Microtech Enthusiasts, Know Your Laws
Disclaimer: The following is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Knife laws are complex, subject to change, and vary by state and locality. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, visit the American Knife and Tool Institute (AKTI) at akti.org.
Owning an out-the-front (OTF) knife means navigating a legal maze. Laws differ by state, and local regulations can further impact legality. Here’s a general breakdown of where things stand.
State-by-State Overview
Texas allows OTFs up to 5.5 inches, whether concealed or open. Anything longer is a “location-restricted knife,” banned in schools, courts, and bars with heavy liquor sales.
California strictly limits OTFs over 2 inches in public spaces or vehicles, unless openly sheathed for utility. Some urban areas, like Los Angeles and San Francisco, cap blade length at 3 inches total.
New York bans OTFs and all switchblades outright. In New York City, possession alone could lead to jail time, with zero tolerance for violations.
Arizona takes the opposite approach, allowing unrestricted OTF carry—concealed or open, any length.
Michigan finds a middle ground: single-edged OTFs can be concealed if there’s no malicious intent, while double-edged blades require open carry. Rural sheriffs may be lenient, but city law enforcement tends to scrutinize more closely.
Folding and Fixed Blades
Folding knives face fewer restrictions. Most states allow concealed carry for blades between 3 to 4 inches. California limits non-locking folders to 2 inches, while Texas allows up to 5.5 inches. Open carry rarely draws restrictions.
Fixed blades are generally legal when openly sheathed—Arizona and Texas impose no maximum length. But concealed carry laws tighten: Colorado caps at 3.5 inches, California prohibits concealed carry unless the blade is short and non-locking, and Georgia enforces a permit-free limit of 5 inches (or 12 inches with a license).
Local Laws & Federal Restrictions
Local laws can override state rules. New York City enforces a 4-inch limit, regardless of state law. Chicago and Los Angeles impose additional blade-length bans.
Intent also matters. An OTF in a toolbox might be seen as a tool, while carrying one on a dark street could classify it as a weapon. Enforcement varies—rural officers might be more lenient, while urban patrols are often stricter.
Federal law adds another layer. The 1958 Switchblade Act prohibits interstate transport of OTF knives, though individual state carry laws take precedence.
Stay Informed
Knife laws change frequently. Massachusetts lifted all knife restrictions in 2024, while other states continue to tighten regulations. Avoid fines, confiscation, or worse by staying updated.
For the most current laws and regulations, visit the American Knife and Tool Institute (AKTI) at akti.org. Before carrying your Microtech, check AKTI for the latest legal updates.