Tightened Restrictions: Multifunction Tools under German Firearms Legislation
In Germany, the legal status of carrying multitools on belts for event technicians and tradesmen on their way to work is not explicitly specified in search results. However, based on general knowledge of German law, these utility tools are generally accepted as they are primarily used for professional purposes, rather than as weapons.
Multitools, such as pliers, screwdrivers, and small hand tools, are typically considered legal to carry, as long as they do not possess features classified as weapons, such as switchblades or locking knives exceeding legal blade length. German weapons law (Waffengesetz) primarily regulates the carrying of knives and certain dangerous objects, with multitools with blades under a certain length or those primarily designed as tools generally exempt.
For absolute certainty, it is advisable to consult local regulations in Germany or company policies, as some regions or employers may have stricter rules. It is also recommended to carry multitools in a way that clearly indicates they are for professional use, such as on a work belt during commuting to a job site.
When it comes to specific circumstances, multitools may be subject to the same restrictions as all types of "single hand knives," such as pocket or folding knives that can be opened and locked effortlessly with a single hand. These restrictions apply to items that look real weapons, weapons for cutting and thrusting, single hand knives, and fixed knives with a blade longer than 12 cm, as per German law (§42A WaffG).
However, there are exceptions to these rules. For instance, multitools can be used at events, shows, or construction sites without issue, provided they are transported in a closed container. In Bavaria, it is possible to carry multitools on the way to work if they are required for the pursuit of the profession and there is a temporal-spatial connection with the activity.
The assessment of whether an exemption from the law applies is always based on the circumstances of the individual case. Event technicians and tradesmen can carry multitools for professional purposes, according to German law (§42A Abs. 3 WaffG). However, the jurisdiction of the matter is problematic and depends on the authorities on the ground.
To avoid any issues, it's safer to put the multitool in the toolbox when in public. In some cases, asking the responsible authorities for permission to carry the multitool on the way to work on the belt can help avoid unpleasant encounters with the police.
In conclusion, while the legal situation regarding carrying multitools on the way to work is unclear, event technicians and tradesmen can generally carry typical multitools on their belts legally in Germany while on their way to work, provided these tools are standard work instruments without illegal knife features. For absolute certainty, it is always advisable to consult a legal expert on German weapons law or the relevant local authority.
- "Event technicians and tradesmen can bring various gadgets, such as multitools, to work, given that these tools are primarily used for professional purposes and they do not contain features classified as weapons, including switchblades or locking knives exceeding legal blade length."
- "Regarding technology gadgets, some multitools may be subject to restrictions, like single hand knives, but can still be used in specific circumstances, such as at events, shows, or construction sites, as long as they are transported in a closed container."
