are swiss army knives legal in the uk
In the UK, the legality of carrying a Swiss Army knife is governed by the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and the Offensive Weapons Act 2019.
General rule:
It is generally legal to own and use a Swiss Army knife in the UK, but there are some restrictions on carrying them in public.
Restrictions:
If the blade of the Swiss Army knife is 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less in length, it is considered a "folding pocket knife" and is generally allowed to be carried in public. However, if the blade is longer than 3 inches, it is considered a "fixed blade knife" or a "large folding pocket knife" and is subject to certain restrictions.
Locking mechanism:
If the Swiss Army knife has a locking mechanism that allows the blade to be locked in place, it is considered a "locking knife" and is subject to the same restrictions as a fixed blade knife, regardless of the blade length.
Public carry:
To carry a Swiss Army knife in public, you must have a "good reason" or "lawful authority" to do so. This means that you can carry a Swiss Army knife if:
- You are using it for a legitimate purpose, such as for work, camping, or outdoor activities.
- You are a member of a recognized outdoor or sporting organization.
- You are carrying it as part of a collection or for display purposes.
Exceptions:
Some types of Swiss Army knives are exempt from these restrictions, including:
- Knives with a blade length of 3 inches or less that are designed for folding and do not have a locking mechanism.
- Knives that are specifically designed for use as a tool, such as a multi-tool or a pocket knife with a small blade.
Consequences of carrying an illegal knife:
If you are caught carrying a Swiss Army knife in public without a good reason or lawful authority, you could face a fine of up to £1,000 or imprisonment for up to 6 months.
Summary:
In summary, Swiss Army knives with a blade length of 3 inches or less and without a locking mechanism are generally allowed to be carried in public in the UK. However, it’s always best to check with the authorities or seek advice from a qualified lawyer if you are unsure about the specific laws and regulations in your area.
