Tennessee has relatively permissive laws regarding knife ownership and carrying. Here’s a comprehensive overview of your knife rights in the state:
General Knife Ownership and Carrying Laws
- Types of Knives: In Tennessee, it is legal to own and carry various types of knives, including automatic knives (switchblades), ballistic knives, butterfly knives, and assisted-opening knives. There are no restrictions on blade length for these knives.
- Open vs. Concealed Carry: Tennessee does not differentiate between open and concealed carry of knives. You can carry any type of knife openly or concealed without a permit, except in specific restricted areas.
Specific Restrictions
- School Grounds: It is illegal to carry any knife on school property, which includes public and private schools from K-12 through university levels. Violating this law can lead to serious consequences, including felony charges.
- Weapons-Free Zones: Carrying knives in designated weapons-free zones (such as government buildings) is prohibited. This includes places where the intent to go armed could lead to legal issues.
Legal Consequences
- Penalties for Violations: Carrying a knife in violation of Tennessee law can result in significant penalties. For instance, possessing a knife on school grounds can lead to a Class E felony charge, which may involve up to six years in prison and fines reaching $6,000.
- Intent to Arm: The law considers the “intent to go armed” when assessing violations. This means that carrying a knife with the purpose of using it as a weapon can lead to harsher penalties.
Recent Legislative Changes
- Knife Rights Legislation: Recent legislative efforts have aimed at reforming knife laws in Tennessee. Notably, a bill was signed in 2023 allowing adults to carry pocket knives while voting on school grounds during election days, reflecting the state’s evolving stance towards knife rights.
Conclusion
Tennessee offers broad rights regarding knife ownership and carrying, but individuals must remain aware of specific restrictions, particularly concerning schools and other designated areas. Understanding these laws is crucial for compliance and avoiding legal issues. Always stay informed about any changes in legislation that may affect your rights as a knife owner in Tennessee.
SOURCES:-
- https://mrbailinc.com/legal-aspects-of-owning-and-carrying-a-knife-in-tennessee/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-tennessee-a-guide-to-legal-carry-and-use/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/tn-knife-carry-at-polls-bill-signed-by-governor/
