Alaska is a state in America where hunting and fishing are very popular.
Knife ownership in Alaska is directly connected to the state’s culture. A huge amount of outdoor activities take place, like fishing and hunting.
For that, the state of Alaska legislated a highly uniform set of knife laws. Alaska’s law offers knife owners’ rights by allowing the purchase and possession of a wide range of knives.
It’s important to understand the knife laws of Alaska very well if you want to buy, carry or sell a knife. You should also know that the knife laws were updated in 2013, so anything before that is considered out of date.
The Legitimacy of Knife Possession
Alaska’s law offers rights to all knife owners by allowing them to purchase and possess a wide range of knives.
Most of the knives are legal. This’s because there are dangerous animals like bears in Alaska, and the law will give you the right to defend yourself. You’re also allowed to manufacture knives yourself.
So, let’s talk about the types of knives.
Ordinary Pocket Knives
Ordinary pocket knives are known as short knives with a blade. They can be opened manually by the user.
It’s legal for anyone to possess an ordinary pocket knife in Alaska, but it must be concealed.
There’s no specification of maximum blade length, but most police stations consider it to be either 3 or 4 inches.
Switchblades
Switchblades are defined as any knife with a blade opened in response to pressing a trigger.
You’re allowed to own and carry your own switchblade. A minor under 16 is allowed to possess a switchblade only if given parental permission.
Many other sources still state that the possession of switchblades is illegal. This is incorrect, as it was legalized in 2013 after the laws were rewritten.
Gravity Knives
Gravity knives are knives with blades opened by the force of gravity. They share the same laws as switchblades.
Anyone over 16 can legally buy and possess gravity knives. Minors must secure parental permission to be able to carry them.
Ring Knives
Some knives have a finger ring used as a grip. It’s illegal to carry them as finger rings can be used as a brass knuckle, which is strictly prohibited.
Fixed Blade Knives
Fixed blade knives are knives whose blades can’t be folded down. They’re sometimes called sheath knives.
They’re considered as deadly weapons due to the sharpness of the blade. They’re treated exactly as switchblades.
Knife Length Limits
There is no legal limit of knife length placed by the state, except when determining a pocket knife. Anyone over the age of 21 can carry any type of knives, except on school properties or private buildings.
Concealed Carrying of Knives
As long as your knife is concealed, you’re allowed to legally carry your weapon anywhere in the state of Alaska.
People who are 21 years or older are allowed to carry switchblades and gravity knives.
If a police officer stops you, you must inform him that you are carrying a knife immediately, and give it to him if asked to, so it can be secured.
It’s illegal to conceal a knife into a private building without the knowledge of the owner. It’s also forbidden to carry a knife in a school without the school administration’s permission.
What is Illegal?
- Anyone below the age of 21 carrying a concealed non-pocket knife.
- Hiding a knife from a police officer.
- Escaped convicts carrying any type of knives.
- Using a knife to rob or force someone against their will.
- Talking to a person who has a restraining order against you while carrying a knife.
- Using a knife in prohibited places such as schools, colleges, banks, and police stations.
Penalty for Using Illegal Knives
If a person is keeping illegal knives with them, they’ll be penalized for breaking AK 08.76.100 or 08.76.020 of the Alaska Constitution. The financial compensation will be $500 and a person will also face 6 months in prison.
If a person assaults another with a knife in a public place, then this’s a crime that falls under the breaking of AK 11.61.220. Misconduct Involving Deadly Weapons. This will put that person in prison for 4 years, but if they’re younger than 18, they’ll be jailed for 6 months only.
Places Prohibited from Carrying Knives
Some places in Alaska are strictly prohibited from carrying knives.
Private Places
Carrying a knife in a private building without informing the owner will result in a monetary penalty and prison.
Educational Facilities
It’s illegal to carry a knife or any other deadly weapon to schools and colleges. This may result in students or teachers being expelled from the institute.
Public Transport
Carrying or selling knives in public transport is illegal and considered as a 3rd-degree crime. This may result in 6 months of prison.
Parking Places
If you carry or sell a knife in parking places, this’s considered a 5th-degree crime and will result in a penalty of $500.
Federal Property
Carrying knives in federal properties such as banks, courts or police stations is illegal. This may place a person behind bars for 6 months along with a hefty fine.
In Conclusion
Those who are looking to buy knives in Alaska face very few limitations. As long as it’s used for fishing, hunting, defense against wild animals or as a general tool.
If you are over 21, you’re offered a wide range of choices of pocket knives, switchblades, balisong knives, fixed blade knives, and gravity knives.
Alaska has great knife laws compared to other states, but it’s very important to follow the rules to avoid fines and prison time. You must also inform any police officer if asked that you’re carrying a knife.
Finally, you must consult a lawyer in Alaska if you have further questions about the laws related to owning a knife in the state.