Quote:
Originally Posted by libertarian
I may be mistaken, but I remember hearing that there IS case law where someone was arrested for wearing 'openly' a fixed-blade knife that was inadvertently concealed by his shirt. I'm pretty sure he gave them some other reason to arrest him, but that conviction was upheld, if I'm remembering correctly.
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The case I read, which is a Supreme Court case, had slightly different facts. The police claimed defendant had his shirt out, that the shirt covered his pocket, and sticking out of the pocket was a "dirk or dagger" [it seems that it was originally a letter opener]. Defendant claimed his shirt was tucked in. In any event, the rule is that if the dirk or dagger is "substantially concealed" ther is a violation. For reference, the same case defines dirk or dagger as a fixed bladed knife or a folding knife in an open and locked condition that is "readily available for use as a stabbing weapon." Remember, as the article says, folding knives in the paocket are legal, as they are not "readily available," and all unconcealed weapons are legal, even if a dirk or dagger, as long as it is unconcealed, or in a scabbard or sheath.
So get yourself a good short sword and you're all set! (Swords are damned difficult to conceal.)