Regarding assisted style knives. This is from Kershaw's website.
Is a SpeedSafe® knife a switchblade?
NO! There are many unique features of SpeedSafe® knives that make them quite different than knives that are considered switchblades. Unlike a switchblade, SpeedSafe® blades DO NOT deploy with the push of a button in the handle or by gravity alone. Instead, the user must manually overcome the torsion bar's resistance-using the thumb stud or protrusion on the blade itself-in order to engage the SpeedSafe® system. Because the user must manually overcome the torsion bar's resistance, SpeedSafe® knives fall fully outside the Federal definition of a switchblade. However, due to the complexity and constantly changing nature of these laws and regulations, it is impossible for Kershaw Knives to be aware of every restriction in every location in which our knives are sold or carried. It is the responsibility of the buyer to investigate and comply with the laws and regulations that apply in his or her specific area.
Is a SpeedSafe® knife a switchblade?
NO! There are many unique features of SpeedSafe® knives that make them quite different than knives that are considered switchblades. Unlike a switchblade, SpeedSafe® blades DO NOT deploy with the push of a button in the handle or by gravity alone. Instead, the user must manually overcome the torsion bar's resistance-using the thumb stud or protrusion on the blade itself-in order to engage the SpeedSafe® system. Because the user must manually overcome the torsion bar's resistance, SpeedSafe® knives fall fully outside the Federal definition of a switchblade. However, due to the complexity and constantly changing nature of these laws and regulations, it is impossible for Kershaw Knives to be aware of every restriction in every location in which our knives are sold or carried. It is the responsibility of the buyer to investigate and comply with the laws and regulations that apply in his or her specific area.