Tennessee Firearms Assoc. Inc.

Just curious as I think I read somewhere that automatic open(switchblade) knives were illigal to carry in TN. I had heard that in some states there were legal to own but not to carry, but wasnt sure if TN was one of them.

You can own them (see 39-17-1301 to 39-17-1308). I know many law enforcement, EMTS, firemen and others who find the one hand automatics to be a reasonable compliment to their daily assortment of equipment.

The law says that you cannot carry them and there is no exception for law enforcement or others.

"Collectors" are allowed to own automatic knives by state law.

As for threeheadeddog, there are plenty of "assisted opening" knives that aren't considered an automatic that you can carry.

The trick is the "collector" issue. I have several in my desk that I collected and use occasionally for speaking engagements and to open letters.

Just out of curiosity, what about members of the military. I have heard that military members are legal to have and use automatic knives when in uniform. I have one that I have carried for about 3 years now. The company that I bought it from would not ship to certain states (I assume that this is because some state like NY ban them completely). I know of at least one manufature that will ship directly to you if you can provide a copy of military/police ID.

I carry a Benchmade auto opening knife. When I purchased it. the store required a copy of my work ID to sell it. According to them, they are legal for EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, and active duty Military personnel. I don't know if they are correct, but tht's what they follow when selling them.

See the above statute regarding EMT.