Legal To Carry These for Self Defense in NY? Yup – WIBX AM 950

Short of getting a  license to carry a concealed firearm, there are several  very viable weapons that New Yorkers are allowed to carry in public for the purpose of self defense.

In fact , there is a misconception surrounding most of the following weaponry. Many people think of them  as illegal, and result in an arrest  simply for having them in your possession.   But , as explained below, each of the following can be used to protect you from a violent or deadly attack, and are perfectly legal to carry in most circumstances in New York State.

Taser/Stun Gun

There maybe some confusion regarding possession of stun guns and tasers, however , a court ruling on the matter should address any cloudiness regarding their legality when carried for self defense. Various media reports say the law banning civilian tasers plus stun guns is still on the books, however , a federal judge ruled within 2019 that the law is unconstitutional.

As reported by the NEW YORK Post following the judges ruling:

  Weapons experts, lawyers, even some politicians in New York believe it’s now perfectly legal to own and use one — as long as it is in self defense.

Mace/Pepper Spray

Both Pepper Spray and Mace are lawful to carry with regards to self defense in New York. However , there are some peculiar caveats, especially with Pepper Spray.

• You must be at least 18 years old to purchase Pepper Spray. Not to carry it, but to buy it
• When purchasing, the buyer must sign a form stating they are associated with legal age, and that they do not have any assaults or felonies convictions on their criminal record.
• It is only legal to carry in a small, pocket sized container and (this part gets odd, but don’t worry, the manufacturer has already done this part for you) the container itself must say something along the lines of: with regard to self defense purposes only.

Additionally , as is the case with many items around the list, while the item may be legal to possess and have, you can’t necessarily possess it everywhere. Example: on a plane. In fact , according to Lawful Beagle :

If a person gets caught with pepper spray on a plane, it is a felony charge that carries a fine of up to $25, 000.

Nunchucks

A law making the possession of nunchucks illegal in Nyc had been in place since the mid-70’s. However , the law was struck down by a U. S. District Judge in 2018 following a martial-art-enthusiasts near four-decades long lawful fight. The judge ruled the nunchuck ban was a violation of the Second Amendment right to bear arms.

While reported from the Washington Post :

… U. H. District Determine Pamela K. Chen struck down New York’s nunchuck ban while unconstitutional, finding that nunchucks are usually protected under the Second Modification right to bear arms.

Key Knife, Credit Card Knife, or other small knife

The little blades are often very sharp and can certainly be used to fend off a good attacker. Each is legal to  possess within New York, as long as they are being carried in their intended fashion: either tucked under a key or folded up within your wallet.

Keep in mind, if the knife’s blade will be concealed (not being publicly displayed) and the blade is usually less than four inches in length, simply possessing it is not the crime. Of course , if the weapon is used in order to menace or even threaten someone, you can bet you’ll be arrested for criminal possession of a weapon.

HyperWhistle

The HyperWhistle is a brand name that touts itself as the loudest whistle ever recorded. Registering an output over 140db, this device won’t help you fend off or injure your attacker(s), but its ear piercing sound does allow you to alert others and is essentially used as a call for help.

Whether a HyperWhistle or a similar, competing brand, these whistles are completely legal to carry, even on an airplane .

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