Evidence, a clue, the weapon that was used to defend the good guy - for better or worse, bladed weapons have been a part of action/adventure/mystery writing since Homer described Ulysses in the Iliad.

This comparison will give you an idea of the relative sizes of common knives. The two on the right can be carried in the pocket, but are larger and heavier. Automatic/switchblade knives,  are regulated in commerce and shipping as a weapon by State and Federal laws. Any knife with a blade over three inches in length is considered a weapon regulated by the appropriate concealed weapon laws in most locales. If you include ANY of the weapons in your writing please review the appropriate Statutes and Laws. They vary by locale, often by County or City.

 © 2000-2008 John M. Taylor