Missouri is known for its permissive stance on knife ownership and carry, but there are important details and exceptions every resident and visitor should know. Here’s a comprehensive guide to your knife rights under current Missouri law.
General Knife Laws in Missouri
- No Statewide Ban: Missouri does not ban any specific type of knife at the state level. This means you can legally own and carry almost any kind of knife, including switchblades, automatic knives, and large fixed blades.
- Federal Law Still Applies: Some federal restrictions, such as the Federal Switchblade Act, may apply to certain knives-especially when crossing state lines or using the mail to ship knives.
Concealed Carry of Knives
- Ordinary Pocketknives: You may carry an “ordinary pocketknife” (defined as a folding knife with a blade under four inches) concealed without restriction.
- Other Knives: For knives that are not “ordinary pocketknives”-such as fixed blades, switchblades, or knives with blades longer than four inches-Missouri law allows concealed carry except in certain restricted locations.
- Restricted Locations: It is illegal to carry concealed knives (other than ordinary pocketknives) into places where firearms are prohibited under Section 571.107, such as schools, government buildings, courthouses, and certain private properties.
Open Carry of Knives
- Generally Permitted: Open carry of any type of knife is legal in most public places, unless local ordinances or property owners state otherwise.
- Local Ordinances: Some cities or counties may have stricter rules, so always check local laws before carrying a knife openly or concealed in a new area.
Switchblades and Automatic Knives
- Legal in Missouri: Switchblades and automatic knives are legal to own and carry within Missouri, following the 2012 law change.
- Federal Restrictions: The Federal Switchblade Act restricts interstate commerce, importation, and mailing of switchblades, but does not affect in-state possession for most individuals.
Who Cannot Carry Knives
- Felons and Certain Individuals: Missouri law restricts knife ownership and carry for people with felony convictions or those deemed mentally incompetent.
- Minors: There are no specific state prohibitions on minors carrying knives, but general weapon and school safety laws still apply.
Prohibited Places for Knife Carry
Carrying knives is prohibited in the following places:
- Schools (including school buses and school-sponsored activities)
- Government buildings and courthouses
- Airports and airplanes
- Private properties with posted bans (such as bars or stores)
- Some federal lands and state parks may have their own restrictions
Key Takeaways and Best Practices
- Check Local Laws: Missouri’s state laws are lenient, but local ordinances may be stricter. Always check city or county rules before carrying a knife.
- Restricted Locations: Never carry knives into restricted areas, especially concealed knives that are not ordinary pocketknives.
- Federal Law: Be cautious with switchblades and automatic knives if traveling across state lines or mailing them.
- Responsible Use: Using any knife unlawfully or as a weapon in a crime can result in serious charges, regardless of the knife’s legality.
Summary Table: Missouri Knife Laws
| Knife Type | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Pocketknife | Yes | Yes | Blade under 4 inches |
| Switchblade/Auto | Yes | Yes* | *Not in restricted places |
| Fixed Blade (>4″) | Yes | Yes* | *Not in restricted places |
| Any Knife | Yes | Yes* | *Prohibited in schools, gov. buildings, etc. |
Missouri offers broad rights for knife owners, but understanding the nuances-especially around concealed carry, blade length, and restricted places-is essential for staying on the right side of the law.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/missouri/
- https://www.sindellaw.com/blog/2023/07/missouri-knife-laws/
- https://kxkx.com/is-it-legal-to-carry-a-switchblade-in-missouri/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-missouri-your-guide-to-legal-carry-and-restrictions/