Quote:
Originally Posted by Joekerr
Hey Jim, what's the law right now in Ontario re: knives? Like if I were to go for a walk (I live near wooded areas and have seen coyotes, have not seen the black bears but have seen the scat from them), are there any restrictions to carrying a knife? If I were to go biking - would that be different? Does it differ if fixed vs folding (obviously know I can't have a switchblade).
I'll have to look at the law sometime, but in the meantime, thought I'd get a retired officer's opinion too.
Just looking for some way to give myself a little peace of mind...though they're far too close already if I'm forced to resort to a knife and I'm going to get bitten at that point.
Bear spray is too bulky IMO. And I'm not sure as to its effectiveness really.
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So as long as its labeled "bear spray" it's ok. It is exactly the same as what the cops carry OC Spray, but what the police carry is prohibited.
Regarding knives, there is no law that prohibits carrying a knife with a few caveats. The knife cannot be opened by a spring, (switchblades and stilleto's) they are prohibited under the criminal code, also if a knife can be opened using centrifugal force, (flick blades) they are also prohibited. Other than that no issue. If you encounter the police the correct answer is that it is a tool, and not a weapon or for protection. I have always carried a knife, I worked as a commercial diver before joining the police dept. I was often on boats and around the water so I carried a knife for work purposes but also used it as a tool when I was away from work. So you can carry a machete if you like, you're in the bush and use it to clear paths savvy? If you found yourself using it to defend against a bear or coyote so be it but that's not why you have it.
If you're seriously concerned about bears and they have been an issue I'd consider carrying a rifle, just make sure you're in compliance with all of the firearm regs.