Indiana’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States, allowing adults to own and carry a wide variety of knives with few statewide restrictions. However, there are important exceptions and local variations every knife owner should know to avoid legal trouble.
What Knives Are Legal in Indiana?
- Permitted Knives: Most types of knives are legal to own, carry, and use in Indiana. This includes balisongs (butterfly knives), bowie knives, daggers, automatic (switchblade) knives (since 2013), assisted-opening knives, single-blade throwing knives, and even swords.
- No Statewide Blade Length Limit: Indiana does not restrict the length of knife blades by state law.
- Concealment: There is no requirement to conceal your knife, nor is open carry restricted. You may carry your knife openly or concealed, except in certain prohibited places.
Prohibited Knives and Restrictions
- Ballistic Knives: Completely banned. It is illegal to manufacture, possess, sell, give away, or purchase ballistic knives (knives that can project their blade).
- Chinese Throwing Stars (Shuriken): Also prohibited. These are defined as knives with multiple blades set at different angles, commonly associated with martial arts.
- Detachable Blade Knives: Knives with detachable blades are strictly regulated and generally prohibited.
Where You Cannot Carry Knives
- Schools and School Buses: Carrying any knife on school property or a school bus is illegal, regardless of intent. This includes all types of knives and applies to students, staff, and visitors.
- Airports, Courthouses, and Certain Public Buildings: Knives are generally banned in these locations. Violating these restrictions can result in criminal charges.
- Local Ordinances: Indiana does not have statewide preemption for knife laws. Some cities and towns have stricter rules. For example:
- Merrillville: No pocket knives with blades longer than two inches.
- South Bend and Westfield: Ban knives in public parks.
Always check local laws before carrying a knife in a new city or county.
Age and Intent
- Age Restrictions: There is no explicit statewide age restriction for carrying knives, but minors should exercise caution and consult local rules.
- Intent: Carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully or as a weapon is illegal. Using a knife in a threatening, reckless, or violent manner is a felony.
Penalties for Violations
- Ballistic Knife Violation: Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine).
- Chinese Throwing Star Violation: Class C misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine).
- Knives on School Property: Class B misdemeanor.
- Other Reckless Use: Felony charges if used in a violent or threatening manner.
Summary Table: Indiana Knife Law Quick Facts
| Topic | Indiana State Law |
|---|---|
| Blade Length Limit | None statewide |
| Concealed Carry | Legal, no restrictions |
| Open Carry | Legal, no restrictions |
| Ballistic Knives | Prohibited |
| Chinese Throwing Stars | Prohibited |
| Switchblades/Automatics | Legal since 2013 |
| Schools/Public Buildings | Knives banned |
| Local Ordinance Preemption | No (check local laws) |
| Penalties for Violations | Misdemeanor or felony, depending on offense |
Key Takeaways
- Most knives are legal to own and carry in Indiana, with no blade length or concealment restrictions at the state level.
- Ballistic knives and Chinese throwing stars are strictly prohibited.
- Never carry a knife on school property, school buses, airports, courthouses, or other restricted public buildings.
- Local ordinances may impose stricter rules-always check before carrying.
- Using a knife in a threatening or violent way is a serious crime.
By staying informed and respecting both state and local laws, you can exercise your knife rights safely and legally in Indiana.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/indiana/
- https://www.changeitindiana.org/what-is-indiana-state-law-on-knives
- https://edc.ninja/indiana-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-indiana-understanding-your-rights-and-limits/