Laws are frequently illogical and counterproductive. Some pampered Ivy League wussy gets frightened by the very idea of something, whips all those other pudgy momma's boys into a frenzy, and then we've got a new law preventing us from owning / doing / saying something they find distasteful (under threat of imprisonment and permanent demotion to "2nd class citizen" status).
The knife laws vary greatly from state to state. In some places the blade has to be under a certain length, in others it has to be worn openly, and some places prohibit autos, balisongs, Bowies, double-edged knives, or even folding knifes that can be "flicked" open by pinching the blade and whipping your arm. I've heard that some legislators have their eye on assisted openers and serrated folders next.
The switchblade prohibition was a direct result of the "juvenile delinquent" movies of the 50s. They specifically had in mind cheapo imported stiletto side-openers (like the crap you see with plastic grips and swing-guards). High quality American-made autos, like Microtech and Benchmade, are currently in high demand amongst our troops deployed overseas, and as many of them return home -- some with upper extremity amputations -- they may be inclined to lobby to have this ridiculous and archaic law repealed.
What teenaged gang member is going to mug someone with a $400 Microtech, when he can get a Lorcin .380 for less than $100? Automatics are useful and valuable tools, and as most of them have lightweight single-edged blades under 4" in length they're not as effective as the far more common kitchen knife or screwdriver in a fight. By their nature, most automatics are less durable than a fixed blade, balisong, or sturdy folder -- that's the trade-off for the convenience of instant access. They are a small sporting / utility / emergency knife that can be opened by pushing a button -- nothing more.
. I guess what morimotom said about autos having a stigma and the illusion of being more destructive may have some substance to it.
