Hawaii’s knife laws are among the strictest in the U.S., but recent legislative changes have brought significant updates. Here’s what you need to know about owning, carrying, and using knives in the Aloha State as of 2025.
What Knives Are Legal to Own and Carry?
- Legal to Own and Carry (Openly):
- As of May 2024, you may legally possess and openly carry most types of knives, including switchblades, balisongs (butterfly knives), and gravity knives, due to the passage of HB2342.
- Single-edged pocket knives are legal to own and carry, with no blade length restrictions.
- Large knives (e.g., Bowie knives, machetes, cane knives) are also legal to carry openly, which is especially relevant for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
- Illegal or Restricted:
- Carrying daggers, dirks, or knives designed primarily as weapons (rather than tools) is prohibited, whether open or concealed.
- It remains illegal to carry any knife (including switchblades and butterfly knives) in certain “sensitive locations,” such as schools, government buildings, and other designated public spaces.
- Concealed carry of certain knives is still restricted. While open carry is broadly permitted, carrying a concealed knife—especially one classified as a deadly weapon—can be a misdemeanor.
Key Statutes and Recent Changes
- HRS § 134-51: Prohibits carrying (openly or concealed) dirks, daggers, or other deadly weapons without authorization. Violation is a misdemeanor and can result in arrest and destruction of the weapon.
- HB2342 (2024): Lifted the longstanding ban on the manufacture, sale, and carry of switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives, expanding legal knife rights in Hawaii.
- No Blade Length Restriction: Hawaii does not impose a maximum blade length for legal carry, so even large knives are permitted for lawful purposes.
- No Statewide Preemption: Local governments may enact stricter knife regulations, so always check city or county ordinances before carrying a knife in a new area.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
| Carry Type | Legal Status (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | Permitted for most knives | Except in sensitive locations (e.g., schools, government buildings) |
| Concealed Carry | Restricted for certain knives | Especially dirks, daggers, and knives deemed “deadly weapons” |
| Sensitive Areas | Prohibited for all knives | Includes schools and some public facilities |
Sensitive Locations and Special Restrictions
- Schools and Campuses: Strictly prohibited to carry any knife or blade on school grounds or college campuses. Even items like nail cutters may be restricted without explicit permission.
- Government Buildings & Public Events: Carrying knives in these locations is generally banned. Always check posted signs and local rules.
Penalties for Violations
- Misdemeanor: Unlawful carry (open or concealed) of prohibited knives can result in up to one year in jail and fines.
- Felony: Using or threatening to use a knife in the commission of a crime is a felony offense.
Recent Legislative Developments
- SB 433 (2025): A proposed bill to ban most knife carry in public was stopped and did not become law, preserving the expanded rights granted by HB2342.
- Ongoing Vigilance: Knife owners should stay informed, as Hawaii’s legislature frequently considers new restrictions.
Knife Rights in Hawaii (2025)
- You may own and openly carry most knives, including switchblades and butterfly knives, thanks to HB2342.
- Carrying daggers, dirks, or knives primarily designed as weapons is still illegal.
- No blade length limit for legal knives.
- Concealed carry is restricted for certain knives.
- Never carry knives in schools, government buildings, or other sensitive locations.
- Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions—always check before carrying.
Staying informed and cautious is the best way to enjoy your knife rights in Hawaii without legal trouble.
Sources
[1] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
[2] https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/hawaii-knife-laws-with-all-new-updates-2022
[3] https://www.hawaiifreepress.com/Articles-Main/ID/29360/What-knives-can-you-carry-in-Hawaii
[4] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-knife-ban-bill-filed/
[5] https://edc.ninja/hawaii-knife-laws/
