Can I Carry A Bowie Knife in Public?

Considering the leniency of America's weapons laws, it might seem like a no-brainer that you can carry that new Bowie knife out in public. However, before you head out the door, you should stop and check your state's laws governing knife carrying in public. While Bowie knives might not be mentioned specifically, you'll find that there are rules governing blade length and method of carry for all knives and some knives are excluded almost universally. You'll find that quite a few states take a dim view of butterfly knives (balisongs), as well as switchblades and other automatic knives. Bowie knives are no exception to this rule.

As an example of the laws governing knife carry in the US, let's look at the state of Colorado. This state allows pocketknives to be carried both openly and concealed, so long as they have a blade shorter than 3 and 1/2 inches in length. They also allow fixed blade knifes and dirks/daggers, so long as the blade is shorter than 3 and 1/2 inches. Of course, your Bowie knife is likely a bit longer than this, as the blade should be at least 6 inches long to qualify as a Bowie. Therefore, you cannot carry your Bowie knife in public within Colorado, whether concealed or in the open.

Another example of the great disparity between state laws concerning knives is Arizona, in this state, you can carry any type of knife openly, including Bowie knives and even automatic knives. However, they have to be worn outside of your clothing and sheathed, unless it is a small pocketknife.

In addition, you'll find that Arizona lets individual cities and towns create their own laws governing what knives can be carried and how they can be carried legally. Therefore, should you travel from Flagstaff to Tucson, you might find that your knife is not legal. Check ahead to avoid legal problems.

Remember, though, it is illegal to carry any sort of weapons into a school, into a bar or club, or into a courthouse. Of course, there are other areas where carrying a weapon is prohibited, but these usually vary by state law, as well.