Understanding Ohio Law on Pocket Knives: Key Facts for Residents

Thedailymiaminews– Ohio’s knife rules have changed a lot lately, making it easier for people to carry and use knives in their daily lives. The latest update to these rules was with Senate Bill 140, which started on April 10, 2021.

This bill has made knife rules in the state clearer and more relaxed. It gives knife owners more freedom while still keeping the public safe.

Legal Types of Knives in Ohio

In Ohio, you can now legally own and have most kinds of knives. This includes:

  • Pocket knives
  • Utility knives
  • Hunting knives
  • Folding knives
  • Automatic knives (switchblades)
  • Fixed blade knives
  • Bowie knives

The state has no rules about knife blade length, so you can officially own knives of different sizes.

Carrying Laws

Open Carry

In Ohio, it’s usually allowed to carry knives openly. This means you can openly carry any kind of legal knife without many limits.

Concealed Carry

Senate Bill 140 has made it easier to carry knives secretly. The new law says that knives are only seen as weapons if they are used that way. This means you can carry a hidden knife without worrying about breaking the law, as long as you don’t use it to hurt anyone.

Senate Bill 140 and What It Means

Senate Bill 140 has made some important updates to Ohio’s knife laws:

  • It took knives out of the default list of “deadly weapons.”
  • It made it legal to make and sell automatic knives (switchblades) in Ohio.
  • It explained that it’s not against the law to keep a hidden knife unless you use it as a weapon.
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These changes have greatly lowered the chance of legal issues for knife users who carry their knives for practical use or self-defense.

Limits and Things to Keep in Mind

Ohio’s knife laws are less strict now, but there are still key rules to remember:

  • Knives are still not allowed in places like schools and courthouses.
  • Local areas may have extra rules about knives, but a law stops them from making these rules tougher than the main law.
  • Using a knife as a weapon can lead to legal problems, like being charged for having a hidden weapon.

Summary

Ohio’s knife rules are now easier to understand and more relaxed after the passing of Senate Bill 140. Residents can now keep many types of knives, both visible and hidden, without worrying about breaking the law, as long as they use them safely.

Remember that knives can be seen as weapons if used that way, and there are rules about them in some places. It’s important to use and take care of tools safely to protect yourself and others.

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