Iowa law Distinguishes between "offensive weapons" and "dangerous Weapons"

"State of Iowa and their knife law." " Iowa law distinguishes between Offensive weapons and dangerous weapons" 

"Offensive" weapons consist mostly of  machine guns, bombs, and firearms with a barrel that exceeds 6/10 of an inch in diameter. The only knife law item in that category is the legendary "ballistic Knife". 

A  "dangerous weapon" is any instrument  or device designed primarily for use inflicting death upon a human being or animal, and which is capable of inflicting death upon a human being when used in the manner for which it was designed 

On the other hand, Iowa defines the term "dangerous

weapon"  as including dagger, razors, stilettos,switchblade knives, and any knife with a blade exceeding five inches in length may not be carried concealed.  Use caution with regards to the knife you carry in Iowa