Pocket Knives

Georgia does not restrict the ownership of knives. It is legal to own or possess any knife you want. Georgia does however restrict the carry of knives. It is illegal to carry openly or concealed knives with a blade length of 12 inches or greater without a weapons carry license. Under Georgia law, a knife is defined as a cutting instrument designed for the purpose of offense and defense consisting of a blade that is greater than 12 inches in length which is fastened to a handle. [[lxi]]

Under the school safety zone statute (§ 16-11-127.1), “weapon” is defined to include specifically dirks, bowie knives, switchblade knives, ballistic knives, and any other knife having a blade of two (2) or more inches. These knives may not be carried on school property without a weapons carry license. [[lxii]]

Except for restrictions relating to government buildings and courthouses, municipalities may not restrict the possession or ownership of knives more than the state of Georgia has already done. [[lxiii]]