Understanding your knife rights in California requires knowing the types of knives allowed, how they can be carried, and where restrictions apply. California law is detailed and strict, with specific rules for different knife categories.
Legal Knives and Carry Rules
Folding Knives: Folding knives (e.g., pocket knives, Swiss Army knives) are legal to own and carry both openly and concealed, as long as they are folded and not locked open. There is no blade length restriction for folding knives in California.
Fixed Blade Knives (Dirks and Daggers): These are knives without a folding mechanism, often considered stabbing weapons. They are legal to carry only if carried openly in a sheath, typically suspended from the waist. Concealed carry of dirks or daggers is illegal and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
Switchblades: Switchblades (automatic knives that open by a button or spring) with blades longer than 2 inches are illegal to carry, possess, or sell in California. This includes butterfly knives and gravity knives. Possession is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and/or fines.
Other Prohibited Knives:Â California bans certain disguised or unusual knives such as cane swords, lipstick knives, ballistic knives, belt buckle knives, air gauge knives, undetectable knives, and writing pen knives.
Carrying Restrictions and Locations
Open Carry:Â Fixed blade knives must be carried openly; folding knives can be concealed folded. Concealed carry of fixed blades, dirks, or daggers is prohibited.
Restricted Locations:Â Carrying knives is prohibited or heavily restricted in schools, government buildings, airports, and on federal property. For example, knives with blades longer than 2.5 inches are banned on school grounds, and knives with blades over 4 inches are banned in many public buildings.
Local Ordinances:Â Some cities like Los Angeles have stricter rules, such as banning knives with blades longer than 3 inches in public8.
Penalties for Violations
Misdemeanor Charges:Â Illegal possession or carrying of prohibited knives can lead to up to one year in county jail and fines up to $1,000.
Felony Charges:Â More serious offenses, such as carrying with intent to harm or possession of especially dangerous knives, can result in prison sentences of 16 months to 3 years and fines up to $10,000.
Use of Knives for Self-Defense
California law permits using legal knives in self-defense only when there is a reasonable fear of immediate bodily harm and the force used is proportional. Brandishing or using a knife unlawfully can result in criminal charges, including assault with a deadly weapon.
Summary Table
| Knife Type | Carry Allowed | Concealed Carry Allowed | Blade Length Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folding Knives | Yes (open or concealed folded) | Yes | No blade length limit | Blade must not be locked open |
| Fixed Blade (Dirks/Daggers) | Yes (open only) | No | Varies by location | Must be openly carried in sheath |
| Switchblades | No (if blade > 2″) | No | Max 2″ blade for legality | Includes butterfly, gravity knives |
| Disguised/Prohibited Knives | No | No | N/A | Cane swords, lipstick knives, etc. |
Knowing and following these laws is essential to avoid serious legal consequences in California. If you are unsure about a specific knife or situation, consulting a legal expert is advisable.
Sources
[1] https://www.robertmhelfend.com/criminal-defense/californias-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.aerlawgroup.com/california-knife-laws/
[3] https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/knife-laws/
[4] https://rubinlawoffice.com/blog/california-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/california/
