In Tennessee, as in many states, laws regarding knives can be complex and vary depending on the type of knife and how it’s used. For people who enjoy outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, or camping, as well as those who carry knives for self-defense or work purposes, it’s important to understand what is legal and what is not.
This guide will help you understand your knife rights in Tennessee, explaining the laws about carrying, selling, and using knives in the state.
Tennessee Knife Laws: What You Need to Know
Tennessee law allows residents to own a wide variety of knives, but there are certain restrictions and regulations that you need to be aware of. The laws focus mainly on where and how knives can be carried, as well as the types of knives that are legal.
Types of Knives You Can Own in Tennessee
In Tennessee, you are allowed to own many different types of knives, including:
Folding knives: These are knives with blades that fold into the handle, making them easy to carry and conceal.
Fixed-blade knives: These knives have blades that are permanently fixed into the handle.
Automatic knives (switchblades): While legal under federal law, Tennessee allows the possession and carry of automatic knives, though there are specific rules for carrying them in public.
Carrying Knives in Tennessee: The Law
The legality of carrying a knife in Tennessee depends on the type of knife, where you’re carrying it, and the intended purpose. Here are the key rules to keep in mind:
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
Open Carry: You can carry most knives openly in Tennessee. There are no specific laws that prohibit open carry of a knife, as long as the knife is not considered a dangerous weapon.
Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of knives is subject to specific rules. You can carry a concealed knife, but it must be a folding knife. Fixed-blade knives, automatic knives, or any other larger knives should not be carried concealed without a proper permit.
Schools and Government Buildings
Schools: It is illegal to carry a knife on school property in Tennessee, even if you have a concealed carry permit. Carrying a knife on school grounds can result in severe penalties.
Government Buildings: Similarly, knives are prohibited in government buildings, including courthouses, unless you are authorized to carry one, such as for certain work-related purposes.
Laws on Automatic Knives
In Tennessee, automatic knives (switchblades) are legal to own and carry. However, there are some restrictions on carrying these knives. For example, it may be illegal to carry them if you are convicted of a felony or if you are carrying the knife with intent to commit a crime.
Laws for Minors
In Tennessee, minors (under the age of 18) are generally prohibited from purchasing or carrying knives. However, exceptions exist for knives used for activities like hunting, fishing, or other outdoor sports, provided they are used appropriately and safely under the supervision of an adult.
Use of Knives: Self-Defense and Other Situations
In Tennessee, the use of knives is generally legal if they are used in self-defense, but the key factor is that the knife must be used in a reasonable and appropriate way. If you use a knife in a manner that is considered excessive or not in self-defense, you could face criminal charges.
The law recognizes the right to self-defense, but it’s important to remember that self-defense must be proportional to the threat you face. If you use a knife in a situation where it isn’t necessary, it could result in charges of assault or worse.
Knife Sales and Transfers in Tennessee
Selling, gifting, or transferring knives in Tennessee is legal, but there are certain restrictions when it comes to selling knives to minors. Sellers must ensure that knives are not being sold to individuals who are under 18 years old.
Additionally, certain types of knives, like switchblades or other automatic knives, may have additional restrictions on who they can be sold to.
Preemption of Local Knife Laws
Tennessee has a state law that preempts (overrides) any local city or county ordinances that would restrict the possession or carrying of knives.
This means that cities or counties in Tennessee cannot make their own laws that are more restrictive than state laws regarding knives. However, they can regulate where knives can be carried in certain places, like public buildings or parks.
Understanding knife laws in Tennessee is essential for anyone who carries or uses knives. While you have the right to own and carry knives, there are rules you must follow, especially regarding concealed carry, schools, and government buildings.
By staying informed about the specific laws in your area, you can ensure that you are within your legal rights while using knives in Tennessee.
