Minnesota generally allows the possession and carry of pocket knives, but the law distinguishes between types of knives, intent, and location. While pocket knives are legal for most purposes, there are important restrictions and local variations that all knife owners should understand.
Legal Possession and Carry
- Ownership: Most knives, including pocket knives, are legal to own in Minnesota. The primary statewide exception is switchblades (automatic-opening knives), which are illegal to possess, manufacture, transfer, or carry.
- Open Carry: Openly carrying a legal knife, such as a pocket knife, is generally permitted statewide. However, carrying any knife in a manner that appears threatening or is intended for harm can lead to criminal charges.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of pocket knives is also legal, provided the knife is not a prohibited type (like a switchblade) and is not carried with unlawful intent. Carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon is illegal and can result in serious charges.
Restrictions and Prohibited Knives
- Switchblades: Minnesota law prohibits the possession, sale, or transport of switchblades-knives that open automatically by pressing a button or spring mechanism.
- Butterfly (Balisong) and Gravity Knives: While not outright banned, these knives may be considered “dangerous weapons” if carried or used with unlawful intent. Carrying them concealed or in a vehicle without a lawful purpose can result in charges.
- Dangerous Weapons: Any knife, including a pocket knife, can be classified as a dangerous weapon if used or intended to be used to cause harm. This classification brings stricter legal consequences.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools and State Buildings: Carrying any knife, regardless of type or blade length, is strictly prohibited in schools, courthouses, and certain state buildings. Violations can result in felony charges, especially for students or minors.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities and counties impose additional restrictions. For example, Minneapolis prohibits concealed carry of knives with blades over four inches, and Ramsey County bans knives with blades of three inches or more in public parks. Always check local laws before carrying a knife in public spaces.
Penalties for Violations
- Misdemeanor and Gross Misdemeanor: Illegal possession or carry of a knife typically results in a misdemeanor (up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine) or a gross misdemeanor (up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine).
- Felony Charges: Bringing a knife onto school property or using a knife in an assault can result in felony charges, carrying much harsher penalties.
Key Takeaways
- Pocket knives are generally legal to own and carry in Minnesota, both openly and concealed, as long as they are not switchblades and are not carried with unlawful intent.
- Switchblades and certain other knives (like gravity or butterfly knives) face stricter regulation or prohibition.
- Carrying any knife is illegal in schools, courthouses, and some other government buildings, and local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
- Always check local laws and avoid carrying knives in restricted areas to stay compliant and avoid serious legal consequences.
By understanding these nuances, Minnesota residents and visitors can confidently and lawfully carry pocket knives for utility, work, or recreation-while avoiding situations that could lead to criminal charges.
Sources:
- https://arechigo-stokka.com/blog/minnesota-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-minnesota-a-guide-to-legal-carry-and-usage/
- https://www.shieldon.net/minnesota-knife-carrying-rules-what-you-need-to-know/
- https://aacriminallaw.com/understanding-minnesota-knife-laws/