Kentucky’s legal landscape regarding pocket knives is relatively permissive but structured around key distinctions, particularly the classification of knives as either ordinary knives or deadly weapons. Under Kentucky law (KRS 500.080 and related statutes), knives are broadly lawful to own, and most types can be carried openly by anyone without specific restrictions. This includes folding knives, pocket knives, hunting knives, switchblades, balisong (butterfly knives), dirks, daggers, disguised knives, ballistic knives, and other blades—Kentucky does not outlaw any particular type outright.
The crucial legal differentiation lies in the concept of a “deadly weapon,” which Kentucky defines as any knife other than an “ordinary pocket knife” or a hunting knife. Essentially, ordinary pocket knives and hunting knives are not considered deadly weapons and can be carried openly or concealed without a permit. However, other knives—such as larger blades, automatic knives, or knives designed primarily for use as weapons—fall into the “deadly weapon” category. Concealed carry of these deadly weapons requires a permit, which is the same license used for firearms. Yet, open carry of deadly weapons is allowed statewide without such a permit, provided no other laws are violated.
For concealed carry, any knife classified as a deadly weapon cannot be carried hidden on a person without a concealed deadly weapons permit. This limitation applies to those under 21, who face more restrictions; adults 21 and older generally have broad rights to carry knives openly or concealed with the proper license. Additionally, knives stored in a vehicle’s enclosed compartment, such as a glove box or center console, do not require a permit for concealed possession, even if classified as deadly weapons.
Kentucky also imposes strict prohibitions on carrying deadly weapons, including knives, on school property. Possession of a deadly weapon on public or private school grounds is a Class D felony punishable by serious penalties. Ordinary pocket knives that do not meet the deadly weapon definition may have exceptions, but knives deemed deadly weapons are forbidden in educational settings.
The state does not regulate blade length or ban specific knife categories, setting Kentucky apart from many other states with blade-length caps or bans on automatic knives. The lack of statutory blade-length limits means legal rights focus more on the type of knife and manner of carry than on specific measurements.
While Kentucky law provides broad rights for knife ownership and open carry, the line between what constitutes an “ordinary pocket knife” versus a deadly weapon remains somewhat vague because the state does not explicitly define “ordinary pocket knife.” Courts have left this somewhat open to interpretation rather than setting a strict legal definition or blade length, which can lead to case-by-case determinations in disputes or criminal charges related to knife possession or use.
In summary, Kentucky permits ownership and carrying of a wide variety of knives, including pocket and hunting knives, without restrictions on open carry or concealed carry for non-deadly knives. For knives classified as deadly weapons, open carry is allowed but concealed carry requires a permit. Knives are prohibited on school grounds regardless of carry style if classified as deadly weapons. The absence of blade length limits and outright bans on types of knives allows flexible knife rights, balanced by permit requirements for concealed deadly weapons and strict prohibitions in sensitive locations. Understanding these distinctions and local ordinances is vital for lawful knife possession and carry in Kentucky.
This legal framework reflects Kentucky’s relatively permissive stance on knife rights combined with targeted restrictions aimed at public safety, particularly regarding concealed carry and schools.
Sources
[1] https://baldanilaw.com/kentucky-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/kentucky/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/kentucky-knife-laws/
[4] https://ravencresttactical.com/kentucky-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
