Texas Penal Code Practice 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Mastering Your Exam!

A butterfly knife is considered an illegal knife under Texas Penal Code because it falls under the category of knives that are classified as "prohibited weapons." The law specifically defines illegal knives to include knives with blades that are opened by a mechanical contrivance, which the butterfly knife exemplifies. This type of knife can be easily concealed and has the potential for being used as a weapon in unlawful ways, leading to its prohibition.

In contrast, a hunting knife, pocket knife, and Bowie knife do not typically fall under the definitions of illegal knives unless they have specific characteristics such as blade length or design that might classify them otherwise. Therefore, while other knives may be legal under certain conditions, the butterfly knife's mechanism and intended use make it illegal to carry or possess under Texas law.