Legal Definition of a Bowie Knife

TDFbound said:
I tried posting this in the legal and laws section, but not many people go there. What is the legal definition of a bowie knife? Everything I have found indicates that it must possess a sharpened, concave-profiled clip point and a full cross guard, or hand guard.
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Hi.

"Legal definition" will vary GREATLY and may well be left up to the arresting officer and DA to define. These terms are undefined or vaguely defined for that reason. Basically, ANY single edged knife over 5" in length -- including kitchen knives -- will meet the legal definition of "Bowie knife" in many municipalities. If you are arrested and wish to protest an incorrect and unfair definition in court you will be setting a legal precedent. If you don't have at least 15 grand to spend on legal fees good luck with that. DA and judge will probably give you a choice to either plead to a lesser charge or go to trial with it. If you lose at trial, expect to go to prison, probably for the maximum allowable sentence. Don't risk it. Read your state's laws carefully. If Bowie knife is undefined, that means they can call almost anything they want a Bowie knife. Some states do allow you to carry a Bowie with a valid CCW permit, so you should check into that ad well. Open carry may also be permitted.
 
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