Indiana’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States, but there are important exceptions and local variations that pocket knife owners should know.
General Rules for Pocket Knives
- Legal to Own and Carry: In Indiana, it is legal to own and carry pocket knives, whether openly or concealed. There are no state-level restrictions on blade length or requirements for concealment.
- No Statewide Preemption: Indiana does not have a law that overrides local ordinances, so some cities or municipalities may have stricter rules than the state.
Prohibited Knives
- Ballistic Knives: Knives that can shoot their blades (ballistic knives) are strictly prohibited. Possession, sale, or manufacture is a Class B misdemeanor.
- Chinese Throwing Stars: Also known as shuriken, these are illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture and are considered a Class C misdemeanor.
Restrictions in Specific Locations
- Schools and School Buses: Carrying any knife, including pocket knives, on school property or school buses is illegal and can result in serious penalties.
- Government Buildings and Airports: Knives are also banned in courthouses, airports, and certain other public buildings.
- Weapon-Free Zones: These areas are strictly enforced, and violations can lead to misdemeanor charges.
Local Ordinances
- Some municipalities may impose their own restrictions, such as banning knives in public parks or limiting blade length. For example, Merrillville prohibits concealed carry of all knives except pocket knives with blades no longer than 2 inches.
- Always check local laws in addition to state law before carrying a pocket knife in a new area.
Use and Conduct
- Reckless or Criminal Use: Using a knife in a violent, aggressive, or threatening manner is a felony, regardless of the type of knife.
- Intended Use: Carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon in prohibited areas is illegal.
Summary Table: Indiana Pocket Knife Laws
| Aspect | State Law Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket knife ownership | Legal | No blade length restriction |
| Concealed carry | Legal | No concealment requirement |
| Ballistic knives | Illegal | Class B misdemeanor |
| Chinese throwing stars | Illegal | Class C misdemeanor |
| Schools/government places | Illegal | Strictly enforced, serious penalties |
| Local restrictions | Possible | Check city/county ordinances |
Pocket knives are generally legal to own and carry in Indiana, but always avoid carrying them in schools, government buildings, and other weapon-free zones, and be aware of local ordinances that may impose additional restrictions.
Sources:
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-indiana-understanding-your-rights-and-limits/
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-indiana-a-legal-guide/
- https://www.delewislaw.com/blog/indiana-laws-regarding-knives-and-blades/
- https://edc.ninja/indiana-knife-laws/