The laws governing the carrying and usage of pocket knives in Tennessee are often subject to misconceptions and misunderstandings. This article aims to demystify these regulations, ensuring that residents and visitors alike are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities when it comes to pocket knives in the Volunteer State.
Legal Ownership of Various Knife Types
In Tennessee, the laws concerning knife ownership are remarkably unrestricted. The state permits the legal ownership of a diverse range of knives, including automatic, ballistic, switchblade, butterfly, and “assisted opening” knives. This inclusive approach signifies that individuals in Tennessee can own and carry a variety of knives without concern for specific type-based restrictions.
Blade Length Regulations and Carry Freedom
A pivotal change occurred in Tennessee’s knife laws in 2014, which saw the elimination of restrictions on knife-blade length. Previously, the state had prohibited the open or concealed carrying of knives with blades longer than four inches. However, post-2014, individuals are free to carry knives of any length, a move that reflects Tennessee’s liberal stance on knife regulations.