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Is it Legal to Carry a Knife in Washington State?
Washington is a relatively knife-friendly state, but there are still some restrictions on carrying knives in public. It’s important to be aware of the laws before carrying a pocket knife or other blade. In this article, we will discuss the legality of carrying a knife in Washington State and provide tips for staying within the law.
The state of Washington has a few different laws that relate to carrying knives. These laws can be found in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). The most important law to be aware of is RCW 9.41.250, which states that it is unlawful for any person to carry a dirk, dagger, stiletto, or other dangerous cutting or stabbing weapon concealed on or about their person.
Carrying Knives Openly in Washington State
Folding knives with blades of four inches or less are considered legal to carry openly in Washington State.
Automatic knives, gravity knives, and switchblades are all illegal to carry in Washington State, regardless of blade length.
There are some exceptions to these laws. For example, it is legal to carry a knife for work-related purposes, such as hunting or fishing. It is also legal to carry a knife for self-defense, but only if you can demonstrate that you have a reasonable fear of harm.
Carrying Knives Concealed in Washington State
In Washington State, concealed carry of most knives is legal, however, there are exceptions. RCW 9.41.250 makes it unlawful to carry a dirk, dagger, stiletto, or other dangerous cutting or stabbing weapon concealed on or about one’s person.
Washington law defines a “dirk or dagger” very broadly as “any dangerous cutting or stabbing instrument designed and intended to be worn concealed on or about the person.” This broad definition has been interpreted to include folding knives with blades of any length, as well as fixed-blade knives with blades shorter than 4 inches.
The only exception to this law is for knives that are carried with a valid concealed pistol license (CPL). CPL holders may carry any type of knife, regardless of size or design, concealed on or about their person.
Tips for Staying Within the Law
If you are planning on carrying a knife in Washington State, it is important to be aware of the laws and to take steps to stay within the law. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a knife that is legal to carry.
- Carry the knife openly.
- Do not carry the knife in a way that could be considered threatening.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid situations where you might need to use the knife.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you are staying within the law and using your knife responsibly.
General FAQ on Knife Laws in Washington State
Q: What types of knives are legal to carry in Washington State?
A: Folding knives with blades of 4 inches or less are legal to carry openly or concealed. Fixed blade knives with blades of any length may be carried concealed with a valid CPL.
Q: Can I carry a knife for self-defense in Washington State?
A: Yes, you may carry a knife for self-defense, but only if you can demonstrate that you have a reasonable fear of harm.
Q: What are the penalties for violating Washington’s knife laws?
A: The penalties for violating Washington’s knife laws can vary depending on the specific violation. However, they may include fines, jail time, or both.
Conclusion
The laws surrounding carrying knives in Washington State can be complex. However, by understanding these laws and taking steps to stay within them, you can help ensure that you are using your knife responsibly and legally.
Are you interested in learning more about the legality of carrying a knife in Washington State?
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