Are Switchblades Illegal?

Down the dark ally, the gangsters corner the hero against the brick wall. He's a goner, boys - but, wait, is that a switchblade? The light reflects off the metal for half a second before it snaps out and stabs one of the bad guys.

Switchblades are knives that automatically unfold the blade. They are also known as automatic knives. They contain a spring that forces the blade out quickly. So - why are switchblades illegal?

Hollywood has made switchblades look cool, but in the 1950s polite society was scared. Laws restricting switchblades were put in place. It's no wonder now many find themselves asking, "Are switchblades illegal?" because laws surrounding them are still unclear almost 70 years later.  

If you're looking to buy a switchblade, make sure you understand legal restrictions in your location before purchasing one.

Are Switchblades Illegal?

Are switchblades illegal in the U.S.? No. Switchblades are legal in most states in the U.S. However, some states still consider switchblades or automatic knives illegal. Where legal, certain rules must be followed related to their possession.

States Where Switchblades Are Illegal:

·      Delaware

·      Hawaii

·      Lousiana

·      Maine

·      Minnesota

·      Missouri

·      Montana

·      Nevada

·      New Jersey

·      New Mexico

·      New York

·      Pennsylvania

·      Washington

Though switchblades are ostensibly legal in all other states, there are serious restrictions about where, how, and when they may be possessed or carried.

What Stipulations Are Placed on Legal Switchblades?

The question of legal vs. illegal breaks down further into where is it legal to own a switchblade and where is it legal to carry a switchblade. From there, you must ascertain whether you can legally open carry or conceal carry a switchblade.

Additionally, it may also be a requirement to inform any police you are in contact with that you are carrying a switchblade.

Restrictions on length may also affect the legality of a knife. Some states may require lengths below 3" to 5 1/2".

There may also be geographical restrictions in a state where it is otherwise legal to carry a switchblade. For instance, schools and daycares may be explicitly off-limits to those open- or conceal-carrying switchblades.

Prior criminal history may also influence the ability to possess a switchblade. Those who have been previously convicted of a felony may lose the right to possess a switchblade in some localities, or lose the right to open carry a knife in ohio.. Likewise, a history of mental illness may restrict the right to possess a switchblade.

Selling switchblades across state lines is still heavily restricted.

Check out these types of switchblades to see what might meet the restrictions in your locality. Be sure to stay within blade length regulations for your state when purchasing a switchblade.

Shop for Switchblades

If you live somewhere where switchblades are legal you can acquire one for yourself or for someone as a gift. These handy knives are available in many sizes and styles to fit your needs.

Before buying or gifting a switchblade, ask yourself, "Are switchblades illegal here?" A pocket knife can be a great gift or hand tool, but only when owned legally and not put the owner in any legal jeopardy.