Wyoming stands out for its permissive and straightforward approach to pocket knife laws, making it one of the most knife-friendly states in the U.S. Here’s what you need to know about the legal landscape for pocket knives in Wyoming as of 2025:
Are Pocket Knives Legal in Wyoming?
- Yes, pocket knives are legal to own, carry, and use in Wyoming. There are no state restrictions on the type, size, or mechanism of pocket knives—including switchblades, butterfly knives, and other folding or fixed-blade designs.
Open and Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: You may openly carry any type of knife, including pocket knives, without restriction on blade length or type.
- Concealed Carry: Wyoming law allows for the concealed carry of pocket knives and most other knives. There are no blade length limits for concealed carry of pocket knives, and carrying them concealed is legal for most adults.
- Deadly Weapon Exception: Concealed carry restrictions apply to “deadly weapons,” but pocket knives with blades under 6 inches are generally not considered deadly weapons for this purpose.
- Permit Requirements: For knives that might be considered deadly weapons (such as large fixed blades), concealed carry is allowed for those who are at least 21, U.S. residents, and otherwise eligible to hold a weapon permit.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform State Law: Wyoming has a statewide preemption statute, meaning local governments cannot enact knife laws stricter than state law. This ensures consistent regulations across the state, so you won’t encounter different rules in different cities or counties.
Restricted Locations
Even in permissive Wyoming, you cannot carry knives (especially if considered deadly weapons) in certain places, including:
- Jails, prisons, or correctional facilities
- Courtrooms
- Schools and certain school events
- Secure areas of government buildings
- Portions of establishments primarily devoted to alcohol consumption
Always check for posted signs and federal property rules, which may impose additional restrictions.
Age and Intent
- No State Age Limit: There is no state-level minimum age for buying or possessing a pocket knife, though retailers may set their own policies.
- Intent Matters: Carrying any knife with the intent to use it unlawfully as a weapon is illegal, regardless of blade length or type.
Penalties for Violations
- Concealed Deadly Weapon Without Eligibility: First offense is a misdemeanor (up to $750 fine and/or 6 months in jail); subsequent offenses can be felonies.
- Unlawful Use: Using a knife to threaten or harm can result in felony charges.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in Wyoming
| Aspect | Legal Status in Wyoming |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Legal for all types and sizes |
| Open Carry | Legal, no blade length or type restrictions |
| Concealed Carry | Legal for pocket knives; restrictions for deadly weapons |
| Statewide Preemption | Yes, uniform law across Wyoming |
| Restricted Locations | Yes (e.g., schools, courts, jails, some bars) |
| Age Restrictions | None at state level |
| Intent to Harm | Illegal with any knife |
Wyoming law is highly permissive regarding pocket knives—there are no restrictions on ownership, open carry, or concealed carry for typical pocket knives, and local governments cannot impose stricter rules.
However, intent and location matter: using a knife as a weapon or carrying in restricted places is illegal. Always use knives responsibly and check for posted restrictions in sensitive areas.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/wyoming/
- https://www.shokuninusa.com/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
- https://giffords.org/lawcenter/state-laws/location-restrictions-in-wyoming/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/wyoming/title-6/chapter-8/article-1/section-6-8-104/