Colorado’s knife laws are among the most detailed in the nation, balancing the rights of individuals with public safety concerns. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can-and cannot-legally do with knives in Colorado as of 2025.
Open Carry: Broad Rights with Few Restrictions
- Open Carry is Legal: You may openly carry most types of knives in Colorado, regardless of blade length, as long as the knife is not classified as illegal (such as a ballistic knife or a blackjack).
- Local Ordinances: Some cities may have additional restrictions, so always check local laws, especially in places like Denver.
Concealed Carry: Blade Length Is Key
- General Rule: You can legally carry a knife concealed if the blade is 3.5 inches or shorter. This applies to both folding and fixed-blade knives.
- Longer Blades: Concealed carry of knives with blades longer than 3.5 inches is illegal, unless you fall under a specific exception (see below).
- No Permit Required: Colorado does not require a concealed weapons permit for legal knives, but always confirm with your county sheriff if unsure.
Illegal Knives and Exceptions
| Knife Type | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ballistic knives, blackjacks | Illegal | Illegal | Prohibited statewide |
| Switchblades | Legal (except some cities) | Legal (except some cities) | Check local laws (e.g., Denver) |
| Legal knives (not ballistic) | Legal | Legal if ≤ 3.5” | Most common knives |
| Hunting/fishing knives | Legal | Legal (any length) | Must be used for sports/hunting |
- Ballistic Knives: Completely banned. Possession is a felony.
- Switchblades: Legal in most of Colorado, but some cities (notably Denver) ban them.
- Hunting and Fishing Knives: Exempt from blade length restrictions if used for hunting or fishing. You must be able to prove the knife is for this purpose if questioned by law enforcement.
Knife-Free Zones and Special Restrictions
- Schools: All knives are banned on school property, regardless of blade length or purpose. Violations can result in felony charges.
- Other Restricted Locations: Certain government buildings, courthouses, and similar locations may have additional knife bans.
Penalties for Violations
- Concealed Carry Violation (Blade > 3.5”): Class 1 misdemeanor; up to 364 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Ballistic Knife Possession: Class 5 felony for the first offense; 1–3 years in prison and/or $1,000–$100,000 fine.
- Knife on School Grounds: Class 6 felony; 1–18 years in prison and/or $1,000–$100,000 fine.
Defending Your Rights
- Affirmative Defense: If you are charged with illegal knife possession but were using the knife for hunting or fishing, you must raise this as an affirmative defense and be prepared to show evidence.
- Check Local Laws: Some municipalities have stricter rules, especially regarding switchblades and open carry. Always verify city and county regulations before carrying knives in unfamiliar areas.
Quick Reference Table: Colorado Knife Carry Laws
| Scenario | Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open carry, any legal knife | Yes | Except ballistic knives, blackjacks |
| Concealed carry, blade ≤ 3.5” | Yes | Most knives |
| Concealed carry, blade > 3.5” | No | Exception: hunting/fishing use |
| Carrying any knife on school property | No | Felony offense |
| Possession of ballistic knife | No | Felony offense |
| Switchblade carry | Varies by city | Legal statewide, banned in some cities |
Summary
- Open carry is broadly allowed for most knives.
- Concealed carry is limited to knives with blades 3.5 inches or shorter, except for hunting and fishing knives.
- Ballistic knives are always illegal.
- All knives are banned on school property.
- Local restrictions may apply, so always check city and county ordinances.
Staying informed and following these guidelines will help you exercise your knife rights legally and responsibly in Colorado.
Sources:
- https://www.shouselaw.com/co/defense/laws/knife-laws/
- https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/colorado-knife-laws-what-you-can-cannot-1765261/
- https://davidfoley.net/blog/3-things-to-know-about-carrying-a-knife-in-colorado/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/colorado/