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Knife Law (Criminal Justice Act 1988)
Legal to carry:
- Folding knife (<3″ blade, non-locking)
- Without needing reason
Illegal to carry (without good reason):
- Fixed-blade knife (any size)
- Locking folding knife (any size)
- Blade >3 inches
“Good Reason” Defined:
- Going to/from activity requiring knife (bushcraft trip)
- Work use (chef, tradesman)
- Religious reasons
NOT good reason:
- “Self-defense”
- “Just in case”
- “Forgot it was in bag”
Bushcraft Knife Carry:
- Legal IF: Traveling to/from bushcraft activity
- Pack knife away when not in woods (don’t carry in town)
- Be prepared to explain if stopped
Penalties:
- Prison up to 4 years
- Unlimited fine
- Police can confiscate
Axe/Saw
No specific size limit BUT:
- “Offensive weapon” if carried without reason
- Same principles as knife
- Pack in bag (not accessible while driving)
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