Missouri’s knife laws are considered relatively permissive, but there are important distinctions regarding what types of knives you can carry, how you can carry them, and where you can take them. Here’s a comprehensive look at what the law says about pocket knives in Missouri as of 2025.
Definition and Legal Status of Pocket Knives
Missouri law specifically defines “ordinary pocketknives” as folding knives with blades not longer than four inches. These knives are largely unrestricted and may be carried openly or concealed by anyone, including minors.
There are no statewide prohibitions on owning or carrying most types of knives, including pocket knives, Bowie knives, hunting knives, and even switchblades, as long as federal laws are not violated.
Concealed Carry Laws
- Ordinary Pocket Knives: You may legally carry an ordinary pocketknife (folding blade not exceeding four inches) concealed without any permit or special restriction.
- Other Knives: Concealed carry of knives with blades longer than four inches, or those not classified as ordinary pocketknives, is generally prohibited unless you have a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit. Even with a permit, certain locations remain off-limits.
- Switchblades: Switchblades and automatic knives are legal to own and carry in Missouri, provided they do not violate federal law (such as the Federal Switchblade Act, which restricts interstate transport).
Open Carry Laws
Open carry of most knives, including those with blades longer than four inches and fixed-blade knives, is generally allowed in Missouri. However, local ordinances may impose stricter regulations, so it’s advisable to check city or county laws before carrying a knife openly in urban areas.
Location-Based Restrictions
There are specific locations where carrying any knife, including pocket knives, is prohibited. These include:
- Schools and school buses
- Courthouses and government buildings
- Polling places on election day
- Bars and establishments serving alcohol
Violating these location-based restrictions can result in criminal charges.
Minors and Knife Ownership
Missouri law does not prohibit minors from owning or carrying knives. The same rules regarding blade length and carry methods apply to both adults and minors.
Summary Table
| Knife Type | Concealed Carry (No Permit) | Open Carry | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary pocketknife (≤4” blade) | Yes | Yes | No permit required |
| Folding knife (>4” blade) | No | Yes | Permit needed for concealed carry |
| Fixed-blade knife | No | Yes | Permit needed for concealed carry |
| Switchblade/automatic knife | Yes (if ≤4” blade) | Yes | Must comply with federal law |
| Minors carrying knives | Yes (same as adults) | Yes | No age-based prohibition |
Key Takeaways
- Ordinary pocketknives with blades of four inches or less can be carried openly or concealed by anyone in Missouri.
- Concealed carry of larger or non-pocket knives generally requires a permit, and even then, is restricted in certain locations.
- Open carry is broadly permitted, but local ordinances may apply.
- Switchblades are legal under state law, but federal restrictions may still apply.
- There are no special restrictions for minors regarding pocket knives.
Understanding these distinctions will help you stay compliant with Missouri’s knife laws and avoid legal trouble. Always check for local regulations if you plan to carry a knife in specific cities or public spaces.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/missouri/
- https://www.sindellaw.com/blog/2023/07/missouri-knife-laws/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/missouri/comments/g6fe2k/concealed_carry_fixedblade_knife_in_mo/
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/missouri-knife-laws/