On Wed, 14 Jul 2004 14:35:07 +0100, Binary Era wrote:

I have been given the gift of a Leatherman Multitool.

This beautifully-made device has a number of facilites: pliers,
screwdrivers, scissors, saw, etc. I'm sure the group will be familiar
with this sort of thing. It comes with a carrying case that clips to a
trouser-blade. But one of the components of this Mutlitool is a
knife-blade.

The cutting edge of the knife-blade is 63mm long, and all the
components of the Multitool lock into place, probably for safety
reasons, including the knife-blade.

With regard to this Multitool, Is it legal for me to own it, to carry
it about, and to use it? If not, what should I do with it?

I can't see why not. As I see it, the problems would come if you were to
consider using it as an offensive weapon - not that I'm suggesting you
would!

I happen to have a decent pocket knife - I sort of grew up being used to
having a pocket knife around. The blade is viciously sharp, and I keep
it that way. The blade also very positively locks into place - I'd
rather not think about what could happen if it could close accidentally
whilst I was using it. As a rule, however, I do keep the knife in the
house, it doesn't live in my pocket - if nothing else it's too heavy!

Keep it, enjoy it, but don't consider taking it with you on holiday,
especially if you're flying!

IANAL.