Understanding Your Knife Rights in California: A Legal Guide California’s knife laws are complex and multifaceted, governing the types of knives that can be owned, carried, and used within the state.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of your knife rights in California as of January 2025.
Legal Knife Types
Folding Knives
Folding knives, including pocket knives, Swiss Army knives, and box cutters, are generally legal to carry both openly and concealed in California. These knives must be in a folded or closed position when carried concealed. There is no restriction on blade length for folding knives.
Fixed Blade Knives
Fixed blade knives, also known as dirks or daggers, are legal to own and carry in California. However, they must be carried openly in a sheath suspended from the waist. Concealing a fixed blade knife is illegal under California Penal Code § 21310.
Switchblades
Switchblades with blades shorter than two inches are legal to carry in California. However, switchblades with blades longer than two inches are illegal to carry, possess in a vehicle or public place, or transfer.
Restricted Knives
Several types of knives are illegal to own, manufacture, or sell in California. These typically include:
- Ballistic knives
- Cane swords
- Air gauge knives
- Writing pen knives
- Belt buckle knives
Carrying Regulations
Open Carry
Most legal knives can be carried openly in California. The hilt or handle of the knife must not be concealed, even by clothing or the knife’s sheath.
Concealed Carry
Only non-locking folding knives or folding knives with blades shorter than two inches can be legally carried concealed without a permit.
Location Restrictions
Certain locations in California prohibit the possession of knives, regardless of their legality elsewhere:
Public Buildings
It’s illegal to bring knives with blades over 4 inches into state or local public buildings.
Schools
On school grounds (K-12, community colleges, and universities), it’s illegal to possess dirks, daggers, knives with blades longer than 2.5 inches, locking blade folding knives, ice picks, and razor blades with unguarded blades.
Legal Penalties
Violating California’s knife laws can result in serious consequences:
- Misdemeanor charges can lead to up to one year in county jail and fines up to $1,000.
- Felony charges, typically involving more dangerous knives or aggravating factors, can result in up to three years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Recent Changes
As of 2023, switchblades were legalized in California following the repeal of Section 653k of the California Penal Code. However, restrictions on carrying knives in specific places like schools and government buildings remain in effect.
Conclusion
While California’s knife laws may seem complex, they generally allow for the possession and carrying of many common knife types.
The key is to understand the specific regulations for each knife type and to be aware of location-based restrictions. Always carry legal knives openly unless they are small, non-locking folding knives.
When in doubt, it’s best to consult with a legal professional or leave your knife at home to avoid potential legal issues.
Remember that local ordinances may impose additional restrictions, so it’s crucial to stay informed about both state and local laws regarding knife possession and use.
Sources:
- [1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/california-knife-laws/
- [2] https://www.aerlawgroup.com/california-knife-laws/
- [3] https://www.laattorney.com/a-guide-to-california-knife-laws-for-la-residents.html
- [4] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/california/
