dbugg91]

From what I can tell from online searches, SD only restrictions on knives is that ballistic knives(knives that are defined as having blades that are EXPELLED from the handle by either spring or compressed air) are illegal. I am unable to find any restrictions as far as length, blade style, "concealed" carry, etc. The question is that if there are indeed no restrictions, or if there are and just are not well known. Any feedback would be appreciated.

 

[glistam]

Best strategy is to go for the most official source, which in this case is the state legislature's official site.

http://legis.sd.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=22-14

I read through the whole thing and virtually every law is about guns and nothing else. There are literally no restrictions on knife carry unless you're committing a felony or smuggling it into a court house. Of course, it's possible a big city might have a knife ordinance, but I would have to know which one to find it.

Interestingly enough, South Dakota's ballistic knife ban was repealed in 2006. That's awesome! Granted they are incredibly stupid, worthless novelties. But that's no reason to make them illegal when guns are still allowed.

22-1-2. Definition of terms. Terms used in this title mean:
...
(10) "Dangerous weapon" or "deadly weapon," any firearm, stun gun, knife, or device, instrument, material, or substance, whether animate or inanimate, which is calculated or designed to inflict death or serious bodily harm, or by the manner in which it is used is likely to inflict death or serious bodily harm;

22-14-8. Concealment of weapon with intent to commit felony--Felony. Any person who conceals on or about his or her person a controlled or dangerous weapon with intent to commit a felony is guilty of a Class 5 felony.

22-14-23. Possession in county courthouse--Misdemeanor. Except as provided in § 22-14-24, any person who knowingly possesses or causes to be present any firearm or other dangerous weapon, in any county courthouse, or attempts to do so, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.