Arizona is known for having some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know about carrying pocket knives in the state as of 2025.
Legality of Pocket Knives
- No Blade Length Restriction: Arizona law does not impose a specific blade length limit for pocket knives. Any folding knife, regardless of blade length, is generally legal to own and carry.
- Definition: A “pocket knife” is typically defined as a folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches, but the law does not strictly limit the definition or restrict longer folding knives for adults.
Who Can Carry a Pocket Knife?
- Adults (21 and Over): Anyone aged 21 or older can legally carry any type of knife—openly or concealed—without restriction on blade length or type.
- Minors (Under 21): Those under 21 can legally carry a pocket knife (generally defined as a folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches) either openly or concealed. However, carrying larger knives concealed is restricted for those under 21.
Open vs. Concealed Carry
- No Distinction for Adults: For individuals 21 and older, there is no legal distinction between open and concealed carry of knives; both are permitted for all types and sizes of knives.
- Minors: Minors may only carry pocket knives concealed or within immediate access in a vehicle, not larger knives.
Location-Based Restrictions
While Arizona is permissive, there are important exceptions:
- Prohibited Locations: It is illegal to carry knives (including pocket knives) in certain areas such as:
- School grounds
- Government buildings
- Hydroelectric or nuclear facilities
- Organized public events
- Private property where the owner prohibits weapons
- Private Venues: Businesses and private property owners may set their own rules and can prohibit knives on their premises.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform State Law: Arizona law preempts all local and municipal knife regulations, meaning cities and towns cannot enact their own knife laws. This ensures consistency across the state and prevents confusion.
Duty to Disclose to Law Enforcement
- Disclosure Requirement: If stopped by law enforcement, adults (21+) are required to accurately disclose possession of a knife if asked, especially if carrying anything other than a pocket knife. For minors, failure to disclose can result in more severe penalties.
Intent and Use
- Criminal Intent: Carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully or in the commission of a crime is illegal and can lead to enhanced charges.
- Knives as Tools: Knives are considered tools unless used or intended to be used as weapons.
Summary Table: Arizona Pocket Knife Laws
| Category | Under 21 Years Old | 21 and Over |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket Knife Carry | Legal (open/concealed, <4″ blade) | Legal (open/concealed, any size) |
| Other Knives | Open carry legal; concealed restricted | Legal (open/concealed, any type) |
| Blade Length Limit | None for pocket knives (<4″ typical) | None |
| Prohibited Places | Schools, gov. buildings, etc. | Schools, gov. buildings, etc. |
| Duty to Disclose | Yes, if stopped by police | Yes, if stopped by police |
| State Preemption | Yes | Yes |
Key Takeaways
- Arizona allows broad legal carry of pocket knives for all ages, with almost no restrictions for those 21 and older.
- There are no state-imposed blade length limits for pocket knives.
- Carrying knives is prohibited in certain sensitive locations.
- State law overrides local knife ordinances, ensuring uniformity.
- Always disclose possession if asked by law enforcement.
Arizona’s knife laws are among the most lenient in the country, but it’s important to remain aware of location-based restrictions and the legal consequences of carrying with unlawful intent.
Sources:
- https://www.jacksonwhitelaw.com/criminal-defense-law/blog/arizona-knife-laws/
- https://www.shokuninusa.com/it-eu/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/arizona/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/arizona-knife-laws/
- https://edc.ninja/arizona-knife-laws/