[matt87]

My comments as to the supposed/proper/constitutionally legal role of the Federal government are moot, really. As you two so well pointed out, it's not what happens today. That is an aside though.

My answer to agsolder's question is still correct and valid though; the Federal Swichblade Act prohibits (or limits) interstate commerce of switchblades and posession thereof in certain US territories and regions (e.g. D.C, Indian reservations etc.). It does not affect intrastate affairs. Therefore state law does not trump federal law, nor have I ever implied that it does. (Whether it should on the other hand is a completely different matter. ;-))

Originally Posted by Title 15 chapter 29 section 1242 of the United States Code

Whoever knowingly introduces, or manufactures for introduction,
into interstate commerce, or transports or distributes in
interstate commerce, any switchblade knife, shall be fined not more
than $2,000 or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.

Originally Posted by Title 15 chapter 29 section 1243 of the United States Code

Whoever, within any Territory or possession of the United States,
within Indian country (as defined in section 1151 of title 18), or
within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the
United States (as defined in section 7 of title 18), manufactures,
sells, or possesses any switchblade knife, shall be fined not more
than $2,000 or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.

Of course, many states have their own laws regarding switchblades too.