This article will give you the basics of Illinois knife law in simple everyday language. It will also include excerpts from the law itself and case precedence so you will know exactly what the law means. The excerpts are truncated by me with […] whenever it goes off into something that is unrelated to knives.
What is Legal/Illegal to Own in Illinois
- Balisong knives are legal.
- Disguised knives like cane knives, belt knives, and lipstick knives are legal.
- Throwing knives are legal.
- Bowie knives and other large knives are legal.
- Throwing stars are illegal.
- Ballistic knives are illegal.
- Switchblades and other automatic knives are illegal, UNLESS you carry a valid FOID card (Firearms Owners IDentification).
The state of Illinois only banned the possession of throwing stars, switchblades, ballistic knives, and knives that open with a press of the button.
Limits on Carry
You can carry any knife as long as it is not one of the banned knives listed above and that you do not have the intent to harm someone or break the law. The law goes into more details on this…
What the Law Says
Limit on Unlawful Use
720 ILCS 5/24-1 (2013) Unlawful Use of Weapons
(a) A person commits the offense of unlawful use of weapons when he knowingly:
(1) Sells, manufactures, purchases, possesses or carries any […] metal knuckles or other knuckle weapon regardless of its composition, throwing star, or any knife, commonly referred to as a switchblade knife, which has a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife, or a ballistic knife, which is a device that propels a knifelike blade as a projectile by means of a coil spring, elastic material or compressed gas; or
(2) Carries or possesses with intent to use the same unlawfully against another, a dagger, dirk, billy, dangerous knife, razor, stiletto, broken bottle or other piece of glass, stun gun or taser or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument of like character; or
(9) Carries or possesses in a vehicle or on or about his person any pistol, revolver, stun gun or taser or firearm or ballistic knife, when he is hooded, robed or masked in such manner as to conceal his identity;
(b) Sentence. A person convicted of a violation of subsection 24-1(a)(1) through (5) […] commits a Class A misdemeanor. A person convicted of a violation of subsection […] 24-1(a)(9) commits a Class 4 felony; […] A person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of subsection […] 24-1(a)(9) commits a Class 3 felony. The possession of each weapon in violation of this Section constitutes a single and separate violation.
This law bans brass knuckles, throwing stars, switchblades (and other automatic knives), and ballistic knives in the state of Illinois. The case of People v. Gazelle found that the knife ban in section (a)(1) only applies to switchblade knives or ballistic knives. Other knives that are not switchblades and ballistic knives are not banned. This means that balisong knives, also called butterfly knives, are legal.
IMPORTANT NOTE
In August of 2017, Illinois Public Act 100-0082 was revised to allow for ownership and carry of a switchblade knife as long as you posess a valid Firearms Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. Applications cost $10, may take up to 30 days to acquire, and the minimum age is 21. You’ll still be subject to municipal laws which may differ from the rest of the state (as in Greater Chicago).
The law also makes it illegal to open or concealed carry daggers, dirks, razors, stilettos, “dangerous knife,” and other similar dangerous weapons when you are attempting to harm someone else. You can also carry dirks, razors, daggers, stilettos, and “dangerous knives” all you want as long as you do not have the intent of harming another person.
On top of that, having a ballistic knife on you when wearing a mask is class 4 felony. Getting caught twice with a ballistic knife when wearing a mask is a class 3 felony.
Owning banned knives or carrying daggers, dirks, razors, stilettos, and other dangerous knives are a class A misdemeanor.
The term “dangerous knife” can mean a lot of things. Here is what case precedence and the legislature has determined.
What is a Dangerous Weapon
720 ILCS 5/33A-1 (2013) Legislative intent and definitions
(a) Legislative findings. The legislature finds and declares the following:
(1) The use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a felony offense poses a much greater threat to the public health, safety, and general welfare, than when a weapon is not used in the commission of the offense.
[…]
(1) “Armed with a dangerous weapon”. A person is considered armed with a dangerous weapon for purposes of this Article, when he or she carries on or about his or her person or is otherwise armed with a Category I, Category II, or Category III weapon.
(2) A Category I weapon is a handgun, sawed-off shotgun, sawed-off rifle, any other firearm small enough to be concealed upon the person, semiautomatic firearm, or machine gun. A Category II weapon is any other rifle, shotgun, spring gun, other firearm, stun gun or taser as defined in paragraph (a) of Section 24-1 of this Code [720 ILCS 5/24-1], knife with a blade of at least 3 inches in length, dagger, dirk, switchblade knife, stiletto, axe, hatchet, or other deadly or dangerous weapon or instrument of like character.
(3) A Category III weapon is a bludgeon, black-jack, slungshot, sand-bag, sand-club, metal knuckles, billy, or other dangerous weapon of like character.
This section of the law was designed to stiffen penalties for felonies committed with a dangerous weapon. This section of the law also gives us a good idea of what the legislature means when they say “dangerous weapon.”
Category II dangerous weapons are daggers, dirks, switchblades, stilettos, axes, hatchets, knives with blades over 3 inches, and other similar weapons. Category III dangerous weapons are metal knuckles. However, the case of People v. Kohl in 2006 found that, just because a push knife that has two holes to put your fingers through does not make it a metal knuckle. This is unlike some other states who have determined that knives with holes through which to place your fingers and knuckles, do count as metal knuckles. Note that, in Kohl’s case, his push knife only had 2 holes. If your knife has more, it might still count as metal knuckles (think of WWI trench knives).
There also has been some unique cases that have further defined what a dangerous weapon is. The case of People v. Weger found that a straight-blade razor since it has a legitimate use is not a dangerous weapon per se.
The case of People v. Chrisos found that a piece of broken glass that was 2 to 3 inches in length counts as a dangerous weapon since the edge is a blade. The case of People v. Ptak in 1990 also found that a broken bottle counts as a dangerous weapon since it has can be used like a knife to stab people.
On top of all these specific rules, the case of People v. Fort in 1970 found that, even if an item is not specifically listed as a dangerous weapon, it can still count as a dangerous weapon by the way it is used. The case of People v. Kinchy found that having a hunting knife is not a crime in and of itself but, only when you have intent to harm others, would it be. The case of People v. Marquita in 2012 found that having a steak knife can count as an unlawful use of weapons when there is clear evidence that you are going to use it to harm someone.
Limits on Knives in Certain Locations
720 ILCS 5/24-1 (2013) Unlawful Use of Weapons
(c) Violations in specific places.
(1.5) A person who violates subsection 24-1(a)(9) in any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year, in residential property owned, operated, or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development, in a public park, in a courthouse, on the real property comprising any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year, on residential property owned, operated, or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development, on the real property comprising any public park, on the real property comprising any courthouse, in any conveyance owned, leased, or contracted by a school to transport students to or from school or a school related activity, in any conveyance owned, leased, or contracted by a public transportation agency, or on any public way within 1,000 feet of the real property comprising any school, public park, courthouse, public transportation facility, or residential property owned, operated, or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development commits a Class 3 felony.
(2) A person who violates subsection 24-1(a)(1), 24-1(a)(2), or 24-1(a)(3) in any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year, in residential property owned, operated or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development, in a public park, in a courthouse, on the real property comprising any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year, on residential property owned, operated or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development, on the real property comprising any public park, on the real property comprising any courthouse, in any conveyance owned, leased or contracted by a school to transport students to or from school or a school related activity, in any conveyance owned, leased, or contracted by a public transportation agency, or on any public way within 1,000 feet of the real property comprising any school, public park, courthouse, public transportation facility, or residential property owned, operated, or managed by a public housing agency or leased by a public housing agency as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development commits a Class 4 felony. “Courthouse” means any building that is used by the Circuit, Appellate, or Supreme Court of this State for the conduct of official business.
(4) For the purposes of this subsection (c), “school” means any public or private elementary or secondary school, community college, college, or university.
(5) For the purposes of this subsection (c), “public transportation agency” means a public or private agency that provides for the transportation or conveyance of persons by means available to the general public, except for transportation by automobiles not used for conveyance of the general public as passengers; and “public transportation facility” means a terminal or other place where one may obtain public transportation.
(e) Exemptions. Crossbows, Common or Compound bows and Underwater Spearguns are exempted from the definition of ballistic knife as defined in paragraph (1) of subsection (a) of this Section.
This is a continuation of the unlawful use of weapons law. It says that having a ballistic knife on you when you are wearing a mask on any property listed above will upgrade the offense from a class 4 felony to a class 3 felony. Having a dirk, razor, stiletto, switchblade, ballistic knife, or any other dangerous weapon at a place listed above will cause the class A misdemeanor to increase to a Class 4 felony.
Limits on Storage and Possession
720 ILCS 5/21-6 (2013) Unauthorized Possession or Storage of Weapons
(a) Whoever possesses or stores any weapon enumerated in Section 33A-1 [720 ILCS 5/33A-1] in any building or on land supported in whole or in part with public funds or in any building on such land without prior written permission from the chief security officer for such land or building commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(b) The chief security officer must grant any reasonable request for permission under paragraph (a).
This law says that, if you commit a felony with a dangerous weapon and hide it at a place funded by the public, you will be slapped with a Class A misdemeanor in addition to your other charges. So, robbing a bank is one charge. Robbing a bank with a dangerous weapon is another charge. And unauthorized storage of your weapon at a park is a third charge. Three charges for one crime! The State of Illinois does not play around.
Conclusion on Illinois Knife Laws
The state of Illinois has fair knife laws. I’m assuming most of these laws were written to counteract gang violence in South Chicago. Other states have more relaxed laws than Illinois but Illinois’s laws are not that restrictive.
You can own any knife you would like as long as it is not a ballistic knife, throwing star or switchblade (switchblade carry is now legal with a FOID card – see section “important note” earlier in this article). Automatic knives are in the gray area since they are activated by pressing a button but balisong knives are legal.
You can carry any knife you want as long as you do not have the intent to harm someone. This should be pretty self-explanatory. The law also has all these long paragraphs about how committing a crime with a deadly weapon would increase the offense but I’m sure that applies to none of you ;-). The law does state specifically what is a dangerous weapon but case precedence has determined that certain things, and how it is used, can make almost anything a dangerous weapon.
Note that I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice. There are also county laws that come into play as well so look up your municipal laws. If you have any questions, ask it in the comment box below. However, many questions will probably have to be directed to a state attorney or para-legal for official clarification.
Can you please elaborate on throwing knives (non-folding, single edge blade, less than 6”) in the greater Chicagoland area? Are these allowed, can they be concealed and is there a limit on how many I can carry? I travel in and around Chicago daily and needless to say there are some bad neighborhoods. I don’t want to break any laws but I do want to be able to protect myself against gang members that might have guns (yes, I know you shouldn’t bring a knife to a gun fight but it’s better than trying to try throw my boot at them). I only want to conceal them because I don’t want customers that I visit to think I’m a crazy psycho if I walk in to their businesses with a sheath of 3 or 6 knives on my belt.
Thanks for your help,
Redhat
Nice sum up of the laws. Gives a much clearer idea of what you can get here in Illinois. Most likely the 2.5″ to 3″ laws you hear about are more county or city base laws or tips to avoid hassle if caught with one during random inspections or traffic stops etc. Thanks!
Is it considered a illegal automatic knife if it is spring loaded when you open it without button pressure?
So it’s legal to carry a bowie knife as long as you do not intend to harm someone?
I’ve heard there is an exemption for local 134 electricians.
Any truth to this?
Pay close attention to the limits on knives section…Looks like you can’t have ANY knife on your person if you’re at a school or public park, or on any public way within 1000 ft of a school or public park.
Now, how to avoid being this? …
http://wgntv.com/2013/08/01/family-carjacked-at-gunpoint-in-schaumburg/
So an Illinois resident could own a Bowie knife as long as it was under 3″ long? LOL! Do they make em that small?
Bowie knives and other large knives are legal.
Chicago also has additional knife laws. In illinois a blade up to 3″ is legal to carry while in chicago the blade limit is 2.5″
I don’t think Illinois knife laws are fair at all. Good citizens pay the price, once again, for the criminal actions occurring in areas heavily populated by certain minorities. No need to beat around the bush about this. My Spyderco and Kershaw assisted opener can be opened MUCH FASTER than a Protech Auto. I don’t understand why in the world auto knives are banned. It makes NO sense, unless every politician is stuck in a time warp watching West Side Story as their paradigm of behavior. Auto knives come in very handy as a mechanic, HVAC guy, and certain sports, especially water sports. Not everyone with an Auto has the intent of being a little gangbanger. For shame on the politicians. For shame.
All the things discussed here also fall under our Second Amendment Rights. Our Second Amendment says, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” The Second Amendment does not specifically state firearms but all arms and this can include the weapons listed on this website however it could be costly to test this in court. I think it would be hard for a jury to convict someone that protected themselves from an attacker by using a knife or other weapon.
I DON’T SEE ANY HARM,IN USING AN ASSISSTED OPENING KNIVE. I HAVE ARTHRITIS AND IT IS SO MUCH EASIER FOR ME TO OPEN.I USE IT MAINLY TO OPEN LETTER’S OR PACKAGE’S. IF THE MILITARY,AND LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND FIREFIGHTER’S CAN USE THEM, THEN WHY CAN’T THE REST OF THE CITIZEN’S. THE GANG BANGER’S CAN GET ANYTHING THEY WANT, AND USE GUN’S AND KNIVE’S ANYWAY THEY WANT. WHY
CAN’T I HAVE THE SAME TO MAKE MY LIFE EASIER.
You can use assisted open knives. Assisted open and switchblades are two different categories.
I have an assisted opening knife that has a 3 1/4 inch blade. Is this legal in Illinois? THANK YOU.
I read somewhere that it is legal to possess a switchblade in the state of illinois as long as the blade is under 3 inches, a hunting knife, and only useable while hunting. Would love to hear feedback on this.
a switchblade is not a hunting knife, it is an automatic knife, big difference
I just wanted to inquire about the laws. yes i understand all the different classes of illegal weapons, and i understand that any blade over 3″ is illegal to carry. I work for Cutco, the company that manufacters the KA-BAR knives for our military, and police forces worldwide. I was wondering If there are any licenses or permits i can apply for to carry a KA-BAR knife on my person. I do not have intent to harm anybody, It would be for security. There are a lot of nutcases out there, and i’m sure i’d be glad if i had a KA-BAR in one of those dangerous situations.
It seems that the carry limits are very unclear. In this article, we’re told that any knife can be carried as long as there is no intent to harm anyone. However, there is no clear statements about what can be concealed and blade length seems to be an issue. Obviously, it would seem a little unsettling to carry my 7″ KA-BAR openly. It may deter some attackers, but it would also frighten those who assume that merely having a knife signals intent. I think I’d be more comfortable having my knife tucked away under my coat where no one can see it, and therefore, prevent them from assuming the worst. I certainly don’t consider myself to be a violent person and I have no intention of harming anyone, but dropping to one’s knees and begging for mercy in the face of an attacker simply isn’t the Marine Corps way. I simply want to know that I can carry a tool in a not-so-nice part of Illinois without ending up in prison over weapons charges.
i openly carry my knife always, people will always “assume” the worst, if you are not threatening in any way, there should not be a problem.
Sully, find yourself a good S.O.G. boot knife at a sporting goods store – Bass Pro or Cabelas average price $25. A lot easier to handle than a heavy K-Bar
Why are switch blades illegal
Because if someone doesn’t have time to see that what you have is a knife, they could be ended very easily. Despite black markets, the deepweb, and underground weapon trading, they believe banning switchblades will reduce knife-related assaults and murders. They were kinda right, and kinda wrong.
What about a Karambit?
Kinda confused so can I carry concealed throwing knives that the blades are 5 inches in a public place that isnt a school or places like that as long as I have no intention of hurting someone
yes i believe that is correct
I just laughed really hard. Where are you going with concealed 5″ throwing knives? Lol
I’m confused… What AGE do you have to be to purchase a survival knife…?
You can buy it as soon as you of age to have a credit card (13/14+) I believe but you can’t necessarily carry it till you’re 18 because you need a weapons/firearm
licence
I have a 4 1/2 inch knive I wear on my side on my belt. Is that legal in Illinois. Not in Chicago. All I hear is that there is no limit to what size but then I hear only 3 inches is allowed. Weird
open carry on a suburban or city street with your knife is illegal in the woods its legal
To my comment a min ago I looked all over the net and still cant find any answers. It’s only 4 1/2 inches long. I’ve always carried it on my belt. But dont need to get that one officer ???? to say hey that’s a dangerous weapon. I’m not getting nothing as far as help looking on the net. Good thing I don’t live in Chicago, seems like they are strictly bad in that area. Plz help if you could plz
So are spring assisted knives legal?
Assisted open by spring are legal. Autos have spring. The knives in tobacco shops here,all spring assisted are legal. Your wording has me confused sir,all autos are assisted by use of spring. Thumb stud assisted,or flipper assisted,perfectly legal. I’m confused myself at authors use of “grey area” with stillettos, it’s not auto because I need to push a button?
How old do you have to be to carry a pocket knife ?
16 for a folding knife under 16 and 18 for anything over.
So if I carry one and the cops pull me over or stops me and finds it he can’t say anything right?
I suppose not as long your of age 16+ and it’s 3″
Thanks man I really needed to know
CUB SCOUTS carry folding pocket knives
Stilletto is a term for type of blade not type of knife. It means one fully sharpened side and other side or, spine of knife partially sharpened be it tip or close to hilt. Stilletto is not a term for automatic knife but for type of blade design.
If I get caught with a switchblade, how much is the fine or punishment?
OH i’m in Illinois.
Can I buy and store this
trench knife in my home?
question is why…
this knife looks like it includes knuckes, so it could reasonably be said that they are a type of brass knuckes. I would say don’t buy them to be on the safe side.
How old do u have to be to carry a balisong (butterfly) knife
there are no age restrictions on a sharpened blade weapon. if you can acquire it from a local store or internet site, learn how to use it & enjoy
is an OTF knife legal to carry ?
very much so….. it’s a push button
Is it illegal to carry a knife if you have commited a class a misdemenor?
yes, even if it was a battery charge…… the thing is WERE YOU CONVICTED & FOUND GUILTY
So if you carry a knife for self defense does that count as intent to harm? And secondly im still unsure on the limit of blade length allowed for a self defense knife please help
quick test of blade length place your open knife blade across your palm by your 1st knuckle. if the blade passes outside your palm width it’s considered deadly because the tip can reach the heart thru the
chest
So I have a 4inch blade that I carry on me in my pocket. It is a folding knife and I have it just for self defense. Is it then illegal to carry it even if I have “no intent to harm anyone”? Thanks
Folding knife is not illegal in and of itself as long as it is not a switchblade….length of blade is immaterial.
If you are in Illinois then yes it is illegal because of carrying blade limits. Doesn’t matter if you have intent when it breaks the length requirement
The only time the length of the knife blade is mentioned in the law is the section that defines the different “Categories” (1,2 and 3) of weapons. The definition allows the label of “Armed with a Dangerous Weapon” in the commission of a crime. It isn’t a crime in and of itself. It would be an aggravating factor if used in the commission of a crime. That being said, be reasonable and smart. Don’t carry a samurai sword around town and expect not to cause a panic and get confronted by police. People WILL call the police about it and the police will HAVE to investigate. Long story short, your knife is fine to carry.
“You can carry any knife you want as long as you do not have the intent to harm someone. “
I am bumping this, I would like to know as well. If I carry over a 3″ blade for chores and edc but am forced into using it in self defense against a savage dog or person trying to harm a family member or me, would using it like that and the fact that it is +3″ cause it to become an illegal knife?
So, when you use the knife for self defense, your intend to use the shiny part to blind them or something?
Usually you plan on defending yourself via harming the attacker…that’s why you carry a weapon in self defense.
In general, states that have the “with no intent to harm anyone” type clauses when asked it’s recommended you say that it is not carried for self-defense, but for utilitarian uses. The fact that you would probably use it in self-defense in extremis should not be mentioned. And if you do ever use it, again, you had it originally for utility purposes and you simply used it in self-defense because it happened to be on you for those other reasons. That is NOT why you were originally carrying it (wink, wink).
I would say it’s fine to have a 4inch blade. From what I saw any blade over 3inches is considered “a dangerous weapon” but a dangerous weapon is Legal as long as you’re not doing anything illegal with it.
(a) A person commits the offense of unlawful use of weapons when he knowingly:
(2) Carries or possesses with intent to use the same unlawfully against another, a dagger, dirk, billy, dangerous knife, razor, stiletto, broken bottle or other piece of glass, stun gun or taser or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument of like character; or.
– A 4inch blade is a “dangerous blade”
(a) Legislative findings. The legislature finds and declares the following:
(1) The use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a felony offense poses a much greater threat to the public health, safety, and general welfare, than when a weapon is not used in the commission of the offense.
(2) A Category I weapon is a handgun, sawed-off shotgun, sawed-off rifle, any other firearm small enough to be concealed upon the person, semiautomatic firearm, or machine gun. A Category II weapon is any other rifle, shotgun, spring gun, other firearm, stun gun or taser as defined in paragraph (a) of Section 24-1 of this Code [720 ILCS 5/24-1], knife with a blade of at least 3 inches in length, dagger, dirk, switchblade knife, stiletto, axe, hatchet, or other deadly or dangerous weapon or instrument of like character.
– Now while I’d say a 4inch blade is fine I’m no lawyer or anything so I may be wrong but I do believe that’s what the law was saying.
Hope this helped 🙂
Sounds to me like that’s legal to carry as long as you don’t intend to commit a crime.
The law also makes it illegal to open or concealed carry daggers, dirks, razors, stilettos, “dangerous knife,” and other similar dangerous weapons when you are attempting to harm someone else. You can also carry dirks, razors, daggers, stilettos, and “dangerous knives” all you want as long as you do not have the intent of harming another person.
You never should say you have a knife for self defense. You just made it a Weapon. Carry it for opening packages, making lunch, etc. Say the wrong thing to police and you will be arrested.
A lawyer could probably use your self defense intent as your intent to harm someone who attaches you, screwed up isn’t it.
ANYTHING ABOVE 3in blade is illegal to carry without a security clearance
Based on this article, it’s not illegal to carry, but due to the blade length, it is considered a dangerous weapon, which carries stiffer penalties if you should commit a crime with it. Is it illegal to carry? No. Could you find yourself in trouble if you use it in a self defense scenario? It depends on where you are in IL and the situation. If you inflicted bodily harm on someone using that “dangerous weapon” even in self defense, you will probably get arrested and then your fate will be up to a court to decide, much as it would if you had legally shot someone in self defense.
According to my interpretation, your knife does not fall into the banned weapons category, so you’re good. However, I always have to tell people that I’m not a lawyer and you can’t take my word as final. Only a licensed legal counsel in the state of Illinois can give you official council.
What if I I carried a railroad spike is that illegal
A railroad spike is not illegal to carry if you DO NOT have nefarious intent….
Why tf would you carry a rail road spike?
yes railrods are soposed to be bilt by chineses
Why would you need to carry a railroad spike?…
no it shouldnt be i have carried one before
Yea carry that spike up your ass that would be legal also
Only if it can be found (by a police officer or in a court of law) that your intent was to harm someone. Otherwise, you could argue that you found it and wanted to keep it as a collectible (antique) in your basement! Better yet, don’t mess with anything borderline. I say “stay far away from the edge of the cliff rather than seeing how close to the edge you can walk without falling”.
I have a karambit but I don’t know if it is illegal to carry around or not. I also do not have the intent to harm anyone. So can I carry it? Thanks.
@Mike: a knife with a 4 inch blade is, under IL law, a class I I weapon, and you are, therfore, armed with a dangerous weapon.
So technically open carrying a bigger knife such as a hunting knife is ok as long as I don’t have intent to harm and it’s sheathed? And it’s not technically a knife but if you have any idea where do machetes land in all of this?
I have a 4 inches long blade knife with sheath is that illegal where can I get a license for it in Illinois
Why does the other law pages say you can’t own a switchblade???? Who are u?
Are push knives illegal? The knives you just place between your fist, basically a knuckle or fist knife. Please answer. Thank yo..
what if a knife were to carry me? or what if I was a knife, is that legal?
What about private security
I have a butter knife, is ok to butter my bread, or will the over bloated gubboment come and arrest me?
So from what i read i am able to flip my balisong in public correct? I wanted to flip while i walk to the gym just i dont want to get my balisong taken away. Thanks!
That is flat out funny!????????????????
Can I carry a stadard folding pocket knife on a belt clip in plain view ? This is what I was looking for and couldn’t find a clear answer.
if your younger than 16 can you carry a ‘lipstick knife’ for self defense (i love in illinois in a safe area but once it gets dark out or your alone it can get a little sketchy and things have happened in my neighbourhood before where i don’t feel as safe as i would with out it but is it illegal for me to carry a lipstick knife or not?
So, I take it you can open carry a Bowie knife? You would think that would keep anyone with bad intent at bay.
I play csgo and want to get a Karambit that looks like one of the knives in the game for show. Am I allowed to have it
You may have an error on your website in regards to blade length. The paragraph in the Illinois criminal code 5.33 which discusses the 3″ blade length is the paragraph of the code discusses aggravated offenses. In other words committing a crime is bad but committing the same crime with a weapon is even worse. However the possession of the 3″+ blade in and of its’ self isn’t illegal.
You can carry a 10″ hunting blade if your intent is to hunt. The law always comes back to intent in regards to blades and other use of various weapons.
I have a sheathed knife that is just under 5 and a half inches and i am 16 years old is it illegal to conceal cary a knife that long at my age do I need some sort of permit? It is for self defense and outdoor purposes, also am I allowed to have it in my car
I’m 12 and I need to know if it is legal for me to carry a concealed boot knife for self defense. It is 5″ and I must know if I can.
It seems unclear. The law says I can’t own certain knifes. If I have a collection and some of my knives fit the description of the illegal ones, does that mean I’m breaking the law? If the knives never leave my home, is it illegal? I certainly don’t intend to harm anyone with my collection. Or even carry them on me… Just want to be certain whether or not I can own certain knives.
You can’t carry anything over 2.5″ in Chicago
Awesome information well summarized. Thank you. Just as an FYI and trying to help – Through is misspelled “threw” in the following text above –
“Category II dangerous weapons are daggers, dirks, switchblades, stilettos, axes, hatchets, knives with blades over 3 inches, and other similar weapons. Category III dangerous weapons are metal knuckles. However, the case of People v. Kohl in 2006 found that, just because a push knife that has two holes to put your fingers threw does not make it a metal knuckle. This is unlike some other states who have determined that knives with holes to place your knuckles threw do count as metal knuckles. Note that, in Kohl’s case, his push knife only had 2 holes. If your knife has more, it might still count as metal knuckles (think of WWI trench knives).”
best regards –
Andy Moon
Chief Instructor
Illinois Firearm Safety Academy LLC
Does it make a difference if the blade is fixed or folding? If its a fixed 3 inch blade with a 4 inch handle does that make it a 7″ knife now because its one continuous piece of metal? It says it is illegal to conceal a blade more than 2.5 inches long in the city of Chicago. What if I dont conceal it and carry it open on my belt, is it then considered legal as I am not concealing it?
OK, every weapon that I own is a category two, if I was to carry one of these weapons would I be charged with a felony, and if I were to conceal one of these would I be charged with a felony?
I’ve gone through all of this carefully, and my reading of the law is that there ARE restrictions state-wide on carrying a knife “with a blade of at least 3 inches in length”. By carrying “a knife with a blade of at least 3 inches in length”, you are considered “armed with a dangerous weapon” specifically a Category II weapon. Under “Limits on Storage and Possession”, “Unauthorized Possession or Storage of Weapons”:
(a) Whoever POSSESSES or stores any weapon enumerated in Section 33A-1 [720 ILCS 5/33A-1] IN ANY BUILDING OR ON LAND SUPPORTED IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITH PUBLIC FUNDS OR IN ANY BUILDING ON SUCH LAND WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE CHIEF SECURITY OFFICER FOR SUCH LAND OR BUILDING, COMMITS A CLASS A MISDEMEANOR.
While it does state that “The chief security officer must grant any reasonable request for permission under paragraph (a).”, this basically means that
1) ANY knife with A BLADE OF AT LEAST 3 INCHES IN LENGTH is enumerated as being a dangerous weapon in Section 33A-1 [720 ILCS 5/33A-1.
2) ANY BUILDING OR LAND supported in whole or IN PART with PUBLIC FUNDS. This means other than on completely private property (excluding private property supported by grants, subsidies, TIFs, etc.) you MUST GET WRITTEN PERMISSION from whoever is “in charge of security” for each and every property (by building if they have their own security) and also by each town, city, state agency, etc. whose property you wish to “carry” on. That effectively means “no” to the following:
Any public: buildings, housing projects, streets, sidewalks, parks, forest preserves, highways, buses or trains or their terminals, ANY schools or school-owned property (even private schools, including colleges), courthouses. There is also language that you cannot have these items within 1000 feet of schools and their property, courthouses, and housing projects. Some of those places are excluded under the written permission part, such as courthouses.
Nothing in this restriction involves intent. If you are carrying, and the blade is 3 inches or greater, you are considered to be armed with a dangerous weapon, and if you are carrying in any public place without written permission to be carrying in that specific public place, you are carrying illegally, which is considered a Class A misdemeanor.
A Class A misdemeanor offense is ranked as the most serious misdemeanor. It is one step below a felony offense. The judge is permitted to sentence the defendant to up to one year in jail and fine him $2,500. See 730 ILCS 5/5‑4.5‑55.Feb 13, 2011.
If you want to EDC a 3+ inch knife in Illinois I guess that’s your call. But from what I’ve read, it sure looks like you can get in serious trouble just for possession if you’re out in public. And there’s also no “concealed” language that I’ve seen. There’s nothing that says it’s okay to carry if it’s visible.
This is just my two cents worth. If you disagree, please read through the legalese and show me where I’m mistaken. For myself, having looked into this, for EDC, my knife blade of choice is going to be 2-7/8 inches.
Is an assisted knife counted as a switch blade
Would an out the front knife be considered a switch blade or no?
What is the max blade limitation
Im thinking of buying a karambit is it illeagal?
Are Assisted Opening Knives legal
Switchblades are now legal for valid FOID holders to possess and carry. SB607 was signed by Governor Rauner on 8/11/2017 and is now public act 100-0082. The act provides an exemption to the UUW statute that bans switchblades. The act, which is effective immediately can be found here:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocTypeID=SB&DocNum=607&GAID=14&SessionID=91&LegID=100589
Please change the information on this page to reflect the recent changes in Illinois law.
Illinois P.A. 100-0082 (8/11/17) legalizes the possession of a switchblade or automatic knife with a valid FOID card.
Its all about intent. The 4 inch blade is considered a dangerous weapon but can be carried as long as you don’t intend to harm others. The problem is that its all about perception too. I would recommend getting a shorter blade as it would cause less questions.
As far as the railroad spike is concerned, that’s a little trickier. Its not a standard thing to be carrying on your person so it would raise more questions unless you worked for the railroad or something. Its probably ok but I would recommend something a little more standard that would raise less questions.
Its also important to know the county and city ordinances. Chicago city proper for instance has much tighter rules as you would probably expect.
Effective August 11, 2017, the possession and carrying of automatic knives is legal for any citizens who possess a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card in Illinois. Public Act 100-0082 does not require a firearms concealed carry permit in order to possess and carry an automatic knife.
How about 27 in sword cane in the state of Illinois?
Automatic knives are now LEGAL in Illinois. The governor sign a bill into law just recently in August 2017. FINALLY
There is one caveat; Illinois residents MUST have a foid card(firearm owners ID card).. Stupid :yes, but remember this is Illinois.
Switchblades are now legal in Illinois for holders of a FOID card.
In Chicago the blade limit is 2.5″
This needs to be updated. Switchblade knives are now legal in Illinois if the person carrying it also has a FOID card.
FOID owners can now possess and carry Automatics/switchblades
As of 8/11/2017,
SB-0607 Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Provides an exemption from the prohibition on sale, manufacture, purchase, possession, or carrying of a switchblade knife to a person who possesses a currently valid Firearm Owner’s Identification Card previously issued in his or her name by the Department of State Police or to a person or an entity engaged in the business of selling or manufacturing switchblade knives. Effective immediately.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocTypeID=SB&DocNum=607&GAID=14&SessionID=91&LegID=100589
as of August,2017: Switchblades and other automatic knives are legal to carry with proof of the carrier’s ownership of a (FOID) Card, in the State of Illinois
Heads up – Chicago has different knife laws than the rest of Illinois, just something to note. Also, check recent legislation, automatic knives are now legal to carry with an FOID
On switchblades or automatic knives. On August 14, 2017, the Illinois general assembly: exempt are persons that possess a valid FOID card.
The majority of this article is outdated.
The legislation has changed radically.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=100-0082
Wait so balisongs are legal… So trainers are a-ok. If its legal. And trainers are not sharp. Schools shouldnt be freked out by it… Its a toy
Switchblades should actually be legal to carry now in Illinois as of late August 2017. The governor signed a bill repealing the switchblade ban. You do have to have a foid card to buy and carry them.
They have recently allowed FOID holders to possess switchblades.
Update: as of 2017 switchblade are now legal in Illinois for residents with valid Illinois FOID cards. So, buy away! Just watch out for Chicago as there is no state preemption.
You can find it under “exemptions” 720 ILCS 5-24-1 (e) 2
Update to reflect new switchblade van repeal please
Didn’t read whole page, so I might have missed it but as of August 2017, switchblade are legal as long as you have a FOID and are 21. I think that’s it but county’s can have additional restrictions to their discretion.
From my interpretation I could carry a roughly 6 inch military surplus bayonet as long as I don’t intend to harm anyone?
Why would you carry a railroad spike?
The Gov of Illinois just signed into law making it LEGAL to carry automatic or “swtchblades” as long as you have a FOID card. Signed into law in August 2017
i think Illinois has updated their laws..i believe automatic knives are legal now… you may want to check up on it
I see that your article says auto knives are illegal in Illinois. August of 2017 I believe that changed and they are now perfectly legal to own in the state of Illinois. Just an update. Would be worth looking into and updating your site.
Would OTF knifes legal in Illinois it says multiple times with valid foid card is this true
So there is no exception for handicapped people with say one hand or arm? Some states have recognized this as an exception to the ‘automatic’ knife restrictions.
Im a 16 year old is it legal for me to carry a 2 and a half inch blade in a forest preserve for uses of bushcraft in Illinois
Can i carry a 3.6 inch fixed blade knife
I have to look up what a ballistics knife is l never heard that tremallage before thank you for the information Michael
Does having a concealed carry permit allow you to carry an automatic knife?
Switchblade knives are legal to own and carry in Illinois if the owner possessed a vaild FOID card.
FOID card holders can now carry automatics
Please update, Illinois law has changed! It is now legal to own and carry a switchblade, with a concealed carry permit, of course.
This is old information. As of August, 2017, Switchblades are now legal in Illinois, if you carry a FOID card and are 21 or older. Please note that Chicago may be an exception, so be sure to check for Chicago-specific laws.
Anthony,
Though probably not expressly illegal to carry, a railroad spike has one use and one use only; railroads. Carrying one when you have no railroad-related business is probably going to look suspicious, and many times it’s up to the officer on the scene to discern weather or not you’re up to no good.
Additionally, it could easily be considered as a Billy club. Further, keep in mind that taking parts and pieces from railroads, even when they’re not attached to the rails yet, is often considered theft.
In short, it’s not always a good idea to do something just because nobody told you not to.
Illinois SB 607 repealed the ban on switchblade knives in Illinois on August 11th 2017. Your information is outdated, and inaccurate.
Are you allowed to carry or have in your possession an automatic knife if you currently have a valid FOID card
Could you please update this with the changes that have been made in regards to being able to carry an automatic knife when you possess a FOID card? Thank you.
Can I shoot someone with a knife
Could I carry a 3inch ankle knife?
Legally Yes, according to my interpretation of the law. HOWEVER, as always, don’t take my word as final authority. Only an actual lawyer or para-legal in the state of Illinois can confirm this.
You can have a switchblade if you have a valid FOID card.
with no ill intent just being a peaceful citizen could I carry a curved blade over 3″ like the spyderco Civillian?
or a less than 3″ curved like the spyderco Harpy? please and thankyou very much!
If you’re outside of Metro Chicago, you can pretty much carry anything. The question will be (if you are confronted with an officer) what is your intent, and as long as you can make a very good argument in favor of your peaceful intentions, you should be good. That’s my opinion – as always, only a licensed legal counsel in the state of Illinois can confirm anything official. cheers,
I live in SD where the knife laws are pretty much non existent. I open carry an 8 inch (The blade is 8 inches) Ka-Bar knife in a sheath on my hip. I’ve talked to many cops and they say there is no problem with it as long as I don’t have the intent to harm.
What I’m curious about is could I possibly open carry my Ka-Bar in illinois and if not, will I have to resort to one of my smaller foldable karambits.
I’m sorry I’m so confused. Ok I live in chicago can I open carry a knife and if so how long
Hey Ted;
Thanks for the question. Illinois is a tough state to summarize regarding knife laws since Chicago has its own set of rules to minimize urban violence. Keep in mind that I’m not allowed by law to give you official legal advice, so my disclaimer is that you need to get “official” advice from legal counsel in the state of Illinois. However, for what it’s worth, the ordinance is fairly clear when it comes to knives in Chicago. Essentially, you can’t have/own/carry/conceal any knife with a blade longer than 2 inches if you’re under 18. It also says;
No person shall carry concealed on or about his person a dagger, any knife with a blade more than two and one-half inches in length, or other dangerous weapon.
You can look up ordinance § 8-24-020 on Google and you can read through the whole thing (not too long or boring) which outlines lots of small points I can’t write here.
To make matters more confusing, there are even more local laws distinct from other “local” laws, like in Cook County. Sheesh! Let’s just simplify can we?!!
J.
I used to live in Chicago. I wised up and left. Not because of the crime. Because of the Democrats.
What about swords? I own a katana. And in all seriousness considered strapping it on when I go for my nightly walk. Purely for self defense. Hopefully more as a deterrent than actually needing to use (though I can). Is that considered ill intent (self defense)?. And is that length legal?
Hey Gina;
As always, we need to say we’re not lawyers and can’t give you official advice. You’d have to get that from a lawyer in Illinois. However, for what it’s worth, I’d say your situation is a bit touchy and a police officer who may find you with an actual sword, would surely question you. After you explain it’s for self-defense, he’d probably look at you strangely and wonder why you wouldn’t choose pepper spray or something much easier to use and more effective against one or more attackers. As far as the actual legality, in your shoes I would ask a local para-legal for advice on this matter since it may be close to the border of legal/illegal.
Save carrying that for the zombie apocalypse. Carrying that is more trouble than it’s worth. Kakushibuki are way more useful. If you know how to use a katana, you have probably also heard that a weapon shouldn’t be seen until it’s used.
Can you open carry a knife? In public? Over 3 inches?
I “open carry” a 6″ buck knife on my hip every where I go. I’ve been in bars where the police have come in, looked directly at my knife and have never said a word. I’ve open carried at high school football games as well as baseball games and basketball too. The only place I’ve been asked to remove it is at concerts, and once at a hospital… I was even able to carry it in our local minor league baseball game. I guess my question is, how long of a blade can I open carry?
I have an Illinois CCL and was wondering if I could also carry my Kabar. Six to one, half dozen to the other.
Did you not read the article? Anyone can carry any sized fixed blade, no matter if they have a CCL or not.
Can you carry in winnebago county Illinois and Rockford Illinois?
Hey Steve;
Thanks for the question! You can research state laws (as I do) on each state’s homepage where all the statutes are listed. It gets a bit confusing, but even more so when you consider local and regional laws within a state. Because I’m not a lawyer, I could get into some trouble if I actually gave you information without stating that I’m not a lawyer and you need to get your official info from a lawyer or paralegal in the state of Illinois. Having said all this, the answer to your question depends on what you’re carrying. A 3-inch pocket knife would never be in question as to its legality unless you try to hurt someone. Illinois knife laws are more bent towards determining someone’s motives in carrying a knife. If it doesn’t look like you’re trying to hurt anyone in a suspicious situation, then you should be okay (as I read the law). To be safe, I’d make the knife small and non-aggressive looking (ie. don’t carry a Ka-Bar military knife into a night club). That’s just my 2 cents.
cheers,
J.
I live in Illinois and was wondering if I can keep a fixed blade knife in my truck?
Hello, I’m wondering what I can do in my situation. I am 18 with a FOID under my dad who also has a FOID card. I’m wondering if I can carry an auto/switchblade in cook county? Also if I can in Chicago whenever I go there.
You would be under the requirements to conceal carry (At 18 years old you can’t Carry openly or concealed any weapon that would require a concealed carry permit)
-Must be at least 21 years
-Must have a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification card.
-Must have not been convicted or found guilty of a misdemeanor involving the threat of physical force or violence to any person within the past five years.
-Must not have two or more violations related to driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drugs or intoxicating compounds within the past five years.
-Must not be subject to a pending arrest warrant, prosecution or proceeding for an offense or action that could lead to disqualification to own or possess a firearm.
-Must have not been in a residential or court-ordered treatment for
alcoholism
, alcohol detoxification, or drug treatment within the past five years.
-No objections are filed by law enforcement.
Checklist prior to applying for an Illinois Concealed Carry License for Illinois Residents
-16 hours of Concealed Carry firearms training provided by an Illinois State Police-approved instructor.
-Electronic copy of training certificate(s).
-An Illinois Digital I.D. (can be obtained through link on ccl4illinois.com)
-A valid driver’s license or state identification card.
-A valid FOID card.
-Proof of the last 10 years of residency.
-$150.00 payable with a credit card or electronic check.
Source: Illinois State Police website
What about a Kershaw Launch 4 in IL and Chicago . Seems like it’s a bit of a gray area…
Yes I have the same question as Jeff. I would like to carry that same knife in Chicago. Is this ok?
Did you or did you not read article? The Launch 4 is California legsl. So, so long you have a FOID, your cool
What would I have to do to carry a sword in public? Is there any way at all to accomplish that legally?
In most states it comes down to “intention” or “appearance of intention”. I know in many states you can’t do that and the Police won’t even allow swords in your car unless you’re a collector or re-enactor just transporting a sword, and even then it has to be wrapped and packed in a certain way. It just looks to the public like you could be up to no good if you have a deadly weapon (which was designed to eradicate human life) in public, so I’d stay away from flirting with the law.
Just my thoughts…
cheers,
J.
No way. No how. If you’re not arrested on the spot, you’ll be causing all sorts of commotion and calls to the police. A open carry hunting knife may slide in some areas of Illinois, but a sword? NO WAY!
So like most ,people in Illinois , i remain a bit confused on the law. I wish to carry a hunting knife with a blade of 6 inches or more not only while hunting but outside on private property and sometimes while walking park trails where we walk our dog. Not near any schools not in Chicago or any suburb near there, but in small town Illinois. Legal ? 6 inch blade, 10 inch bowie?… I do not carry inside any store , or wear on my belt/hip while driving ,but it would be in my truck. Like most folks i have talked to we really just do not know if this is illegal or legal….who knows for sure?
I live in Illinois as well. I was wondering about a Machete. A souvenir from Haiti that’s in a sheath?
I have a Microtech – Ultratech. Its an automatic OTF knife with a 3 and half inch blade.
I have my foid card and live in IL, far from Chicago, (down by St Louis), but not sure if the blade length will get it confiscated or not.
Why can’t we get clarification from anyone? It has been awhile since switchblades were made legal to carry in IL, yet no one can tell us if it is now legal to conceal carry a blade longer than 3″, with a FOID Card/CCW license. I’ve even asked the Illinois State Rifle Assoc. and they seem to have no answer.
I have a otf Microtech Ultratech also, mine is the small utx70. I have asked three police officers whether carrying it is legal or not. Two of them had no idea it is now legal to carry switchblades. The other police officer said legal or not, he’ll arrest any “questionable or suspicious” individual carrying anything other than what he considers a standard folding pocket knife. He said he’ll make the arrest and let the court decide if the individual had intent to harm. Does that answer your question? LOL just be careful, this is IL we live in.
I have a “Buck” #112 ranger that I bought on eBay. The measurement from the ” hilt” to the tip is under 2 and 3/4 inch.Its a beautiful knife with a black case that slips on your belt. I use it to cut parcels open that I get from Amazon and ebay.Also to use on hard to open grocery store products. Also where I live ,I walk to a bar,so I dont drink and drive. The neighborhood is changing and one morning I spotted a loose pitbul. You figure out the rest. Also, lots of coyote sightings in area.
One may carry a knife as long as there is “no intent” to harm another person. I carry a knife in my belt for Self-Protection (rather than carrying a gun). I would have no intention of harming anyone – unless I were defending myself. Thus, would it be construed that I’m carrying a knife for the purpose of harming another?
Hmmm… not sure I buy that. Self-defense does not mean you’ll harm someone any more than an armed police officer WILL use his gun for sure to shoot someone. It’s always a good idea to NOT look like a victim and help offer an incentive for bad people to stay away from you! Man up and help defend yourself, other helpless victims around you and ultimately, your community.
Tell them you carry it for everyday things. Work, hunting, opening mail. DO NOT ever say you’re carrying it for self defense you will be charged and arrested
It’s simple… When you carry a knife regularly, use it as a TOOL as you can; opening boxes, cutting rope, tape, etc. If you can show that you use it primarily as a tool it will be hard to prove carrying it for harmful intent should you have to use it in self defense. A gun though legal to carry with a concealed carry permit would be much harder to defend should you ever need to fire it at another. But obviously a gun would be more effective in warding off an attack if you have enough time and space to do so safely. Sadly, there are no stats on how many times a gun has stopped an attack or other crimes without firing a shot.
Does this law with knives apply the same to firearms as it pertains to non-residents? I have a carry permit from another state and I am allowed to have my firearm in my vehicle concealed when I am in Illinois. Does this carry over to knives as well????
You best have an Illinois FOID. A ID from another state is not valid in cash-strapped Illinois.
Chicago Suburban w/ LMF II, travel to and fro on Metra – I’d rather be alive and wrong, than dead and right. Screw the law!
Yes – I totally agree. I ride the Metra too, and if I had to defend my life, I would rather be defending myself in court instead of hoping the court system would “make my death right” trying to convict a criminal assailant while I’m 6 feet under.
(just make sure you are well concealed when riding the Metra & CTA)
Better to be judged by twelve than carried by six.
Can you modify a knife by covering part of the sharpened blade to effectively make it “under 3 inches”? Or is the official length of a blade any part that extends past the guard/hilt/handle out to the tip? I want to get a knife that is longer than 3 inches and assume I could cover part of the blade with griptape to effectively shorten the overall “actively sharp” part of the blade. Anyone know how exactly this would work, legally speaking?
A knife of any kind (in IL) is measured from the “hilt”. You can NOT use any artifice or creative argument to change the length of a knife. The hilt is where the factory handle ends and the measurement from the tip to the hilt must be less than 3 inches.
Changing or fabricating non-factory grips will likely still end up with a conviction for a longer than 3″ blade. It’s not like changing the grips on a gun. Read the case below from the Appellate Court website:
https://courts.illinois.gov/opinions/AppellateCourt/2013/1stDistrict/1110707.pdf
I’m not a paid spokesman or advertiser for Smith & Wesson but I live in Illinois and carry their model CK117B which is 2.93″ long from the hilt. It will always measure less than 3″ and they are not very expensive. You can buy on eBay from $15 to $19. Note however that this is a thumb assisted, not a spring assisted knife.
A) Can someone clarify the legal length? Am I reading this correctly that the knife blade is illegal to carry if it is “three inches or more”? Meaning that a wide variety of knives that are listed as “three inches” are illegal? So a legal carry knife must absolutely be fully and completely under the three inch mark? And so the longest possible blade length you can carry would be something along the lines of “2.9 inches” or “2.9999999 inches” long? Am I getting that right?
B) Also, I just looked at a review video of the Coldsteel Tigerclaw on Youtube and the reviewer pointed out that the stated length on the packaging was 3.0 inches but that “wouldn’t stand up in a court of law” because the length when measured from hilt to point was longer than three inches. It looked like the way Coldsteel got to that measurement was by measuring a straight line from the hilt and along the spine so the distal 3.0 inch mark was actually off the blade with the curve leading down away from the ruler. Is there anything that can be said about this? Does “factory stated length” bear any weight in the determination of length regarding the legal definitions available to us?
Any thoughts on the Cold Steel Double Agent? It is stated as being 3.0″, comes in several blade types with a neck knife sheath but has two retention rings (one for the index finger and one for the pinky finger). There’s some conjecture about “more than one” retention rings being construed as “knuckles” if under the context of direct legal scrutiny. Would these be problematic in that sense to carry or does “three inches (and under???)” cover all the bases. Does the “certain grip from two retention rings” imply it might be construed as a stabbing weapon (ie: a “weapon for inflicting harm”) thereby baking in intention of use or can we expect a less subjective reading of how the knife is defined and be able to rely upon the objective standards stated in the definition?
In short, is that particular knife line Illinois legal?
In light of all that, would a one-retention-ring design be legally “safer” to carry? (ex: SOG Survival karambit, also only 2.58″ fixed blade, but some “intent to harm” backpedaling that could be argued in court with a design element of a “happy skull” printed on the sheathclip…is that a risk too? If the knife has some goofy “badass” graphic on it or even if the brand names it something ridiculous that gives an air of being used for causing physical harm, either explicit or poetic?)
Can the mere fact that you were carrying a knife be considered “implied intent to harm” if any number of under-3-inch tools are used to defend oneself and causing a severe physical consequence against the attacker you defended yourself against thus making the legal punishment harsher? Or does the context of self defense cover you? I imagine you could do a lot of damage to an attacker with something within legal definition (or no weapon at all, or a makeshift implement off the street) and be in deeper waters depending on the amount of harm done to the attacker than if you were to cause severe harm with a 3.1″ blade?
Three inches is measured from the tip to the handle (ie. the “hilt”)
https://courts.illinois.gov/opinions/AppellateCourt/2013/1stDistrict/1110707.pdf
But is 3-inches-on-the-mark illegal? Meaning the blade must be UNDER 3.0″? Or is 3.0″ legal? I think an answer to that would clarify all the other scrabble.
As of January 28, 2020 SB2535 (Repeal of the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act. Amends various Acts to make
conforming changes. Effective immediately) was introduced into the Illinois General Assembly. If anybody would like to
read up on SB2535 here is the web address https://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/1186769. Not sure what will happen
with switchblade & auto knives in Illinois when or if it passes. Hoping switchblade & auto knives will be made legal
after FOID card act is repealed
Illinois knife laws are a confusing mess but these are a general guideline you should follow.
To carry on any public-funded property knife lengths need to be 3 inches or less. You can, however, own knives longer than that just stay off those properties.
Throwing, Ballistic and Automatic knives are illegal to own at any time.
It’s explained here and as of the last update in 2018 nothing has really changed in those regards. https://hobanco.com/blogs/news/illinois-knife-laws