Understanding the legal landscape of pocket knives in Utah reveals a generally permissive environment for both ownership and carrying of knives. In Utah, individuals are allowed to own and carry virtually any type of knife, including folding knives, fixed blades, switchblades, daggers, and even balisong (butterfly) knives. There are no state laws that prohibit the possession or open carry of knives based strictly on blade length or type.
Utah law does not explicitly restrict the concealed carry of knives either, meaning individuals may carry knives concealed without facing legal penalties unless other factors come into play, such as the intent of the carrier. A key consideration in Utah is the purpose behind carrying the knife. If a knife is carried with criminal intent or with the aim of using it unlawfully against another person, it can be classified as a dangerous weapon under Utah Code Section 76-10-501. The intended use plays an important role in determining whether a knife may be subject to legal restrictions or criminal charges.
There are no specific age restrictions statewide on possessing knives, but laws often restrict certain individuals classified as “restricted persons,” such as convicted felons or individuals under certain court orders, from carrying any weapon, including knives. Additionally, federal property within Utah may have separate rules forbidding knives regardless of state law.
Several exceptions apply when knives are used for legitimate purposes such as hunting, fishing, camping, or work-related activities. Under these circumstances, knives carried as tools rather than weapons are exempt from classification as dangerous weapons, which further underscores Utah’s generally lenient approach to knife carrying.
The state also does not impose restrictions on blade length or types commonly regulated in other states. This means carrying long blades or traditionally controversial knives does not violate Utah law simply on the basis of their physical characteristics.
Utah’s knife laws favor broad freedom to possess and carry knives openly or concealed. The main legal concern centers on the intent and use of the knife—carrying a knife for self-defense or utility is widely permitted, while carrying with criminal intent is punishable by law. This pragmatic framework offers Utah residents and visitors significant latitude with pocket knives, so long as the knives are not used unlawfully or in restricted areas.
Sources
[1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/utah-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.howarddefense.com/posts-archive/knife-tool-weapon-utah-criminal-law/
[3] https://www.egclegal.com/utah-knife-laws-a-detailed-exploration/
[4] https://dailycarryco.com/blogs/everydaycarry/understanding-and-legalities-of-gravity-knives-in-utah
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/SaltLakeCity/comments/hxusi3/im_confused_about_utah_knife_law/
