Knife Laws by State (2026)
How each state handles knife laws and the penalties, from each state's code.
| State | Knife laws |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Alabama's concealed-weapon crime (§ 13A-11-50, a Class B misdemeanor) applies to carrying a concealed pistol or other firearm; its text does not mention knives. Selling, giving or lending a bowie knife or a similar knife to a minor is punishable by a fine of $50 to $500. No statute naming switchblades, gravity knives or a blade-length limit was located in this review. Ala. Code 1975 §§ 13A-11-50, 13A-11-57 |
| Alaska | Alaska's weapons law does not ban owning or carrying switchblades or gravity knives by adults and sets no blade-length limit. It is a class A misdemeanor to sell or transfer a switchblade or gravity knife to anyone under 18 without a parent's or guardian's written consent, and a class B misdemeanor for an unemancipated minor under 16 to possess one without parental consent. A person under 21 may not carry a concealed deadly weapon other than an ordinary pocket knife (class B misdemeanor), and an adult carrying a concealed deadly weapon other than an ordinary pocket knife must tell a police officer who contacts them and allow it to be secured. Possessing a deadly weapon on school grounds, buses or school events without permission is a class A misdemeanor (adults 21+ may keep non-firearm weapons in a vehicle trunk or closed container), and carrying a deadly weapon other than an ordinary pocket knife while violating a domestic violence protective order is a class C felony. AS 11.61.200(a)(8)-(9), 11.61.210(a)(5), (a)(7)-(8), (d), 11.61.220(a)(1), (a)(3), (a)(6), (j); AS 12.55.125(e), 12.55.135 |
| Arizona | Arizona's prohibited-weapons list does not include any knife, so switchblades, gravity and ballistic knives are not banned by type, and there is no blade-length limit in the weapons statutes. A person under 21 may not carry a concealed deadly weapon other than a pocket knife (class 3 misdemeanor), with exceptions at home and on family property. Knives that are deadly weapons are barred on school grounds (class 1 misdemeanor), at polling places on election day (class 1 misdemeanor), and at nuclear or hydroelectric generating stations (class 4 felony), and a person must remove a deadly weapon at a public establishment or event when asked. Cities, towns and counties may not regulate knife possession, carrying or sale beyond state law. A.R.S. §§ 13-3101, 13-3102, 13-3120 |
| Arkansas | Arkansas does not ban knives by type. Carrying a knife (a bladed instrument at least 3 inches long, including daggers, switchblades and butterfly knives), a handgun or a club on or about the person, in a vehicle or readily available is a crime — 'carrying a weapon,' a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year and $2,500) — only when the person has a purpose to unlawfully use it as a weapon against a person. A lawful purpose is presumed at home, in one's own vehicle or business, while on a journey, and in other listed situations. Ark. Code § 5-73-120; Ark. Code §§ 5-4-201, 5-4-401 |
| California | Carrying a switchblade knife (including spring-blade and gravity knives) with a blade 2 inches or longer on the person, keeping one in the passenger or driver area of a vehicle in a public place, or selling or giving one away is a misdemeanor; one-hand opening knives with a thumb stud and a detent are not switchblades. Carrying a concealed dirk or dagger (a knife capable of ready use as a stabbing weapon; a folding knife counts only when open and locked) is a 'wobbler' punishable by up to 1 year in county jail or a felony term. Making, selling or possessing ballistic knives and disguised knives such as air gauge knives is likewise punishable by up to 1 year or a felony term. Bringing a dirk, dagger, ice pick, any knife with a blade longer than 2.5 inches, a locking folding knife or an unguarded razor onto K-12 school grounds is punishable by up to 1 year in county jail or a felony term. Cal. Penal Code 17235, 21510, 16470, 21310, 21110, 20310, 626.10(a); 1170(h)(1) |
| Colorado | Ballistic knives (spring- or explosive-propelled blades) are illegal weapons; knowingly possessing one is a class 1 misdemeanor. Colorado's weapons statutes do not list switchblades or gravity knives as illegal weapons. Knowingly carrying a concealed 'knife' — a dagger, dirk, knife or stiletto with a blade over 3.5 inches, or similar dangerous cutting instrument, but not a hunting or fishing knife carried for sport — is a class 1 misdemeanor, except in your home, business or property, or in a private vehicle while traveling for lawful protection. Carrying a non-firearm deadly weapon, including a knife, on the grounds of any school, college or university is a class 6 felony, with exceptions for authorized school activities. C.R.S. §§ 18-12-101(1)(a.5), (f), 18-12-102(2), (4), 18-12-105, 18-12-105.5; C.R.S. §§ 18-1.3-401, 18-1.3-501, 18-1.3-503 |
| Connecticut | Connecticut bans carrying on your person a dirk knife, switch knife, any automatic spring-release knife with a blade over 1.5 inches, a stiletto, or any knife with an edged blade 4 inches or longer, along with other dangerous weapons; it is a Class E felony (up to 3 years) and the weapon is forfeited. Having any of those knives in a vehicle you own, drive or ride in is a Class D felony (up to 5 years). Exceptions for knives 4 inches or longer include military members on duty, people moving household goods, taking a knife for repair, knife shows, historic reenactments, and licensed hunters, fishers and trappers during lawful activity. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 53-206, 29-38; Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 53a-35a, 53a-36, 53a-41, 53a-42 |
| Delaware | In Delaware a 'deadly weapon' includes a knife of any sort except an ordinary pocketknife (blade 3.75 inches or less) carried closed. Carrying a deadly weapon such as a knife concealed without a concealed-carry license is a Class G felony (up to 2 years). Selling or possessing a knuckle-grip knife or a martial-arts throwing star is a Class B misdemeanor. The separate switchblade-dealing offense (§ 1446) was repealed effective July 30, 2025. Knife offenses committed in a Safe School and Recreation Zone are punished one grade higher. 11 Del. C. §§ 222, 1442, 1446, 1452, 1453, 1457; 11 Del. C. §§ 4205, 4206 |
| District of Columbia | D.C. bans possessing a switchblade knife, along with knuckles, blackjacks and similar weapons, regardless of intent; possessing a dagger, dirk, razor, stiletto, or a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches is illegal when done with intent to use it unlawfully against another person. These violations carry up to 1 year in jail, or up to 10 years for someone with a prior conviction under that section or any felony. Separately, carrying any deadly or dangerous weapon, openly or concealed, outside your home, business or land carries up to 5 years (up to 10 with a prior conviction or felony). D.C. Code §§ 22-4514, 22-4515, 22-4504(a) |
| Florida | Florida's weapon laws cover dirks, knives and other deadly weapons, but exclude a common pocketknife, plastic knife or blunt table knife. Since 2023, a person who is licensed to carry concealed or who meets the licensing criteria may carry a concealed weapon such as a knife; someone who does not meet the criteria and carries a concealed weapon commits a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year). Making, selling or possessing a ballistic self-propelled knife (one that shoots its blade) is a first-degree misdemeanor. Possessing a knife or other weapon (including a razor blade or box cutter) on school property, a school bus or at a school event is a third-degree felony (up to 5 years), and displaying even a common pocketknife there in a threatening way is also prohibited. Fla. Stat. §§ 790.001(4), (20), 790.01, 790.225, 790.115; Fla. Stat. §§ 775.082, 775.083 |
| Georgia | Georgia's weapon-carry law defines a 'knife' as a cutting instrument with a blade longer than 12 inches; such knives may be carried by a 'lawful weapons carrier,' and anyone else carrying one commits a misdemeanor (a felony with 2 to 5 years for a second offense within five years). Knives with blades of 2 inches or more, switchblades, ballistic knives, daggers, bowie knives and straight razors are banned in school safety zones, at school functions and on school buses: it is a misdemeanor for a lawful weapons carrier and a felony (2 to 10 years and up to $10,000) for anyone else. O.C.G.A. §§ 16-11-125.1, 16-11-126(g), (h), 16-11-127.1 |
| Hawaii | Knowingly carrying a concealed dirk, dagger or other deadly or dangerous weapon is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year), as is carrying a concealed switchblade knife or butterfly knife; being lawfully in your own home is a defense. Possessing, using or threatening to use any of these weapons while committing another felony or misdemeanor is a separate Class C felony (5 years). Weapons seized after a conviction under the deadly-weapon section are destroyed. Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 134-51, 134-52, 134-53; Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 706-640, 706-659, 706-660, 706-663 |
| Idaho | Idaho does not ban switchblades or other knife types by statute. Its concealed-weapon law treats a dirk, dirk knife, bowie knife or dagger as a 'deadly weapon,' but a knife with a blade six inches or less, and kitchen or eating knives, are not deadly weapons; adults 18 and older who are U.S. citizens (or military members) and not disqualified from a concealed-weapons license may carry a concealed deadly weapon without a license. Possessing a deadly or dangerous weapon (as defined in federal law, 18 U.S.C. 930) on elementary or secondary school property, school transportation or at school-sponsored events is a misdemeanor, with listed exceptions. State law bars cities and counties from regulating knives, except that public schools, courthouses, law enforcement facilities, jails and prisons may restrict them. Idaho Code §§ 18-3302(2), (4)(f); 18-3302D; 18-3327 |
| Illinois | It is illegal to sell, make, buy, possess or carry a switchblade knife (blade opens automatically by a button, spring or other device in the handle) or a ballistic knife (blade shot out by a spring, elastic or gas), along with throwing stars and metal knuckles; this is a Class A misdemeanor. Carrying or possessing a dagger, dirk, dangerous knife, razor or stiletto with intent to use it unlawfully against another is also a Class A misdemeanor. These offenses become Class 4 felonies (1 to 3 years) when committed in a school, on school property or a school bus, in a public park, courthouse, public housing property or public transit vehicle, or on a public way within 1,000 feet of those places. Carrying a deadly weapon in a place licensed to sell alcohol or at a licensed or paid-admission public gathering, or carrying a ballistic knife while masked, is a Class 4 felony. 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(8), (a)(9), (b), (c)(2); 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-45, -55 |
| Indiana | Making, possessing, selling or buying a knife whose blade can be shot from the handle as a projectile by gas, a spring or another device (a ballistic knife) is a Class B misdemeanor. Possessing a knife intended as a weapon (including daggers, dirks, stilettos, switchblades, gravity knives and throwing stars) on school property, a school bus or a special purpose bus is a Class B misdemeanor, a Class A misdemeanor with a prior conviction, and a Level 6 felony if someone is injured; it does not apply to knives authorized by the school or secured in a motor vehicle. Indiana's weapons chapter on prohibited instruments of violence contains no switchblade ban and no blade-length limit; outside schools, the Criminal Code restricts only ballistic knives by type. IC 35-47-5-2, 35-47-5-2.5; IC 35-50-2-7; IC 35-50-3-2, -3 |
| Iowa | Ballistic knives (with a detachable blade propelled by a spring, elastic or compressed gas) are 'offensive weapons,' and knowingly possessing one without authorization is a class D felony (up to five years). Iowa law lists daggers, stilettos, switchblade knives and knives with blades over five inches as 'dangerous weapons'; carrying a dangerous weapon is a crime mainly when it is used in committing a crime (an aggravated misdemeanor). Offenses involving an offensive weapon within 1,000 feet of a school or in a public park carry double the maximum fine. Iowa Code §§ 702.7, 724.1(1)(d), 724.3, 724.4, 724.4A |
| Kansas | Kansas does not ban switchblades or other knife types by statute. Carrying a dagger, dirk, dangerous knife, straight razor, stiletto or similar weapon is a crime only if the person possesses it with intent to use it unlawfully against another (criminal use of weapons, a class A misdemeanor); throwing stars and metal knuckles are restricted separately. State law forbids cities and counties from enacting or enforcing any rule on the possession, carrying, sale or use of knives, and voids earlier local knife ordinances. K.S.A. 21-6301(a)(2), (b); 21-6302; 12-16,134 |
| Kentucky | Kentucky does not ban switchblades or other knife types by statute. Any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife is a 'deadly weapon.' Adults 21 and older who may lawfully possess a firearm may carry a concealed deadly weapon, including such a knife, without a license; otherwise carrying one concealed is a Class A misdemeanor (a Class D felony for someone with a prior felony involving a deadly weapon), with exceptions such as on one's own property. Possessing a deadly weapon in any public or private school building, bus, campus or other school property (other than colleges) is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years. KRS 500.080(4)(c); KRS 237.109; KRS 527.020(9)-(10); KRS 527.070(1), (4) |
| Louisiana | Louisiana's illegal carrying of weapons statute makes it a crime to intentionally conceal on one's person any firearm 'or other instrumentality customarily used or intended for probable use as a dangerous weapon' (concealed handgun permit holders are exempt), and to possess a dangerous weapon on a school campus or school bus, or in a police station, jail, courthouse or the state capitol. The basic penalty is a fine up to $500, up to 6 months, or both. The current text of R.S. 14:95 does not mention switchblades or other specific knife types or any blade-length limit. La. R.S. 14:95(A), (B)(1) |
| Maine | Maine law bars carrying a concealed 'bowie knife, dirk, stiletto or other dangerous or deadly weapon usually employed in the attack on or defense of a person,' and displaying such a weapon in a threatening manner; knives used to hunt, fish or trap are excepted. Violating the concealed weapon law is a Class D crime (less than one year and up to $2,000). Maine's former law against possessing or distributing dangerous knives such as switchblades (17-A § 1055) was repealed in 2015. 25 M.R.S. §§ 2001-A(1), (2)(C), 2004(2); 17-A M.R.S. § 1055 (repealed) |
| Maryland | It is a misdemeanor (up to 3 years and/or $1,000) to carry a concealed dangerous weapon, defined to include a dirk knife, bowie knife, switchblade knife, star knife and razor (but not a penknife without a switchblade), or to carry one openly with intent to injure someone unlawfully; in certain counties minors may not carry a dangerous weapon at night. Selling, bartering, displaying or offering to sell a switchblade knife or a spring-propelled 'shooting knife' is a misdemeanor with up to 12 months and/or a $50-$500 fine. Carrying or possessing a knife or other deadly weapon on public school property is also a misdemeanor. Md. Code, Crim. Law §§ 4-101, 4-105, 4-102 |
| Massachusetts | Massachusetts law makes it a crime to carry on one's person, or under one's control in a vehicle, a stiletto, dagger, dirk knife, ballistic knife, a knife with a detachable propelled blade, any knife with a double-edged blade, a switch knife or a spring-release (automatic) knife with a blade over 1.5 inches, a device that lets a locking-blade knife be drawn locked, and other listed weapons. The penalty is 2.5 to 5 years in state prison or 6 months to 2.5 years in jail; a person with no prior felony conviction may instead receive a fine up to $50 or up to 2.5 years in jail. G.L. c. 269, § 10(b) |
| Michigan | Michigan makes it a felony (up to 5 years and/or a $2,500 fine) to carry concealed on or about the person, or in a vehicle, a dagger, dirk, stiletto, a double-edged nonfolding stabbing instrument of any length, or any other dangerous weapon, except a hunting knife adapted and carried as such; the ban does not apply in one's own home, place of business or on land one possesses. The former ban on spring-opening pocket knives (switchblades), MCL 750.226a, was repealed effective October 11, 2017. MCL 750.227(1), (3); MCL 750.226a (repealed) |
| Minnesota | Minnesota makes it a crime to manufacture, transfer or possess metal knuckles or 'a switch blade knife opening automatically,' and to possess any dangerous article for use as a weapon against another. The penalty is up to 90 days and/or a fine, or up to 364 days and/or $3,000 if committed in a school, park or public housing zone. Possessing a dangerous weapon (which can include a knife designed as a weapon) while knowingly on school property is a felony punishable by up to 5 years and/or $10,000, with listed exceptions. Minn. Stat. § 609.66, subds. 1(a)(4)-(5), 1(b), 1d; § 609.02, subd. 6 |
| Mississippi | Carrying a bowie knife, dirk knife, butcher knife, switchblade knife or other deadly weapon concealed is a crime, except as allowed by § 45-9-101 and except for adults in their home, business or vehicle, or while going to or from hunting, fishing or similar lawful activities; a knife in a sheath that is wholly or partly visible is not concealed. A first offense carries a $100 to $500 fine and/or up to six months in jail, a second $100 to $500 and 30 days to six months, and a third or later 1 to 5 years in prison. Possessing a bowie knife, dirk, dagger, switchblade or other sharp-edged instrument on school property (with exceptions for instructional and food-preparation tools) is a misdemeanor with up to $1,000 and/or six months. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 97-37-1, 97-37-17(4)-(5) |
| Missouri | Missouri's weapons law defines a 'knife' as a dagger, dirk, stiletto or other bladed hand instrument readily capable of inflicting serious injury, but not an ordinary pocketknife with no blade over four inches. Carrying such a knife concealed into an area where firearms are restricted under § 571.107, or carrying it into a church, a polling place on election day, or a government building, is a class B misdemeanor (up to six months and $1,000); carrying any weapon readily capable of lethal use into a school, onto a school bus or to a school event is also unlawful use of a weapon, and exhibiting a weapon in an angry or threatening manner is a class E felony. Possessing, making, transporting or selling a switchblade knife (one that opens by a button, gravity or centrifugal force) is a class D felony only when done in violation of federal law; possessing metal knuckles is a class A misdemeanor. RSMo §§ 571.010(12), (21), 571.020, 571.030; §§ 558.011, 558.002 |
| Montana | Montana's concealed-weapon offense now applies only to firearms, so the state criminal code no longer restricts carrying a concealed knife, and the former section listing dirks, daggers and switchblades was repealed in 2021. Possessing, carrying or storing a knife with a blade 4 inches or longer, a sword or a straight razor in a public school building is a misdemeanor with up to $500 and/or six months in jail, unless the school trustees gave permission. Local governments may not regulate the possession or open carry of weapons, though they may restrict unpermitted concealed weapons and weapons carried into publicly owned buildings. MCA 45-8-316, 45-8-317 (repealed), 45-8-361, 45-8-351 |
| Nebraska | Nebraska's concealed-weapon ban now applies only to minors (under 21, with exceptions for military members and officers) and prohibited persons: carrying a concealed knife, handgun, brass knuckles or other deadly weapon is a Class I misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class IV felony for a repeat. A 'knife' is a dagger, dirk, knife or stiletto with a blade over three and one-half inches, or another cutting instrument, capable of causing death or serious injury as used or intended. No statewide ban on switchblades or other knife types was found in the weapons sections reviewed. Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 28-1201(8), (11), 28-1202; Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-105, § 28-106 |
| Nevada | Carrying a machete concealed is a gross misdemeanor for a first offense and a category D felony for a repeat, and carrying any other concealed dangerous or deadly weapon without a permit is a category C felony; the sheriff may issue permits for non-firearm weapons. Possessing a dirk, dagger or switchblade knife (a spring or snap blade of 2 inches or more that opens automatically) on the property or in a vehicle of a school, university or child care facility is a gross misdemeanor unless authorized. The concealed-weapon section reviewed does not name switchblades, dirks or daggers specifically. NRS 202.350(1)(d), (2); 202.265; NRS 193.130, 193.140, 193.150 |
| New Hampshire | New Hampshire's weapons-carrying law now bans only selling or carrying blackjacks, slung shots and metallic knuckles (a misdemeanor); knives such as switchblades, dirks and daggers were removed from it in 2010. State law also gives the state exclusive authority over knives and voids local ordinances regulating their sale, possession or carrying. No statewide statute restricting knife types or blade length was found in the sections reviewed. RSA 159:16, 159:26 |
| New Jersey | Knowingly possessing a gravity knife, switchblade knife, dagger, dirk, stiletto or ballistic knife without any explainable lawful purpose is a crime of the fourth degree (up to 18 months). Possessing any other weapon, including other dangerous knives, under circumstances not manifestly appropriate for its lawful uses is also a crime of the fourth degree, and possessing a weapon (other than a firearm) with a purpose to use it unlawfully against a person or property is a crime of the third degree. Possessing such a weapon on school, college or university buildings or grounds without written authorization is a crime of the fourth degree. The statutes set no blade-length limit. N.J.S. 2C:39-1, 2C:39-3(e), 2C:39-4(d), 2C:39-5(d)-(e); N.J.S. 2C:43-3, 2C:43-6, 2C:43-8 |
| New Mexico | Switchblades and gravity knives are banned: making, possessing, displaying, selling, lending, giving away or buying a knife whose blade opens automatically by a button or spring, or opens by gravity or centrifugal thrust, is a petty misdemeanor. Knives such as daggers, switchblades, bowie knives, dirks and butcher knives are 'deadly weapons', and carrying a concealed deadly weapon is a petty misdemeanor except in one's home or on one's property, in a private vehicle for lawful protection, or by peace officers or concealed handgun licensees. Carrying any deadly weapon on public school premises (buildings, grounds, parking areas, school buses and school-sanctioned activity sites) is a fourth degree felony, except for listed groups such as peace officers, approved programs and adults over 19 in a private vehicle. Boarding a for-hire or public bus with a deadly weapon readily accessible, without the company's approval, is a misdemeanor. No statute in the Criminal Code's weapons article sets a blade-length limit. NMSA 1978, § 30-7-8; § 30-1-12(B); § 30-7-2; § 30-7-2.1; § 30-7-13 |
| New York | Possessing a switchblade knife, pilum ballistic knife, metal knuckle knife or cane sword is criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, a class A misdemeanor (up to 364 days); gravity knives are no longer on the list. Possessing a dagger, dangerous knife, dirk, machete, razor, stiletto or undetectable knife is a crime only when done with intent to use it unlawfully against another person (also a class A misdemeanor). The state statute sets no blade-length limit, and its school-grounds weapon offense covers only rifles, shotguns and firearms. N.Y. Penal Law §§ 265.01(1)-(2), 265.01-a |
| North Carolina | Carrying a concealed bowie knife, dirk, dagger, razor, shuriken or other deadly weapon of like kind off one's own premises is a Class 2 misdemeanor, but the law does not apply to an ordinary pocket knife carried closed (a small knife whose blade folds fully into the handle and does not open by throwing, explosive or spring action). Possessing a bowie knife, dirk, dagger, switchblade knife, razor or any sharp-pointed or edged instrument on school property, openly or concealed, is a Class 1 misdemeanor, except instructional supplies, unaltered nail files and clips, and tools used solely for food preparation, instruction and maintenance. The statutes set no blade-length limit. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 14-269(a), (c), (d); 14-269.2(d) |
| North Dakota | North Dakota defines 'dangerous weapon' to include any switchblade or gravity knife, machete, scimitar, stiletto, sword, dagger, or knife with a blade of six inches or more. Carrying such a weapon concealed requires a firearm and dangerous weapon license; violating the concealed-carry chapter is a class A misdemeanor (up to 360 days and a $3,000 fine). Knowingly possessing a dangerous weapon at a school or school event, a church or a publicly owned building (with listed exceptions) is a noncriminal offense with a $100 fee. N.D.C.C. §§ 62.1-01-01(1), 62.1-02-05, 62.1-04-02, 62.1-04-05 |
| Ohio | Ohio's concealed-weapons law covers deadly weapons other than handguns, but it states that 'deadly weapon' does not include any knife, razor or cutting instrument that was not used as a weapon. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon other than a handgun in violation of the law is a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 180 days), with higher penalties for priors. The statute sets no blade-length limit and does not ban particular knife types. R.C. 2923.12(A), (H), 2923.11; R.C. 2929.14, 2929.18, 2929.24, 2929.28 |
| Oklahoma | Oklahoma's unlawful-carry statute no longer lists knives: it bars carrying pistols, rifles, shotguns, blackjacks, loaded canes, hand chains, metal knuckles 'or any other offensive weapon,' and expressly allows 'the proper use of guns and knives for self-defense, hunting, fishing, educational or recreational purposes.' A violation is a misdemeanor (fine of $100 to $250 or up to 30 days for a first offense). Weapons listed in that statute are banned on public and private school property and school buses (misdemeanor, fine up to $250), with exceptions such as a hunting or fishing knife kept in a vehicle while dropping off a student. Having a knife, dagger, dirk or switchblade while committing a felony is a separate Class B4 felony (at least two years). The statutes read contain no separate ban on switchblade or gravity knives and no blade-length limit. 21 O.S. §§ 1272, 1276, 1280.1, 1287 |
| Oregon | Carrying concealed on your person a switchblade or gravity knife (a blade that opens by spring or centrifugal force), a dirk, dagger, ice pick, slungshot, metal knuckles or similar instrument is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months). The statute sets no blade-length limit and does not restrict openly carrying ordinary knives. Possessing any instrument used as a dangerous weapon in a public building (which includes school grounds and buildings) is a Class C felony, and keeping a non-firearm weapon in a court facility after being told to surrender or remove it is also a Class C felony. ORS 166.240, 166.370 |
| Pennsylvania | Pennsylvania's prohibited offensive weapons statute (a misdemeanor of the first degree) lists items such as metal knuckles and blackjacks plus any implement for inflicting serious bodily injury 'which serves no common lawful purpose'; it does not name knives. Possessing any knife, cutting instrument or cutting tool in the buildings or grounds of an elementary or secondary school (public, private or parochial) or on school transportation is a misdemeanor of the first degree, unless it was for a supervised school activity or another lawful purpose. Bringing a 'dangerous weapon' into a court facility, which includes daggers and knives whose blade opens automatically by switch, push-button or spring, is a misdemeanor of the third degree (lockers must be provided). Carrying any weapon concealed with intent to use it criminally is a misdemeanor of the first degree. 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 908, 912, 913, 907 |
| Rhode Island | No one may carry or possess a blackjack, slingshot, billy, metal knuckles, stun gun or similar weapon, or carry a dagger, dirk, stiletto, sword-in-cane, bowie knife or similar stabbing weapon with intent to use it unlawfully against another. Carrying concealed any of those weapons, any razor, or any knife with a blade longer than three (3) inches is also prohibited. A violation is punished by a fine up to $1,000 or up to one year in jail, or both, and the weapon is confiscated. Selling a minor under 18 any such knife or a knife with a blade over three inches without written parental authorization is punished by one (1) to five (5) years or a $1,000 to $3,000 fine. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-42 |
| South Carolina | South Carolina's former concealed-weapons statute (§ 16-23-460) was repealed in 2024, and no general ban on carrying knives or blade-length limit for adults was found in the weapons chapter. Carrying a knife with a blade over two inches, a blackjack, metal pipe or pole, or any other weapon that may cause injury or death on elementary or secondary school property is a felony punished by up to five (5) years and/or a $1,000 fine, unless authorized or kept in a closed compartment of an attended or locked vehicle. Visibly displaying a knife during a violent crime adds five (5) years to the sentence. S.C. Code §§ 16-23-430, 16-23-460 (repealed), 16-23-490 |
| South Dakota | The South Dakota weapons statutes read do not ban switchblade or other knife types and set no blade-length limit; the 'controlled weapons' ban covers items such as machine guns and silencers, not knives. Concealing a dangerous weapon on or about one's person with intent to commit a felony is a Class 5 felony (up to five years). Intentionally carrying or possessing any dangerous weapon on public elementary or secondary school premises, vehicles or buildings is a Class 1 misdemeanor, and knowingly possessing a dangerous weapon in a county courthouse or the state capitol is also a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to one year and/or $2,000), with listed exceptions. SDCL 22-14-6, 22-14-8, 13-32-7, 22-14-23 |
| Tennessee | Tennessee's list of prohibited weapons does not include switchblades or other knives, and its general 'carrying with intent to go armed' offense covers firearms and clubs, not knives. On school property, carrying with intent to go armed a bowie knife, hawk bill knife, dagger, switchblade or any other sharp pointed or edged instrument (except unaltered nail files and tools used only for food, instruction or maintenance) is a Class E felony. The statute sets no blade-length limit. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 39-17-1302, 39-17-1307, 39-17-1309(a)-(b) |
| Texas | Texas no longer bans switchblades or other knife types; its weapons law focuses on 'location-restricted knives,' meaning a blade over 5.5 inches. A person under 18 who carries one away from home, his or her vehicle, or a parent's supervision commits a Class C misdemeanor. Carrying a location-restricted knife into listed places (such as polling places, courts, racetracks, airport secured areas, bars earning 51% from alcohol, sporting events, and prisons) is generally a Class C misdemeanor, but a third-degree felony on school or college premises. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.01(6)-(7), 46.02(a-4), (d), 46.03(a), (g-1), 46.05(a) |
| Utah | Utah's weapons laws do not ban any type of knife or set a blade-length limit; they regulate 'dangerous weapons,' meaning a firearm or any object that in the manner of its use or intended use can cause death or serious injury. Carrying a non-firearm dangerous weapon on elementary or secondary school premises is a class B misdemeanor, with exceptions (for example, with the administrator's approval or in a vehicle). A minor who possesses a dangerous weapon without a parent's permission (and, under 14, without adult supervision) commits a class B misdemeanor, class A for a repeat. Utah Code §§ 76-11-101(3), 76-11-205, 76-11-211; Utah Code §§ 76-3-203, 76-3-204, 76-3-205, 76-3-301 |
| Vermont | Vermont's weapons chapter does not ban any knife type or set a blade-length limit; it regulates 'dangerous or deadly weapons' by how they are used or intended to be used. Carrying a dangerous or deadly weapon with intent to injure another carries up to 2 years and/or $2,000 (up to 10 years if intending to injure multiple people). Knowingly possessing a dangerous or deadly weapon in a school building or on a school bus carries up to 1 year and/or $1,000 (up to 3 years for a repeat), unless authorized by the school; such weapons are also barred in courthouses without court permission. 13 V.S.A. §§ 4003, 4004, 4016 |
| Virginia | Carrying hidden on your person a dirk, bowie knife, stiletto, ballistic knife, machete, razor or similar weapon is a Class 1 misdemeanor; a second violation is a Class 6 felony and a third a Class 5 felony (exceptions include your own home or place of business). Selling, giving or possessing for sale a ballistic knife is a Class 4 misdemeanor. On school grounds, school buses and child day centers, possessing any knife other than a folding pocket knife with a metal blade under three inches is a Class 1 misdemeanor, with exceptions for food-preparation knives, trade tools and school programs. Va. Code §§ 18.2-308(A), 18.2-308.1(A), 18.2-311; Va. Code §§ 18.2-10, 18.2-11 |
| Washington | Making, selling or possessing a spring-blade (switchblade) or gravity knife, or furtively carrying a concealed dagger, dirk or other dangerous weapon, is a gross misdemeanor; assisted-opening knives with a bias toward closure are not spring-blade knives. Carrying, displaying or drawing any knife or other cutting instrument in a manner that shows intent to intimidate or warrants alarm for others' safety is a gross misdemeanor (except at home, at one's business, or in self-defense). Possessing such dangerous weapons on K-12 school premises or school transportation is a misdemeanor (gross misdemeanor for a repeat). RCW 9.41.250, 9.41.270, 9.41.280; RCW 9A.20.021 |
| West Virginia | West Virginia law does not ban switchblades or gravity knives; it defines them, with daggers, dirks and stilettos with blades over 3.5 inches, as 'knives' (deadly weapons). A pocketknife with a blade of 3.5 inches or less, a hunting or fishing knife carried for those uses, and tool or household knives are not 'knives' unless used or meant to cause serious injury. The former under-21 carry offense has been repealed, but a minor under 18 may not carry any deadly weapon (handled in juvenile court). Possessing a deadly weapon, including any knife regardless of blade length, on a school bus, on primary or secondary school grounds, or at a school function is a felony (2-10 years and/or up to $5,000); in a courthouse it is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year and/or $1,000). Brandishing a deadly weapon to cause a breach of the peace is a misdemeanor. W. Va. Code §§ 61-7-2(5), (8), (9), (15), 61-7-3 (repealed), 61-7-8, 61-7-11, 61-7-11a |
| Wisconsin | Wisconsin repealed its switchblade ban (former s. 941.24) in 2016 (2015 Wis. Act 149), and a knife is not a 'dangerous weapon' under the concealed-weapon law, so most people may carry any knife openly or concealed with no blade-length limit. Exception: a person barred from possessing firearms (for example, a felon) who carries a concealed knife that is a dangerous weapon commits a Class A misdemeanor. Possessing or going armed with a dangerous weapon other than a firearm, which can include a knife, on school premises is a Class A misdemeanor, or a Class I felony for a repeat violation within 5 years. State law bars cities and counties from regulating knives more strictly than state law, except that they may ban knives in buildings they own or control. Wis. Stat. §§ 941.23(1)(ap), 941.231, 948.61, 66.0409; 2015 Wis. Act 149; Wis. Stat. §§ 939.50, 939.51 |
| Wyoming | No Wyoming statute names or bans particular knives such as switchblades or gravity knives, and none sets a blade-length limit. Knives fall under the general 'deadly weapon' definition, which turns on whether an object, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is reasonably capable of causing death or serious injury. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon is a misdemeanor (up to 6 months and/or $750; a felony for a repeat) unless an exception applies, and the statute's permit-free exception is worded for firearms. Possessing a deadly weapon intending to threaten or injure someone is a felony (up to 5 years). Taking a deadly weapon into a courtroom without the judge's permission is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year and/or $5,000), and into a jail or prison a felony. A student with a deadly weapon on a school bus or school grounds must be expelled for one year (a school-discipline rule, not a crime). W.S. 6-1-104(a)(iv), 6-8-103, 6-8-104(a), 6-5-209, 21-4-306(a)(v), (c) |
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.