Fixed blades in Ohio

As used in sections 2923.11 to 2923.24 of the Revised Code:

(A) “Deadly weapon” means any instrument, device, or thing capable of inflicting death, and designed or specially adapted for use as a weapon, or possessed, carried, or used as a weapon.

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(A) No person shall knowingly carry or have, concealed on the person’s person or concealed ready at hand, any of the following:

(1) A deadly weapon other than a handgun;

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It seems very vague. Don't know what to tell you?

It's always been my understanding that fixed blades were a no-no, unless you had a good reason, like if you are hunting.

Some cities have their own knife laws too.

I am not a lawyer, but here's what I found..............

http://knife-expert.com/oh.txt

Hope this helps.

Ballistic Knife, Switchblade Knife, Spring blade Knife, Gravity Knife, or similar weapon are illegal. An ordinary pocket knife that is not possessed, carried or used as a weapon is not a "deadly weapon"
Many cities have 2 1/2" length Max.

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Got that from handgunlaw.us

My other quotes in the previous post were from Ohio code.

Are there any Ohio LEOs on the board? I dont really have any need to carry a fixed blade... just curious about the legality if I chose to.

C9H13NO3 said:

Got that from handgunlaw.us

My other quotes in the previous post were from Ohio code.

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spring blade? would that be the same as spring assisted? like the one thats in my pocket right now?:redface:

Bfunk said:

Are there any Ohio LEOs on the board? I dont really have any need to carry a fixed blade... just curious about the legality if I chose to.

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There are one or two of them around here. But legal advice on the internet is what you pay for it Bfunk. I just stick with a good folder in my pocket, and have never had any issues with it regardless off the blade length, even when I have had a couple of interactions with cops and they know about it.

yep very vague... anything can be a deadly weapon... I guess I can't conceal my car keys or put my hands in my pockets

Lawriter - ORC - 2923.11 Weapons control definitions. has an extensive list of prohibited weapons. I didn't see any reference made specifically to fixed blade knives.

If you want a great sub-2-1/2" bladed knife of the fixed blade variety I would go with a Spyderco Swick. Top notch steel, shaving sharp out of the box, great grip when compared to the older alternative designs of similar type, and only $40 plus shipping. Add an excellent sheath from Scott Gere for $21 shipped and you'll be good to go for a lifetime of use.