Arkansas offers one of the most permissive legal environments for pocket knives in the United States, but there are still important rules and considerations to keep in mind.
Ownership and Carry
Arkansas law does not restrict the types of knives that can be owned or carried, including pocket knives, folding knives, fixed blades, and even specialty knives such as switchblades and balisongs. There are no statewide blade length restrictions for adults, meaning you can legally carry a pocket knife of any size unless you intend to use it unlawfully as a weapon. Open carry and concealed carry of knives are both permitted, provided there is no intent to use the knife for unlawful purposes.
Intent and Prohibited Conduct
Carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon unlawfully against another person is illegal under Arkansas law. If a person is found carrying a knife for this purpose, they may face criminal charges, which could range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the circumstances. However, simply carrying a pocket knife for utility or lawful self-defense is not prohibited.
Restricted Locations
Despite the general permissiveness, there are specific locations where carrying any knife is restricted. These include:
Schools and educational institutions: Carrying knives on school property, including colleges and universities, is prohibited except in limited, regulated circumstances such as culinary classes.
Government buildings: Knives are generally not allowed in courthouses, state offices, and other government facilities.
Correctional facilities: Carrying knives into prisons, jails, or detention centers is strictly prohibited.
Minors and Knife Possession
Arkansas law restricts minors (those under 18) from purchasing knives without parental consent. Minors may carry a simple pocket knife for legitimate purposes such as hunting, fishing, camping, or educational activities, but only under supervision or for lawful reasons. Giving a deadly weapon (which can include knives) to a minor is a Class A misdemeanor.
Local Ordinances
While Arkansas state law is very permissive, some local municipalities may have their own restrictions on knife carry or blade length. For example, Fort Smith limits blade length to 3.5 inches, and Eureka Springs has additional regulations. It is important to check local laws when traveling within the state.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Arkansas Law Overview |
|---|---|
| Types Allowed | All types, including switchblades and balisongs |
| Blade Length | No statewide restriction for adults |
| Concealed Carry | Legal, except in restricted locations |
| Open Carry | Legal, except in restricted locations |
| Minors | Restricted purchase; simple pocket knife carry allowed |
| Intent | Illegal to carry with intent to use unlawfully |
| Restricted Locations | Schools, government buildings, correctional facilities |
| Local Ordinances | Some cities have additional restrictions |
Arkansas’s approach to pocket knives is highly permissive, but it is essential to be aware of intent, age restrictions, and location-based prohibitions to ensure full compliance with the law.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/arkansas/
[2] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/arkansas-knife-laws/
[3] https://edc.ninja/arkansas-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.montgomeryadamswyatt.com/blog/2021/02/knife-laws-in-arkansas/
[5] https://www.jamesforarkansas.com/arkansas-sharpens-its-edge-a-dive-into-knife-laws/
