BASC has re-issued its guidance about carrying knives to ensure sporting shooters are aware of recent changes to the law.
The law surrounding the use and carrying of knives was tightened in 2006 through the Violent Crime Reduction Act. With the exception of folding pocket knives with a cutting blade of less than 3 inches; it is now ILLEGAL to have any sharply pointed or bladed instrument in your possession, in a public place without good reason or lawful authority.
Good reason for carrying a knife may be shown by occupation as a farmer, estate manager, recreational stalker, game shooter, angler or anyone else that has reasonable grounds for expecting to need a knife whilst pursuing a lawful activity.
Carrying a knife in public must be in connection with the activity for which it is needed; going into a shop with a knife in your pocket if you are returning from or going to a place where you farm, fish or shoot etc. would constitute good reason.
Click here to view BASC’s guide
For further information, BASC members can contact the firearms team on 01244 573010 or e-mail firearms@0ld.basc.org.uk.
ENDS