Kentucky is among the most permissive states in the U.S. for knife ownership and carry. State law allows adults to own, openly carry, and-under most circumstances-even conceal nearly any type of knife, with very few restrictions on blade type or length. However, there are important details, age limits, and location-based exceptions to be aware of.
Types of Knives: What’s Legal?
- All knives are legal to own and carry: This includes switchblades, automatic knives, gravity knives, butterfly knives (balisongs), and large fixed blades.
- No blade length restrictions: Kentucky law does not set a maximum blade length for knives, whether carried openly or concealed.
- Ordinary pocket and hunting knives: These are specifically excluded from the state’s definition of a “deadly weapon” and can be carried by anyone, including minors, unless otherwise prohibited.
Open Carry
- Legal for all knives: Any knife can be openly carried by anyone in Kentucky, regardless of age or knife type, except in prohibited locations such as schools or certain government buildings.
- No permit required: Open carry does not require a license or permit.
Concealed Carry
- Adults 21 and over: Anyone age 21 or older can carry any knife, including those classified as “deadly weapons,” concealed without a permit, thanks to Kentucky’s “constitutional carry” law.
- Under 21: Those under 21 may only carry an “ordinary pocket knife” or “hunting knife” concealed.
- No intent requirement: The law does not require proof of intent to use the knife as a weapon for a concealed carry violation to occur.
- No clear definition of “ordinary pocket knife”: Courts have not set a precise blade length or features for what counts as “ordinary,” so caution is advised with larger or unusual knives.
Restricted Locations
- Schools: Carrying any knife classified as a deadly weapon (anything other than a pocket or hunting knife) on public or private school property is a felony.
- Government buildings and private property: Some locations, such as courthouses, may prohibit knives entirely. Private property owners can set their own rules.
- Federal property: Federal rules may override state law in certain places.
Local Ordinances
- Partial preemption: Kentucky law limits, but does not completely prohibit, local governments from enacting knife restrictions. Some cities (like Louisville or Lexington) may have additional rules, so always check local ordinances before carrying a knife.
Self-Defense and Use
- Self-defense: You may carry a knife for self-defense, but any use of force must be proportional to the threat.
- Criminal use: Using a knife in a threatening or unlawful way can result in serious criminal charges, regardless of the knife’s legality.
Summary Table: Kentucky Knife Laws
| Category | Rule/Restriction |
|---|---|
| Knife types | All legal (no bans on switchblades, gravity knives, etc.) |
| Blade length | No restrictions |
| Open carry | Legal for all knives, all ages |
| Concealed carry (21+) | Legal for any knife, no permit required |
| Concealed carry (<21) | Only “ordinary pocket” or “hunting” knives |
| Schools | Deadly weapons prohibited (felony offense) |
| Local ordinances | May exist-check city/county rules |
| Restricted locations | Schools, courthouses, federal buildings, private property |
Key Takeaways
- Kentucky knife laws are highly permissive for adults, with almost no restrictions on type or blade length for open or concealed carry.
- Minors and those under 21 face more limits on concealed carry.
- Knives are prohibited in schools and certain other locations, and local rules may apply.
- Always use knives responsibly-misuse can lead to criminal charges.
For the most up-to-date details or if you have unique circumstances (such as a prior felony conviction), consult the latest Kentucky statutes or a qualified attorney.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/kentucky/
- https://knifeade.com/kentucky-knife-law/
- https://dailycarryco.com/blogs/everydaycarry/understanding-and-caring-for-gravity-knives-in-kentucky
- https://www.shokuninusa.com/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa