South Carolina’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States, allowing adults to own and carry a wide variety of knives, including pocket knives, with relatively few restrictions. However, there are important exceptions and local nuances that every knife owner should know.
What Pocket Knives Are Legal in South Carolina?
- No Statewide Blade Length Limit: South Carolina does not impose a maximum blade length for pocket knives or other knives carried for general purposes.
- Types of Knives Allowed: Pocket knives, folding knives, dirks, daggers, gravity knives, and even switchblades are generally legal to own and carry, provided they are not used with criminal intent.
- Open and Concealed Carry: Both open and concealed carry of pocket knives are legal for most adults. The law only restricts concealed carry if the knife is used or intended to be used in the commission of a crime.
Key Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
- Schools: It is illegal to carry any knife with a blade exceeding two (2) inches on elementary or secondary school property, except for law enforcement or authorized personnel. This applies to both students and visitors.
- Correctional Facilities: Knives are banned in correctional facilities.
- Government Buildings: Carrying knives may be prohibited in some government buildings, courthouses, and similar locations.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities-such as Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville-have their own knife restrictions, which may include stricter blade length limits or bans on certain types of knives, especially when concealed. For example, Charleston prohibits concealed carry of knives with blades longer than three inches.
Statewide Preemption and Local Laws
- Statewide Preemption: South Carolina has a form of constitutional preemption, meaning state law is intended to override local ordinances. However, in practice, major cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville have enacted local knife restrictions that may still be enforced.
- Practical Impact: Knife owners should always check local laws before carrying a pocket knife in a new city, as local ordinances may differ from state law and can result in confiscation or fines.
Criminal Use and Penalties
- Intent Matters: Carrying a pocket knife becomes illegal if it is used, or intended to be used, in the commission of a crime.
- School Violations: Carrying a knife with a blade over two inches on school property is a misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in jail.
- Other Penalties: Using a knife unlawfully or in a threatening manner can lead to more serious charges and penalties.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in South Carolina
| Legal Aspect | State Law Position |
|---|---|
| Blade Length Limit | None statewide (except schools: 2″ max) |
| Open Carry | Legal |
| Concealed Carry | Legal unless used with criminal intent |
| Restricted Locations | Schools, correctional facilities, some gov. bldgs |
| Local Ordinances | May impose stricter rules in some cities |
| Statewide Preemption | Intended, but local enforcement may vary |
| Penalties for Violations | Misdemeanor to felony, depending on offense |
Key Takeaways
- Most pocket knives are legal to own and carry openly or concealed in South Carolina.
- Never carry a knife with a blade over two inches onto school property.
- Local city ordinances may impose stricter restrictions-always check before carrying.
- Using a knife in a crime or with criminal intent is illegal and carries severe penalties.
By understanding both state and local laws, you can carry a pocket knife in South Carolina confidently and legally.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/south-carolina/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-south-carolina-a-comprehensive-legal-guide/
- https://www.blingsting.com/blogs/news/self-defense-weapons-legal-south-carolina
- https://www.shokuninusa.com/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa