Washington § 9.41.270 - Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm — Unlawful carrying or handling — Penalty — Exceptions. (Effective until May 1, 2027.)

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 9.41.270 — Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm — Unlawful carrying or handling — Penalty — Exceptions. (Effective until May 1, 2027.), with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9.41.270. Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm — Unlawful carrying or handling — Penalty — Exceptions. (Effective until May 1, 2027.)

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to carry, exhibit, display, or draw any firearm, dagger, sword, knife or other cutting or stabbing instrument, club, or any other weapon apparently capable of producing bodily harm, in a manner, under circumstances, and at a time and place that either manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons.
(2) Any person violating the provisions of subsection (1) above shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor. If any person is convicted of a violation of subsection (1) of this section, the person shall lose his or her concealed pistol license, if any. The court shall send notice of the revocation to the department of licensing, and the city, town, or county which issued the license.
(3) Subsection (1) of this section shall not apply to or affect the following:
(a) Any act committed by a person while in his or her place of abode or fixed place of business;
(b) Any person who by virtue of his or her office or public employment is vested by law with a duty to preserve public safety, maintain public order, or to make arrests for offenses, while in the performance of such duty;
(c) Any person acting for the purpose of protecting himself or herself against the use of presently threatened unlawful force by another, or for the purpose of protecting another against the use of such unlawful force by a third person;
(d) Any person making or assisting in making a lawful arrest for the commission of a felony; or
(e) Any person engaged in military activities sponsored by the federal or state governments.
[ 1994 sp.s. c 7 s 426; 1969 c 8 s 1.]

Notes

Finding—Intent—Severability—1994 sp.s. c 7: See notes following RCW 43.70.540.
Effective date—1994 sp.s. c 7 ss 401-410, 413-416, 418-437, and 439-460: See note following RCW 9.41.010.
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RCW 9.41.270

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 9.41.270

What does Revised Code of Washington § 9.41.270 cover?

Section 9.41.270 ("Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm — Unlawful carrying or handling — Penalty — Exceptions. (Effective until May 1, 2027.)") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 9.41.270?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 9.41.270" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 9.41.270 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

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