Navigating knife laws in North Carolina can be complex due to distinctions between open and concealed carry, types of knives, and location-based restrictions. Here’s a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a knife owner or carrier in North Carolina.
1. Open Carry: Broad Rights, Few Restrictions
- Open carry of knives is generally legal in North Carolina. You may openly carry most types of knives, including fixed blades and folders, in public spaces unless otherwise restricted by local ordinances or specific location-based laws.
- There is no statewide blade length restriction for open carry.
- However, open carry is prohibited in certain locations, including:
- Schools and school property (no exceptions)
- Courthouses, government buildings, and some private properties that post restrictions.
2. Concealed Carry: Strict Rules and Key Exceptions
- Concealed carry of knives is tightly regulated. It is illegal to carry concealed about your person any:
- Bowie knife
- Dirk
- Dagger
- Razor
- Ballistic knife
- Or “other deadly weapon of like kind”
- Ordinary pocket knives are the main exception. North Carolina law defines an “ordinary pocket knife” as:
“A small knife, designed for carrying in a pocket or purse, with its cutting edge and point entirely enclosed by its handle, and that may not be opened by a throwing, explosive, or spring action.”
- You may carry an ordinary pocket knife concealed, but not other types of knives. What qualifies as “ordinary” can be subjective, so err on the side of caution and avoid carrying large or tactical knives concealed.
3. Restricted and Illegal Knives
- Ballistic knives are strictly illegal to manufacture, sell, possess, or carry—openly or concealed.
- Switchblades, gravity knives, and disguised knives are legal to own and open carry, but concealed carry is generally not allowed unless they fit the “ordinary pocket knife” exception.
- Selling restricted knives to minors is prohibited.
4. Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: No knives—open or concealed—are allowed on school property or at school events.
- Government buildings and courthouses: Knives are typically banned, regardless of carry method.
- State-owned rest areas and hunting/fishing reserves: Concealed carry of knives is permitted in these locations.
5. Penalties for Violations
- Illegal concealed carry of restricted knives is a criminal offense and can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of the weapon.
6. Recent and Proposed Changes
-
As of April 2025, a bill (House Bill 439) has been introduced to allow concealed carry of bladed weapons if certain requirements are met, but it has not yet become law. For now, the existing restrictions remain in effect.
Summary Table: Knife Carry in North Carolina
| Carry Type | Legal for Most Knives? | Key Exceptions/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | Yes | Not in schools, courthouses, or posted buildings |
| Concealed Carry | No | Only “ordinary pocket knives” are allowed |
| Ballistic Knives | No | Illegal to own, carry, or sell |
| Schools | No | All knives banned |
Key Takeaways
- Open carry is broadly legal, but concealed carry is highly restricted.
- Ordinary pocket knives are the only knives you may legally carry concealed.
- Never carry knives—open or concealed—on school property or in government buildings.
- Ballistic knives are always illegal.
- Stay updated on legislative changes, as laws may evolve.
For lawful and hassle-free knife ownership in North Carolina, always check your knife type, carry method, and location before heading out.
Sources:
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-north-carolina-your-guide-to-legal-carry/
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/north-carolina-state-knife-laws
- https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/knife-carry-law-reform-in-north-carolina.1784195/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/NorthCarolina/comments/uxtzaz/anyone_know_if_north_carolina_has_a_blade/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/north-carolina/