Can I Bring My Kershaw Tanto Blade Across the Border to Canada?

When traveling from the U.S. to Canada, the rules regarding bringing knives can be somewhat complex, especially for assisted-opening knives like the Kershaw tanto blade. Here are some key points to consider before heading to the border.

Canadian Law

Canada has specific regulations concerning the import and possession of knives. According to Memorandum D19-13-2, an assisted-opening knife such as a Kershaw tanto blade would be considered illegal for import into the country. The knife must open with the application of hand pressure to a button, spring lever, or similar device in or attached to the handle. Additionally, any knife that falls under the categories of automatic, gravity, or balisong knives would be prohibited. This means that your Kershaw tanto blade would most likely be banned if you attempt to bring it across the border.

Border Customs

When crossing the border from the U.S. to Canada, you are required to declare any items you are bringing into the country, including knives, to the border customs officials. These officials have the final say on what you are allowed to bring into the country. It’s advisable to be honest and straightforward about the knife you are carrying. Try to avoid any claims of traveling with a prohibited weapon to prevent complications at the border.

State and Local Laws

Keep in mind that knife laws in Canada can vary by province. Some provinces have stricter regulations than others. For example, the Province of Ontario has a particularly strict stance on knives, making it difficult or impossible to bring certain types of assisted-opening blades into the province.

Travel Tips

Checked Luggage: If you are flying, consider packing the knife in your checked luggage rather than carrying it as a personal item. Carry-on regulations may be more stringent, and non-compliance can lead to confiscation of your knife or even delays in your travel.Security Precautions: Keep the knife out of reach and ensure it is stored safely while traveling. Displaying the knife openly can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement officials.Stay Informed: Always check with Canadian customs or consult their official website for the most current regulations regarding knives and other weapons. This ensures you are fully prepared and can avoid any potential issues at the border.

To ensure compliance and avoid any issues, it is best to leave the Kershaw tanto blade at home or research the specific regulations for your intended destination in Canada. Understanding the legal requirements and potential consequences can save you from complications and ensure a smooth crossing of the border.

Why On Earth Would You Need Such a Device?
Understanding the utility of an assisted-open tanto blade like the Kershaw knife can help you decide whether to take the risk. These knives are designed for specific uses such as outdoor activities, camping, or emergency situations. However, their assisted-opening feature often makes them illegal to bring into Canada. Consider whether you can justify taking the knife, especially with the potential for fines or confiscation.

Be Smart and Leave Your Weapons at Home
To avoid issues at the border, it's always best to leave any potentially prohibited items, such as knives, at home. Carrying weapons or anything that could be perceived as a weapon can lead to arrest and severe consequences.

Recent Changes in Canadian Law

As of 2018, Canadian law has become stricter concerning the possession and importation of knives. The CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) has updated its list of prohibited weapons, including gravity knives, centrifugal knives, and automatic knives. Memorandum D19-13-2 further outlines guidelines for importing and exporting weapons, making it clear that certain types of assisted-opening knives are illegal.

Illegal to Carry:Automatic Knives: Open automatically by applying hand pressure to a button, spring lever, or other device in or attached to the handle.Centrifugal Knives: Open automatically through the use of centrifugal force.Gravity Knives: Can open automatically by force of gravity.Push Daggers: The handle is perpendicular to the blade edge.Constant Companions: Belt buckle knives.Concealed Blades Under 30 cm: Devices designed to conceal a knife or blade.

Given these updated regulations, bringing an assisted-open tanto blade like the Kershaw knife across the border would likely be illegal. It is always best to check with Canadian customs or review official regulations to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues.