The Yellowhammer State provides plenty of untamed reasons to carry a tactical knife. It's the playground for all those seeking thrill amidst the raw wilderness and natural wonders. Starting from the foothills of Appalachians, taking the long journey with countless rivers, all the way through to dazzling white beaches of the Gulf, explorers are in for a treat. This is the state where you can unplug and disconnect, marvel in the wild, and explore 22 state parks encompassing 48,000 acres of rugged terrain.
You'll be better off and safer carrying a reliable fixed blade knife in this part of the world. Or, in the least a pocket folding knife that can help you shave tinder and set up a campfire on a frosty night in the forest.
But which knives can you legally own and carry? Knife laws are written in cryptic messages all across the U.S.A. Each state has its own laws, and then local city laws that can vary widely. So let's roll out Alabama's knife laws in plain English to see your options.
Knives That Are Legal To Own
Alabama has one of the most relaxed knife laws in the U.S.A. You can practically own any knife that you wish. The state law does not restrict its people from owning any kind of knife. Simply put, there are no forbidden knives under Alabama law. This makes the Yellowhammer State a haven for tactical knife enthusiasts. So, go ahead and knock yourself out, get any knife that cuts your mustard.Knives Legal To ‘Open Carry’
Being able to legally own a knife does not always mean that you carry it on person. Many states allow you to own certain knives but prohibit you from carrying them around.Even though Alabama law has some strict restrictions on carrying dangerous weapons, they are very generous with their knife laws. There are NO restrictions on carrying any kind of knife as long as you're openly carrying it. Under the eyes of the law, there's a difference between 'open carry' and 'conceal carry'. So while there are restrictions on concealed carry in Alabama, you can practically open carry any knife you like.
Restrictions On Concealed Carry
Here's the only restriction, and it's a big one. Although you're allowed to openly carry Bowie and other big fixed blade knives, the state prohibits the 'conceal carry' of big fixed blade knives that can be considered dangerous weapons. One is not even allowed to conceal carry big fixed blade kitchen knives or butcher knives.Here's what the law says:
Section 13A-11-50 Carrying concealed weapons
Except as otherwise provided in this Code, a person who carries concealed about his person a bowie knife or knife or instrument of like kind or description or a pistol or firearm of any other kind or an air gun shall, on conviction, be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $500.00, and may also be imprisoned in the county jail or sentenced to hard labor for the county for not more than six months.
In layman's terms, if you conceal carry a Bowie or similar fixed blade knife, you can be subject to up to $500 in fine and/or six months of hard labor in a prison.
