Knives have played a significant role in Georgia’s history. From their use in early agriculture and hunting to their place in modern-day trades and hobbies, knives remain a valuable tool for many Georgians. However, understanding the laws surrounding knife ownership and carry is crucial for safety and responsible use. Georgia follows a set of regulations that outline your rights as a knife owner, and this guide aims to provide clear information on what you need to know.
Ownership of Knives in Georgia
This Article Includes
Georgia adopts a permissive approach to knife ownership. There are virtually no restrictions on what types of knives you can own within the state. This applies to blade length, design, opening mechanism, or intended use. Whether you collect folding knives, switchblades, throwing knives, or any other variety, Georgia law does not prevent you from owning them. However, it’s important to note that certain knives, such as ballistic knives, may fall under federal restrictions.
Carrying Knives in Georgia
While knife ownership is largely unrestricted in Georgia, there are regulations surrounding how you can carry them. These laws underwent changes in 2017 with House Bill 218, which significantly increased the legal blade length for carrying knives without a permit. Here’s the breakdown:
- Knives Less Than 12 Inches: You are legally permitted to carry knives with a blade length of 12 inches or less without a special permit. This applies to both open carry (the knife is visible) and concealed carry (the knife is hidden from view).
- Knives More Than 12 Inches: If you wish to carry a knife with a blade length exceeding 12 inches, you will need a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL). Obtaining a WCL involves a background check, fingerprinting, and may require training courses. Once you have a WCL, there are no further blade length restrictions for knife carry.
- Local Restrictions: Georgia has a knife preemption law which prevents counties and municipalities from enacting stricter knife regulations than those set by the state. However, certain locations, such as schools, courthouses, and some government buildings, may still have specific restrictions on knives. It is always advisable to check with local authorities if you have questions about carrying knives in a particular place.
Specific Knife Types and Legality
- Folding Knives: Folding knives are among the most common types of knives, and they are legal to own and carry in Georgia, regardless of size. When determining legality with a folding knife, Georgia law measures blade length when the knife is closed.
- Switchblades: Contrary to some misconceptions, switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in Georgia. Like other knives, they fall under the same blade length restrictions for carrying.
- Throwing Knives and Ballistic Knives: Georgia places no restrictions on owning or carrying throwing knives. Ballistic knives, however, are illegal at the federal level and should not be owned or carried.
Additional Considerations
- Criminal Background: Your criminal history may impact your right to carry certain knives in Georgia. Those with felony convictions or individuals subject to a domestic violence restraining order could face limitations. It is strongly advised to consult with an attorney to fully understand how your background may affect your knife rights.
- Age Restrictions: To protect minors, Georgia law prohibits anyone under the age of 12 from possessing a knife with a blade exceeding 3 inches.
Conclusion
Georgia maintains reasonably permissive knife laws, emphasizing responsible ownership and carry. Remember to always handle knives with caution, store them safely, and be aware of the legal boundaries. This guide is not a substitute for professional legal advice. If you have specific questions or concerns, especially those related to unique circumstances, it’s best to consult with an attorney specializing in Georgia knife laws. Stay informed about any potential changes or updates to legislation that might affect your knife rights in the future.
Sources
- Official Georgia State Law website (https://georgia.gov/)
- Knife Rights Association website (https://kniferights.org/)