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>> Key Legal Points About Knives in Florida
>> Definition of Pocket Knife vs. Automatic Knife
● Are OTF Knives Legal to Carry in Florida?
>> Concealed Carry of OTF Knives
>> Local Variations and Exceptions
● Practical Considerations for Carrying OTF Knives in Florida
● FAQ
>> 1. Can I carry an OTF knife concealed in Florida without a permit?
>> 2. Are OTF knives legal to own in Florida?
>> 3. Can I openly carry an OTF knife in Florida?
>> 4. Are there any places where I cannot carry an OTF knife in Florida?
>> 5. Do local laws affect the legality of carrying an OTF knife in Florida?
Out-the-front (OTF) knives are a fascinating category of automatic knives that deploy their blades straight out of the handle via a spring mechanism. They are popular among knife enthusiasts and everyday carry (EDC) users for their quick deployment and sleek design. However, knife laws vary widely by state, and Florida's regulations on OTF knives can be confusing. This comprehensive article explores the legality, restrictions, and practical considerations of carrying an OTF knife in Florida, providing clarity for residents and visitors alike.
An OTF knife, or "Out-The-Front" knife, is a type of automatic knife where the blade slides out from the front of the handle rather than folding out from the side like traditional pocket knives. The blade is housed inside the handle and extends or retracts via a spring-loaded mechanism, typically activated by a thumb slide or button.
The blade is connected to a spring and locking mechanism inside the handle. When the user pushes the button or slider forward, the spring releases stored energy, propelling the blade out the front and locking it into place. To retract the blade, the slider is pulled back, releasing the lock and snapping the blade back inside the handle within milliseconds. This double-action mechanism allows for rapid deployment and retraction of the blade[5][12][7].
Florida's knife laws are relatively permissive compared to many other states, but they do have specific rules regarding blade length, type, and how knives can be carried.
- Open Carry: Florida generally allows open carry of most knives, including fixed blades and automatic knives like OTFs, as long as they are not prohibited types (e.g., ballistic knives)[3][8].
- Concealed Carry: Carrying a knife concealed on your person is regulated more strictly. Knives with blades longer than four inches typically require a concealed weapons permit (CWP) to be carried concealed. Pocket knives with blades under four inches can be carried concealed without a permit[2][3][8].
- Prohibited Knives: Ballistic knives (which eject blades as projectiles) are illegal to own, sell, or carry in Florida[3][6][14].
- Age Restrictions: You must be at least 21 years old to carry a concealed knife without a permit, with exceptions for active-duty military and veterans[6].
- Restricted Locations: Carrying knives is prohibited in certain places such as schools, courthouses, government buildings, airports, and polling places[10].
Florida law distinguishes between common pocket knives and automatic knives. A "common pocket knife" is defined as a folding knife with a blade under four inches that opens manually. Automatic knives, including OTF knives, are considered switchblades under Florida law[3][6][9].
OTF knives are legal to own in Florida. They are classified as automatic knives or switchblades, which are legal to carry openly without a permit, except in restricted areas. Open carry means the knife is visible on your person, such as clipped to your belt or worn in a sheath[3][6][8].
When it comes to concealed carry, the blade length is crucial:
- If the OTF knife blade is under four inches, you can carry it concealed without a permit because it qualifies as a "common pocket knife" under Florida law[1][3][8].
- If the blade is four inches or longer, carrying it concealed requires a valid concealed weapons permit (CWP). Without this permit, concealed carry of such knives is illegal and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges depending on circumstances[2][3][8].
Although Florida has state preemption laws for weapons, some counties like Miami-Dade have stricter rules banning switchblades, including OTF knives, entirely[7]. Therefore, it is important to check local ordinances before carrying an OTF knife.
- Blade Length: Many popular OTF knives have blades around 3 to 3.5 inches, which fits under the four-inch limit for concealed carry without a permit. For example, the Kershaw Livewire OTF knife has a 3.3-inch blade and is legal to carry concealed without a permit in most parts of Florida[4].
- Concealment Method: Concealed carry means the knife is not visible. Clipping an OTF knife to a pocket with the blade or handle visible may be considered open carry. Concealed carry laws apply when the knife is hidden entirely[1].
- Restricted Areas: Even if legal to carry, knives are prohibited in schools, courthouses, airports, and other specified locations. Carrying an OTF knife in these places can result in criminal charges[10].
- Identification: Since July 2023, Florida allows concealed carry of weapons (including knives) without a license under certain conditions, but individuals must carry and present identification to law enforcement upon request[6].
In Florida, you can carry an OTF knife legally, but with important caveats. Open carry of OTF knives is generally allowed statewide except in restricted areas. For concealed carry, the blade length is the key factor: blades under four inches can be carried concealed without a permit, while blades four inches or longer require a concealed weapons permit. Local ordinances, such as those in Miami-Dade County, may impose stricter bans on OTF knives. Always be aware of where you carry your knife and ensure compliance with both state and local laws to avoid legal trouble.
Yes, if the blade length is under four inches, you can carry an OTF knife concealed without a permit. Blades four inches or longer require a concealed weapons permit[1][3][8].
Yes, OTF knives are legal to own in Florida. They are considered automatic knives or switchblades but are not prohibited except for ballistic knives[3][6][9].
Yes, open carry of OTF knives is generally legal statewide, except in restricted areas like schools, courthouses, and airports[3][8][10].
Yes, knives are prohibited in schools, government buildings, courthouses, airports, polling places, and other sensitive locations[10].
Yes, some counties such as Miami-Dade have stricter laws banning switchblades and OTF knives. Always check local ordinances before carrying[7].
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[2] https://www.shieldon.net/a-guide-to-florida-knife-laws-carrying-straight-and-folding-knives/
[3] https://www.thedensonfirm.com/weapon-charges/florida-knife-laws-everything-you-need-to-know/
[4] https://hiconsumption.com/gear/best-otf-knives/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WH-tXXd3pG8
[6] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/knife-laws-in-florida/
[7] https://uppercuttactical.com/blogs/news/what-are-otf-knives-out-the-front-knives-explained
[8] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-florida-a-comprehensive-guide-to-carry-legally/
[9] https://sanityjewelry.com/blogs/news/otf-knife-state-laws-legality-explained-by-sanity-jewelry
[10] https://www.tosahwi.com/blogs/florida-knife-laws
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[12] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkaA4wZeLdQ
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[14] https://www.thelawofwe.com/what-knives-are-illegal-in-florida/
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[19] https://www.jaxsheriff.org/Resources/PermitlessCarry.aspx
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[25] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/florida/
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[35] https://louismartincustomknives.com/maps/knives-in-florida/
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[41] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4ovfoL0BfM
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