I am moving fast, so let me just interject a few words here:
First, New York City has interpreted the state law against gravity knives such that if an officer can "wrist flick" the knife blade open, or alleges that the knife might be able to be opened in such a manner, and the knife blade locks open, that knife is an illegal gravity knife. NYC takes this position even if it requires multiple tries and use of exaggerated arm thrust or motion. Using this interpretation, most any lockblade knife might be deemed an illegal gravity knife.
Note also that New York City administrative code has an under-4-inch length limit and requires knives be carried concealed. Knife Rights recommends that you never carry your knife clipped to your pocket in New York City. Even when covered by a jacket, simply moving the jacket aside to get to a wallet has been enough to get folks arrested. Always ensure your knife is completely concealed at all times, including not "printing" on the outside of your clothing. In addition, be extremely circumspect about using a knife for any purpose in a public setting.
Second regarding the post "Fortunately, the courts appear to be interpreting the law as written. So, you will eventually win in court, but you will pay big bucks and waste a lot of time." That is almost 100% wrong. I can count on one hand cases where the courts have not accepted the NYPD's asinine wrist flick test as acceptable proof that a knife is a gravity knife. If you are a betting man you will not let it get that far, because you will lose and go to jail. The vast majority of cases are either dismissed outright because of extraordinary circumstances or exceptional good (meaning very high dollar) lawyering, or "adjourned in contemplation of dismissal" meaning, if you are good boy for 6 months we'll dismiss the case. Some are plea bargained down to a lesser charge, if your have other issues. Expect to spend between $5,000 and $10,000 to get there. If you have ever had a previous criminal conviction you can expect to be bumped up to a felony and may get as much as 6 years in jail.
Read the article.
Edited by Doug_Ritter (10/11/14 02:31 AM)