Montana is widely regarded as one of the most knife-friendly states in the U.S., offering broad freedoms for knife enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and everyday carriers. However, there are key details and exceptions to be aware of to ensure you stay within the law.
General Knife Ownership and Carry
- No Type Restrictions: Montana law does not prohibit the ownership or carry of any specific type of knife. This includes pocket knives, fixed blades, switchblades (automatic knives), OTF (out-the-front) knives, and even large blades like bowie knives or katanas.
- Open Carry: You may openly carry any legal knife in Montana, regardless of blade length or style.
- Concealed Carry: As of the 2017 legislative update, knives are no longer included in the state’s definition of “concealed weapon”—only firearms are. This means you can legally carry any knife, including pocket knives, concealed without a permit.
Blade Length and Location Restrictions
- No Statewide Blade Length Limit: There is no general restriction on the length of knife blades you can carry, openly or concealed, in Montana.
- Schools: The major exception is on school property. Montana law prohibits possessing a knife with a blade of 4 inches or longer (as well as swords or straight razors) in school buildings or on school grounds. Violating this can result in fines up to $500, jail time up to 6 months, or both.
- Government Buildings: Local governments may prohibit knives on their own property or in buildings they own or lease, so always check posted rules when entering courthouses, city halls, or similar locations.
Local Ordinances and Preemption
- State Preemption: Montana law generally preempts local governments from enacting knife regulations stricter than state law. However, local authorities can regulate knives on their own property or in their buildings.
- Check Local Rules: While state law is permissive, always verify local ordinances, especially in cities or counties where you plan to carry a knife.
Age Restrictions
- No Statewide Age Limit: Montana law does not specify a minimum age for knife ownership or carry. However, minors are prohibited from possessing knives on school property, and parents should exercise caution.
Penalties for Violations
- School Grounds: Carrying a knife with a blade of 4 inches or longer on school property is a criminal offense and can result in fines, jail time, or both.
- Other Restricted Areas: Violating knife restrictions in government buildings or other posted locations can also lead to legal consequences.
Practical Guidance
- Everyday Carry: You can legally carry a pocket knife or any other knife for work, recreation, or self-defense throughout Montana, except in restricted locations.
- Schools and Government Buildings: Always leave knives with blades 4 inches or longer at home when visiting schools, and check the rules for government buildings.
- Responsible Use: Using any knife in a threatening or unlawful manner is a crime, regardless of the knife’s legality.
Summary Table
| Knife Type | Legal to Own/Carry? | Concealed Carry Allowed? | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket knife | Yes | Yes | Not on school property (≥4″ blade) |
| Switchblade/Auto | Yes | Yes | Not on school property (≥4″ blade) |
| Fixed blade | Yes | Yes | Not on school property (≥4″ blade) |
| OTF knife | Yes | Yes | Not on school property (≥4″ blade) |
Montana allows the open and concealed carry of pocket knives and most other knives without restriction on blade length, except on school property and certain government buildings. Always check for local rules and use knives responsibly to stay within the law.
Sources:
- https://pocketmontana.com/laws/knife/
- https://knifeade.com/montana-knife-law/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/montana-knife-laws/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cu8nP7n2dvM