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Knife laws in Georgia underwent a revamp in 2012. They were rewritten from scratch, making it a much simpler code. However, some people may still find them a bit difficult to understand. Here is everything you need to know about knife laws in Georgia.
What knives are legal to own in Georgia?
Bali or butterfly knives are perfectly legal in Georgia. The same goes for Bowie knives and other knives with massive blades – which are usually banned in other states. Throwing knives and stars are legal to own and disguised knives – lipstick of belt knives, among many others. Stilettos, dirks, switchblades, push knives, and daggers are all legal – even spring-powered ballistic knives. You can even own knives that cannot be detected with metal detectors.
What knives are illegal to own in Georgia?
Generally speaking, every knife is legal to own in Georgia. In terms of owning a knife, there are no restrictions at all. Bowie and ballistic knives are also accepted, despite being banned in other states.
What are the limits on carry?
Restrictions kick in when it comes to carrying weapons. No matter what knife you have, you can legally carry it as long as it is not longer than 12 inches. You can carry the knife in the open or concealed – make sure you do not exceed the size restriction, and you will be fine.
If the knife has a blade over 12 inches, it is considered a weapon, and you will need a permit. However, there will be no further restrictions if you manage to get it.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry is legal if the knife has less than 12 inches in size. It makes no difference how you conceal it – there are no laws to ban you from it.
Restrictions on Carry in Specific Locations / Circumstances
A knife with a blade longer than 2 inches is banned in schools and similar institutions. It is also unlawful to carry such a knife within the safety zone of a school, at school functions (even if they are held outside the school grounds), or during transportation organized by schools.
Restrictions on Sale or Transfer
Since all knives are legal in Georgia, there are no restrictions on sale or transfer.
Is there a statewide preemption?
There is a statewide preemption in Georgia that targets the possession, manufacture, sale, and transfer of knives. In other words, a knife that is deemed legal in Georgia is permitted throughout the whole state, making laws easier for everyone.
Major Cities in Georgia with Knife Ordinances
There is a statewide preemption; hence you don’t have to worry about any knife ordinances set by cities and counties.
Exceptions
State and federal officials are exempted from some restrictions.
Summary of Knife Laws in Georgia
Georgia has a friendly attitude towards knives. Rules are straightforward. There is one critical dimension to keep in mind – 12 inches. Any type of knife is legal to own, but only knives shorter than 12 inches you can carry – whether concealed or not. For larger knives, a weapons permit is necessary.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.
