Gerber Hinderer CLS

Where in FL law does it establish a blade length limit?

Most states have a 4" blade restriction. Some have 3". Some have none. Unless you can find specific restrictions in the legal code or case law for a state there's no authoritative way to say what, if any, blade length is legal in a specific state.

Sound advice, but I'd hate to defend myself in a parking lot and get jammed up for it

Click to expand...

That's perfectly reasonable advice as well that we give all the time, but be sure that you're basing your position on good information. There's nothing in FL law or case law limiting you to a 3" blade and there's no national standard that sets 3" as "the standard" for blade length for states either. Keep in mind that FL treats switchblades as "common pocket knives".

As to whether a 3.5" blade will have a LEO "pay it no mind", if you don't take it out and menace anyone with it (or do anything else that would cause an LEO to already have an interest in arresting you) you would probably be fine. It's a style and size that is commonly available and if you like it there's no overt reason not to carry it. Carry what you want from 4" down and you'll be in company of millions of others.

The only concern would be the 440A steel the blade is made of. With the coated blade, there's no real reason for Gerber to have sacrificed edge holding for the cheaper more corrosion resistant steel.

I'd get a less aggressive-looking knife with better steel. Here's a great example with MUCH better steel that looks more innocent, and has a 3" blade.

If you want TEH UBER-TACTICAL, here's a knife with steel that's still better than 440A, partially serrated, with an incredibly strong locking system, weighs half an once less, and STILL looks less aggressive!

On the other hand, perhaps an oxygen tank wrench and window punch are more important than a sturdy clip to hold your knife in place. If so, the Hinderer CLS may indeed by the perfect knife for you.

John