Actually I was not Kidding.
If You check--Including Michigan--there is no stated length of blade for Carrying a knife.
Most of those misconceptions are just fostered by lack of knowledge of the actual laws.
Most state laws that pertain to knives rely on Intent.
If you are stopped with a wicked looking black death tactical folder or fixed blade knife you are far more likely to be detained or looked at with suspicion than if you are carrying a very well made high quality knife.
That is a fact--if is not a Guess on my part.
I have testified is Local--State and even Federal Courts - as well as U.S. Customs and Congressional hearings as an expert witness in cases involving knives. I have testified for both the prosecution and defense on different occasions so I just might know what I'm talking about.
Some one Above mentioned the California Statues be oppressive.
They are referring to 120-20 of the California penal Code that pertains to the Definition of a Weapon.
Did You know that a Pencil in Your jacket Pocket under that section of the law becomes a Dagger as soon as you show "INTENT" to use it as such ?
Nice folks that carry a knife in their pocket for genuine utility use or to cut steaks in a restaurants are pretty safe from laws that are written to use in criminal situations.
I rarely Kid about the law.
I know it pretty well.
Mike
Michigan -750.226... Carrying with unlawful intent
Any person who, with intent to use the same unlawfully
against the person of another, goes armed with a pistol
or other firearm or dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto,
or
knife having a blade over 3 inches in length, or any
other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument, shall
be guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment in
the state prison for not more than 5 years or by a fine
of not more than 2,500 dollars.
- 750.227. (1) A person shall not carry a dagger, dirk,
stiletto, a double-edged nonfolding stabbing instrument of
any length, or any dangerous weapon,
except a hunting
knife adapted and carried as such, concealed on or about
his or her person, or whether concealed or otherwise in
any vehicle... except in his or her dwelling house [or]
place of business... (3) A person who violates this
section is guilty of a felony...
thats michigan law..period.
Congradulations on your testimony, but your missing the point.
Initial contact with law enforcement will leave you charged if they investigate a complaint that there's a "person with a weapon", and you are found in violation of the law.
While you can go out, and hire a lawyer. and spend time and alot of money proving your innocence in court it a hell of alot easier just to follow the letter of the law.
Ask most police, and this is exactly what their going to tell you. Add the context of this discussion..you have "Mr.Biker" carrying a large knife and it simply doesn't add up to a happy ending.
Law enforcement simply don't have the "officer discretion" that the did 20 years ago.
BTW, I know the law pretty well also..
"If You check--Including Michigan--there is no stated length of blade for Carrying a knife.
Most of those misconceptions are just fostered by lack of knowledge of the actual laws"
I suggest you read it, before calling someone else ignorant.