Minnesota’s knife laws are generally straightforward and consistent statewide, but there are important exceptions and local nuances every knife owner should know. Here’s a comprehensive guide to your rights and responsibilities regarding knife ownership and carry in Minnesota as of 2025.
What Knives Are Legal to Own in Minnesota?
- Legal: Most knives, including folding knives, fixed blades, Bowie knives, balisong (butterfly) knives, dirks, stilettos, daggers, throwing knives, and disguised knives (like pen or comb knives) are legal to own and possess in Minnesota.
- Illegal: Switchblades and automatic-opening knives are explicitly prohibited. It is illegal to manufacture, sell, transfer, or possess these types of knives in Minnesota.
Carrying Knives: Open and Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: You may openly carry any legal knife in Minnesota. There is no statewide restriction on blade length for open carry.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry is also permitted for any legal knife, except switchblades. However, carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon or to harm others is illegal, regardless of whether it is concealed or openly carried.
Intent Matters
- Carrying a knife for utility, work, or recreation is generally lawful.
- If you carry a knife “with intent to harm,” or if the knife is designed primarily as a weapon and you are found to have intent to use it unlawfully, you could face criminal charges.
- The burden is on the state to prove intent to harm in most cases.
Blade Length Restrictions
- State Law: There is no statewide blade length restriction for carrying knives in Minnesota.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities and counties (such as Minneapolis and Saint Paul) have local rules. For example, both cities generally allow folding knives with blades up to 4 inches. In some county parks (e.g., Ramsey County), knives with blades of 3 inches or more are prohibited.
- Best Practice: Always check city and county regulations, especially in metropolitan areas or public parks.
Where Knives Are Prohibited
Regardless of type or blade length, knives are strictly prohibited in:
- Schools and school buses
- Courthouses
- Certain state and government buildings
- Some public parks (check local rules)
Violating these location-based restrictions can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, especially in sensitive areas like schools.
Penalties for Illegal Knife Possession
- Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Gross Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
- Felony: More severe penalties, especially if a knife is used in a crime or brought to a school.
Summary Table: Minnesota Knife Laws (2025)
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Legal to Carry | Notes/Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switchblade/Automatic | No | No | Prohibited statewide |
| Folding/Lock Blade | Yes | Yes | Check local blade length limits |
| Fixed Blade/Bowie | Yes | Yes | Intent to harm is illegal |
| Balisong (Butterfly) | Yes | Yes | Same as above |
| Disguised Knives | Yes | Yes | Same as above |
| Knives in Schools | No | No | Prohibited in all schools |
| Knives in Courthouses | No | No | Prohibited in all courthouses |
Key Takeaways
- Switchblades/automatics are always illegal.
- Most other knives are legal to own and carry, unless you intend to use them as a weapon.
- No statewide blade length limit, but local rules may apply-especially in cities and parks.
- Knives are banned in schools, courthouses, and some government buildings.
- Always check local ordinances before carrying, especially in metropolitan areas.
If you’re ever unsure about your rights or face a knife-related charge, consult a Minnesota criminal defense attorney for guidance.
Sources:
- https://arechigo-stokka.com/blog/minnesota-knife-laws/
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/minnesota-state-knife-laws
- https://www.qsitraining.net/what-is-the-legal-knife-length-one-may-carry-in-minnesota/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/minnesota-knife-laws/