Ohio’s knife laws have undergone significant reform in recent years, making the state one of the more permissive jurisdictions for pocket knife owners. However, important nuances remain—especially regarding how and where you carry your knife, and how it is used.
Current Legal Status of Pocket Knives
- Ownership: Ohio law does not restrict the ownership of pocket knives or most other types of knives. This includes folding knives, fixed blades, switchblades, and automatic knives, all of which are legal to own and possess.
- Senate Bill 140: Effective April 2021, Senate Bill 140 reformed Ohio’s knife laws, removing the blanket prohibition on the manufacture, sale, and concealed carry of automatic (switchblade) knives. Now, these knives are legal to own, carry, manufacture, and sell in Ohio.
Carrying Pocket Knives: Open and Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: You may openly carry any legal knife, including pocket knives, without restriction—provided you do not use it to threaten or intimidate others.
- Concealed Carry: As of April 2021, you can legally carry a pocket knife (and most other knives) concealed on your person. The key legal distinction is intent and use: a knife is not considered a “deadly weapon” unless it is used, or intended to be used, as a weapon.
- Practical Effect: You cannot be arrested for carrying a concealed pocket knife unless you use it as a weapon or in a threatening manner.
- “Deadly Weapon” Definition: Under Ohio law, knives are not classified as deadly weapons unless used as such. This means that simply carrying a pocket knife, even concealed, is not a crime unless it is used or intended to cause harm.
Location-Based Restrictions
While Ohio is permissive about knife carry, there are important exceptions:
- Schools: Carrying any knife designed or adapted for use as a weapon in a “school safety zone” is a felony. Even standard folding knives could be scrutinized if deemed weapon-like, so it is safest not to bring knives onto school property.
- Courthouses and Government Buildings: Knives are prohibited in courthouses and certain government facilities. Violations can result in felony charges.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities, such as Cleveland and Columbus, may have additional restrictions, so always check local laws before carrying a knife in a new area.
Other Considerations
- Intent Matters: If you use your pocket knife as a weapon, or if you threaten someone with it, you can be charged with carrying a concealed weapon or other related offenses—even if the knife itself is otherwise legal to carry.
- No Blade Length Limit: Ohio law does not impose a maximum blade length for pocket knives or other knives.
- Exceptions for Law Enforcement and Military: Officers and military personnel are generally exempt from most knife restrictions while on duty.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Legality in Ohio
| Activity/Location | Legal Status (as of 2025) |
|---|---|
| Owning a pocket knife | Legal |
| Open carry in public | Legal |
| Concealed carry in public | Legal, unless used as a weapon |
| Carry in schools | Illegal if considered a weapon |
| Carry in courthouses | Illegal |
| Local restrictions | May apply; check city ordinances |
In Ohio, you can legally own and carry a pocket knife—openly or concealed—so long as you do not use it as a weapon or bring it into restricted locations like schools or courthouses. Always check for local ordinances, and remember: the law focuses on how you use your knife, not just the fact that you have one.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/ohio/
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/ohio-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-ohio-a-comprehensive-overview-of-whats-legal/
- https://www.gafirm.com/legal-blog/what-are-the-ohio-knife-laws/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/ohio-knife-laws/