Machetes and knives

[mudsocks]

I'm sure some have. One guy thru-hiked with a tuba. The tuba was probably more useful.

Because the Tuba can be used to scare away bears & people.

[Pedaling Fool]

It's really funny (in a sad way) to think that you can get in a lot of trouble by the law for carrying a knife/machete, but it's perfectly legal to carry one of these http://www.amleo.com/silky-f180-folding-pruning-saw%252c-7-inch-straight-blade/p/143-18/?kc=amlshop15n&mkwid=FoKiUHdn&pcrid={creative_id}& gclid=CJWt6qW4zsUCFYMXHwod4BkAMA

[magneto]

I'm not "carrying a knife" when I backpack in the woods any more than I am "in possession of burglary tools" when I use a crowbar to open a crate.

It has to do with intent - "mens rea" or criminal intent. When backpacking, a reasonable person might carry a six-inch Ka-Bar hunting knife because they may have to chop wood, dig holes, construct shelter or perform some other backcountry task. Maybe they need to skin a fish. Who knows? It's a tool. Such a person is not breaking the law.


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[Traveler]

I'm not "carrying a knife" when I backpack in the woods any more than I am "in possession of burglary tools" when I use a crowbar to open a crate.

It has to do with intent - "mens rea" or criminal intent. When backpacking, a reasonable person might carry a six-inch Ka-Bar hunting knife because they may have to chop wood, dig holes, construct shelter or perform some other backcountry task. Maybe they need to skin a fish. Who knows? It's a tool. Such a person is not breaking the law.

Probably the best overall answer. Most statutes relative to knives are written in the shadow of criminal intent, backpacking removes a lot of that intent (though I cannot imagine why anyone would carry a machete on the AT for).

Any issues will likely come down to interpretation of the statute by a Ranger or LE official in context to where you are. If you are in the backcountry, its not going to create much of a problem. If you are heading to town, stash the blade until you get back on the trail.

[magneto]

Good advice - don't create a problem that can be avoided.


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[tscoffey]

I've seen trail maintainers carrying machetes. Can't say I've ever run across a hiker carrying one. I'm sure some have. One guy thru-hiked with a tuba. The tuba was probably more useful.

Depending on what key it is played in, that tuba could be used for defense.

[magneto]

Not to go off topic but the tuba hike was cool. There is a blog somewhere on the web...


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