Knife as an impact device, legal question.

**donoraen** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:21pm

I search functioned and came back with nothing, so I was wondering if any LEOs could tell me if i used a closed folder as a kubaton would it still be considered deadly force since technically I'm still using a knife to defend myself? Also would I be better off legally speaking with using a tactical flashlight?

**ojgsxr6** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:25pm

the legal use of force in self defense varies state to state, so you'd have to let people know where you are

**Permalost** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:26pm

I've wondered about that too. IMO if you don't plan on using the blade, you should keep it holstered.

**goodlun** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:27pm

I will say this much as a peer who may sit in the jury box I would advise against it. I can see how a prosecution lawyer could make that look all sorts of bad.

**donoraen** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:29pm

Originally Posted by ojgsxr6

the legal use of force in self defense varies state to state, so you'd have to let people know where you are

Texas.

**Permalost** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:31pm

Originally Posted by donoraen

Texas.

They might convict you for not using deadly force.

**donoraen** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 6:48pm

Originally Posted by Permalost

They might convict you for not using deadly force.

Im in a college town so it's a bit more liberal around here, most other places I would probably agree with you.

**mad_malk** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 7:45pm

always better off using the flashlight

**donoraen** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 7:51pm

Fair enough, thanks for the imput everybody.

**jspeedy** · Posted On: 12/09/2010 8:53pm

I've read up on this subject somewhat. Until an LEO or more qualified person can correct me i'll throw in my unqualified opinion.

Use of a weapon has to be justified if the case goes to court. The best way to prove you were justified in using a weapon is to argue that you were in fear of loosing your life. This argument comes from instances where people shoot at the leg or a less than vital place to protect their life. The counter for that argument is that if you truly feared you were going to die why did you not shoot to kill if you were afraid you were going to die.

All I know is i'm not going to draw a weapon of any kind (other than possibly pepper spray or a stun gun, which I don't use) unless I absolutely have no other choice. If that is the case I wouldn't want to rely on a small ass kuboton to save me and the life of my family.

I just might have to start a separate thread about this one
Edit: nevermind, just say no to pocket sticks!
http://www.bullshido.net/forums/show...hlight=kubotan