California’s knife laws are among the most detailed in the United States, and pocket knives are subject to specific regulations that every resident and visitor should understand. In California, folding pocket knives are generally legal to own and carry, provided they are in the closed position when carried. This includes most non-locking or slip-joint folding knives, such as Swiss Army knives and standard utility knives. The law permits both open and concealed carry of these folding knives as long as they are not in the open, locked position. If a folding knife is extended and locked, it may be classified as a “dirk” or “dagger,” which triggers different legal restrictions.
Switchblades, which are knives that open automatically by pressing a button or similar mechanism, are strictly regulated. Any switchblade with a blade length of two inches or more is illegal to carry, possess in public, or transfer. Other prohibited knives include ballistic knives, undetectable knives (those not detectable by metal detectors), and knives disguised as everyday objects, such as cane swords or belt buckle knives.
For pocket knives, there is no statewide blade length restriction for general carry, but some local jurisdictions, like Los Angeles, impose stricter rules. For example, in Los Angeles, it is illegal to carry any knife with a blade longer than three inches in public. On school property, only non-locking folding knives with blades shorter than 2.5 inches are allowed, and public buildings often prohibit knives with blades longer than four inches or any fixed blade knife.
Carrying a fixed-blade knife concealed is illegal statewide. Fixed-blade knives must be carried openly in a sheath suspended from the waist. Carrying a concealed dirk or dagger is considered a “wobbler” offense, which means it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties for violating knife laws range from fines and up to one year in county jail for misdemeanors, to up to three years in prison and significant fines for felonies, especially if there is intent to harm.
Using a legal pocket knife for self-defense is permitted under California law, but only if you reasonably fear immediate bodily harm and use proportional force. However, using a knife in a threatening or aggressive manner can lead to criminal charges, such as brandishing a weapon or assault with a deadly weapon.
It is essential to be aware of both state and local laws, as cities and counties may impose additional restrictions. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, individuals can lawfully possess and carry pocket knives in California without running afoul of the law.
Sources
[1] https://kntrialattorneys.com/blog/california-knife-laws-whats-legal-whats-not-in-2025/
[2] https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/knife-laws/
[3] https://thewrangler.com/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-california-a-legal-guide/2025/06/10/
[4] https://www.thebulldog.law/blog/2024/04/knife-laws-in-california-what-you-can-and-cant-carry
[5] https://www.shieldon.net/understanding-california-knife-laws-a-simple-guide-to-carrying-straight-and-folding-knives/
