No, butterfly knives are actually not illegal in Florida. To be honest, Florida is among the few states in the country where you can freely own or carry any type of knife except for just one type. We’ll come to that later. But the most important thing to note here is that you won’t get in any kind of legal trouble for having a butterfly knife on you if you’re in any part of Florida. That’s just how the state law works down there. So if you were feeling a bit confused about that, this right here is certainly a piece of good news. But in case you’re still a bit skeptical, we’d advise you to keep on reading and get to know about the actual laws in place about it all.
First, Let’s Get To Know The Basics Of Florida Knife Laws
Alrighty, so, in comparison to other states, Florida’s regulations concerning knives are pretty simple. How? See, right away, you should know that as a rule, the possession and carrying of different kinds of knives are allowed without too many limitations. The crucial laws that regulate this matter are Florida Statute 790.01, which deals with concealed weapons, and 790.225, which enumerates forbidden items.
Just so you know though, Florida is home to just one completely illegal knife, and that is the ballistic knife. A ballistic knife is a kind of knife where the blade is detached and is shot at the target. Use and possession of a ballistic knife are illegal; therefore, it is prohibited to have one, trade it, or make it.
Besides that, nearly every knife kind is lawful in Florida. Plain and simple!
Are Butterfly Knives Legal in Florida?
Here’s the main part which you’re here for, right? So, yes, Butterfly knives or balisongs are legal in Florida, as far as we know. As per the law, there is no need for you to have a special permit to own them, purchase them, or have them on your person. According to the state law in Florida, they are considered as normal folding or pocket knives. That’s all!
It is possible to have a butterfly knife checked, that is, in a pocket or bag, or openly, where it can be seen. But the thing is: due to the recent permitless carry law, people who are adults and meet the requirements can have more options now.
Nevertheless, it is still necessary to be considerate and cautious with the carrying of the weapon.
Open Carry vs Concealed Carry in Florida
It is true that individuals in Florida are permitted to carry knives either openly or in a concealed manner. Open carry refers to a situation where a knife is visible, for example, clipped to a belt or a pocket, and this is usually good to go.
Concealed carry is when a knife is kept out of sight. According to the existing law, those who qualify can carry concealed knives without the need for a permit.
Though the regulations have been eased, knives are still prohibited in certain places. Like? Oh, these are, among others, the institutions of education, judiciary, administration, the airports, the polling locations, as well as the secured areas equipped with metal detectors.
Knives That Are Banned in Florida
Actually, the list is very short. The only knife that is banned in Florida is a ballistic knife. You know, the way it operates, it is considered a dangerous weapon, and having one is a criminal offense.
Any other knives, such as butterfly knives, automatic knives, fixed blades, and even bigger blades like machetes or swords, are legal to be owned and carried if general rules are followed by the one who is carrying them.
