What's the story with carrying knives?

In Ireland, swords are banned entirely, with an exception for martial arts and collectors, but you can't carry them around. Switchblades are illegal, and all other knives must be justified for either work or recreational purposes when carried, or you are guilty of an offense. Bayonets are also most likely illegal due to the firearms legislation which places pretty comprehensive restrictions on firearms accessories, and they'd also be hard to justify outside of reenactments and collections. Overall, the enforcement is pretty much common sense. The Gardaí have never hassled me about any knives I've carried openly hiking or kayaking. The story with pocket knives is all about justification. If you have a Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman going to work, no-one will care, but if you're out on the town on a Friday night and a Garda spots a 12cm folder, you're likely to be arrested.

mtb_kng wrote: »

:rolleyes:

So basically, I could carry my Swiss army knives provided I have a reason that isn't defence or something? Would cycling be okay? Like having it in my backpack? Or a pocket?

Probably. I always carry a knife cycling, a Victorinox Camouflage One-Hand Trekker; at least cycling in Wicklow, I do. If a Garda sees you with one and wants to make a fuss, he or she can, but it's never happened to me. Sailing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, even running in the hills, I carry a knife and have for years. Guards have seen me use it and no-one's ever said anything, so I'm happy enough. It seems to be a real common sense thing, which, happily, Guards seem to have plenty of.

It's all about context. I never carry a knife around town or locally, and I never carry one when drinking (except drinking whiskey in the bivvi).