Hawaii’s knife laws have undergone significant changes in 2024 and 2025, especially with the passage of HB2342. While the state remains strict compared to much of the U.S., recent reforms have expanded the types of knives you can legally own and carry—though important restrictions remain.
Here’s what residents and visitors need to know about knife rights in Hawaii.
What Knives Are Legal to Own and Carry?
Legal to Own and Open Carry:
- As of May 2024, you may legally possess and openly carry:
- Switchblades (automatic knives)
- Butterfly knives (balisongs)
- Gravity knives
- Brass knuckles, swords, and spears (also legalized by HB2342)
- Single-edged pocket knives and most utility knives are legal to own and carry openly or concealed, with no blade length restrictions.
- Large knives (e.g., Bowie knives, machetes) are legal for activities like hiking or camping.
Illegal to Carry (Open or Concealed):
- Dirks and daggers: You may own these, but it is illegal to carry them (openly or concealed) or have them in your vehicle.
- Knives described or marketed as “deadly or dangerous weapons” (e.g., fighting/combat knives) may be restricted from carry.
Concealed Carry Restrictions:
- Concealed carry of switchblades, butterfly knives, gravity knives, and other “deadly weapons” remains illegal—even after the 2024 reforms.
- Concealed carry of single-edged pocket knives is generally permitted, as long as the knife is not otherwise classified as a restricted weapon.
Key Legal Details
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Open Carry Legal? | Concealed Carry Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-edged pocket knives | Yes | Yes | Yes | No length limits |
| Switchblades, butterfly, gravity | Yes (since 2024) | Yes | No | Concealed carry still banned |
| Dirk, dagger | Yes | No | No | Illegal to carry or transport |
| Brass knuckles, swords, spears | Yes (since 2024) | Yes | No | Concealed carry still banned |
| “Deadly/dangerous” combat knives | Varies | No | No | Depends on marketing/intent3 |
Special Restrictions
- Schools: Zero tolerance—no knives allowed on school property for any reason.
- Restricted Locations: Some government buildings, airports, and other sensitive areas may have additional bans.
- Use in Crimes: Penalties are increased if any knife is used in the commission of a crime.
Penalties
- Violating Hawaii’s knife carry laws is typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail.
- Using a knife unlawfully or in a crime can result in felony charges.
Practical Tips
- Check local signage and regulations, especially in parks or government buildings.
- Do not conceal carry switchblades, butterfly, or gravity knives—even though you may own and open carry them.
- Avoid carrying dirks, daggers, or knives marketed as combat/fighting weapons.
- Always transport knives safely and legally, especially when traveling between islands or through airports.
Summary
- You can now own and open carry switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives in Hawaii (since 2024), but concealed carry of these remains illegal.
- Single-edged pocket knives are the safest legal option for everyday carry, with no blade length restriction.
- Dirks, daggers, and knives marketed as weapons are illegal to carry, regardless of how you carry them.
- Never bring knives onto school grounds or other restricted properties.
- Violations can lead to arrest and criminal charges—know the law before you carry.
For the most current information, consult the Hawaii Revised Statutes or local law enforcement.
Sources:
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/hawaii-knife-laws/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/hawaii-knife-laws/
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/hawaii-knife-laws-with-all-new-updates-2022