If you live in a big city or a desolate area, then you must take your self defense seriously. Since you are here, we are assuming that you are thinking to carry a knife for your safety or you may have bought a knife already. So, without further ado, let’s jump into the details of this delicate matter.
What Does the Law Say About It?
Whether you can legally carry a knife is an argumentative subject. That is because every state doesn’t follow the same law. Even in some countries, the laws are different for different cities. Generally, there are some legal aspects that you need to scrutinize when you purchase a knife. These factors include the size, mechanism, location, and intended use of the weapon.
What Size Is Ideal?
Sometimes, the size of the blade can get you in trouble in front of the judiciary. And, in some cases, the overall length of the knife is considered. The length of the knife has been set to 3.5 inches in a few regions. In other areas, according to the law, you can’t keep a knife with a blade that is broader than your palm. To find the right size, you have to study what the law in your area says about it.
What is the Suitable Mechanism?
A knife is also a very diverse weapon as comes in a variety of shapes and mechanisms. There are places where opening mechanisms that have a spring are illegal. These are also popular as automatic or push-button knives. If your area disallows one mechanism, you can always opt for another one. There are fixed blade knives that can be folded into pocket knives.
Where You Should and Shouldn’t Carry a Knife?
Obviously, you shouldn’t even think about taking a knife with you when you are going to places that have strict security systems and metal detecting machines. In Japan and Australia, you are not allowed to keep a knife anywhere. Remember, if a police officer ever asks you the reason for carrying a knife, never claim that it is for your safety. Because if you do that, you may get arrested. Instead of arguing, use your right to remain silent.
Intended Use
There are some knives that are for non-defensive work use, for instance, cooking knives, knives that are used for cutting cardboards or ropes, and a hunting knife. Nevertheless, make sure that the nature of your work and your knife coincide when you give a statement. That means, if you have a knife, you must have a valid reason for carrying it.
This brings us to another factor that is quite essential—responsibility. Don’t use a weapon that can hurt anyone without proper training. Who knows? You may end up getting serious wounds. Moreover, self-defense doesn’t mean that you can take someone’s life to protect yourself.
Conclusion
Before you put a knife in your bag or pocket, make sure you have done your research. Your one careless act can have serious consequences that may disturb your whole life. We are sure that you are not up for dealing with anxiety and nightmares for the rest of your life. So, ask yourself if you are ready to handle it. In case, the answer is yes, then you can carry it. Not to be outdone, you must be trained and have all the understanding of the knife that you own. Without this, you won’t be able to tell the legal authorities why you have it in your possession.
