I checked California laws after I posted my comment. Kind of like posting a comment before reading the article:) The one that stood out was it was illegal to carry a folding knife in the open position while exposed (the knife being exposed, not yourself. You will be jumped here on FR for being improper:) because it could be considered a dagger, which is illegal.
I have my Dad’s WWII US Navy knife I would like carry boating but am reluctant to carry because I already lost his WWII Kabar in a diving accident.
Not the same accident where I lost all my reloading equipment.
These are quotes from a Sailing Gear article.
“Some offshore races are now requiring knives on deck and worn by each crewmember”
“The requirement of a cockpit knife has always existed for most offshore and inshore races sailed under the ISAF Special Regulations. Regulations usually require a knife to be kept in the boat’s safety grab bag as well. These rules mandate the on-deck knife be accessible, secure in its scabbard, and made of a quality steel alloy that can withstand environmental abuse. In 2011, however, several studies conducted following two high-profile accidents each recommended all sailors carry a personal knife.
Consequently, the 2012 Mackinac [Race] Safety Requirements (MSR), used for the Chicago-Mac and Bayview-Mac races now require every crewmember to carry a knife while on deck, and always readily available (i.e., on the outside of your gear or PFD).”