In Oregon, the legal landscape for pocket knives is quite permissive, but with important nuances around how knives are carried and specific restrictions on certain types of knives. Generally, it is legal for most adults to own and carry all kinds of knives, including pocket knives, folding knives, fixed blades, and even switchblades, unless you are a convicted felon, who faces stronger restrictions.
Regarding the size and carrying methods, Oregon does not have a strict legal blade length limit for open carry, making it legal to openly carry knives of various sizes up to around 4.75 inches or slightly longer (some sources cite up to 6 inches). However, concealed carry laws are more restrictive. Carrying concealed knives such as dirks, daggers, switchblades, or knives with blades that project or swing open by spring or centrifugal force is prohibited and considered a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fines or jail time.
Oregon law specifically forbids carrying concealed automatic knives (switchblades), butterfly knives, or assisted opening knives due to their spring or centrifugal-force mechanisms. These knives may be openly carried but concealed carry is illegal and subject to penalties including up to six months jail and fines up to $2,500.
Certain locations, such as public buildings, courthouses, and schools, prohibit carrying knives regardless of size or type to maintain public safety. Illegal possession of knives in these locations can result in Class C felonies with substantial fines and prison terms.
Felons are generally barred from possessing most knives, especially those considered weapons, without restoration of rights. For minors, Oregon has no specific state-wide law banning knife ownership, but some types such as switchblades or daggers have restrictions, and local jurisdictions may impose further rules.
To summarize key points about pocket knives in Oregon:
- Ownership and open carry of pocket knives and most knives are legal for non-felons.
- Concealed carry of knives with spring-assisted or automatic opening mechanisms (switchblades, butterfly knives) is prohibited.
- There is no fixed blade-length limit for open carry, but concealed carry of larger or dangerous knives can lead to charges.
- Carrying knives in sensitive public places like schools and courthouses is forbidden.
- Violations of concealed carry and location restrictions can lead to misdemeanors or felonies.
- Local city or county ordinances may add further restrictions, so checking rules in your specific area is advised.
Overall, Oregon’s knife laws provide broad rights for carrying pocket knives openly while maintaining restrictions on concealed carry and certain knife types to balance personal freedom with public safety.
Sources
[1] https://www.shannonpowelllaw.com/blog/knife-laws-in-oregon
[2] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/oregon-knife-laws/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/oregon-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.oregongunlaw.com/post/oregon-knife-laws
[5] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/oregon/
