Understanding knife rights in North Dakota means knowing that the state has relatively permissive laws regarding the ownership, possession, and carry of knives. In North Dakota, it is legal for individuals to own and carry a wide variety of knives, including pocket knives, fixed blades, and other types, without a statewide restriction on blade length. Open carry of knives is generally legal without the need for a permit.
However, the state does regulate the concealed carry of certain knives. Carrying a concealed knife with a blade longer than 5 inches is considered carrying a “dangerous weapon” and is illegal unless the individual has a concealed firearm and dangerous weapon license. This license allows the concealed carry of knives classified as dangerous weapons, including switchblades, gravity knives, and knives with blades over 5 inches. Concealed carry of folding pocket knives with blades of 4 inches or less is allowed without a license.
Certain locations in North Dakota restrict carrying knives, such as liquor establishments, public gatherings (including schools, churches, and political rallies), and others where weapons are prohibited by law. Violating these restrictions can result in misdemeanor charges with potential fines and imprisonment.
Importantly, North Dakota distinguishes between lawful possession of knives and carrying knives with the intent to use them as weapons. Carrying any knife or weapon with the purpose of using it against another person unlawfully can result in criminal charges.
North Dakota allows broad rights to own and carry knives, including open carry, but restricts concealed carry of larger or specified dangerous knives without a license. It is essential for residents and visitors to understand these distinctions and comply with location-based restrictions to avoid legal issues. Having a concealed weapons license significantly expands lawful carrying options for knives classified as dangerous weapons.
Sources
(https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/north-dakota-knife-laws/)
(https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/north-dakota/)
(https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/63-2013/session-laws/documents/wepns.pdf)
(https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state)
(https://www.shokuninusa.com/fil/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa)
