Ohio has undergone significant reforms in its knife laws over the past few years, making it one of the most permissive states for knife owners and carriers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding your rights, responsibilities, and the key legal nuances you need to know in 2025.
What Types of Knives Are Legal in Ohio?
- All types of knives are legal to own and carry in Ohio, including pocket knives, folding knives, fixed blades, switchblades, automatic knives, and specialty knives like butterfly or bowie knives.
- There are no state restrictions on blade length or knife type for ownership or carry.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
| Carry Type | Legal Status in Ohio (2025) |
|---|---|
| Open Carry | Legal for all types of knives, with no significant restrictions. |
| Concealed Carry | Legal for all types of knives, as long as the knife is not used as a weapon. |
Key Points:
- Open carry: You can openly carry any knife in Ohio without legal issues, provided you do not use it to threaten or intimidate others.
- Concealed carry: Thanks to Senate Bill 140 (effective April 2021), you can legally carry any knife concealed, unless you use or intend to use it as a weapon against another person.
- A knife is not considered a “deadly weapon” under Ohio law unless it is actually used as a weapon.
Senate Bill 140 and Legal Reforms
- Senate Bill 140 (enacted April 2021) redefined knives in Ohio law, removing previous restrictions on the manufacture, sale, and concealed carry of automatic and other knives.
- The bill clarified that knives are not considered weapons unless used as such, which means you cannot be charged with carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) for a knife unless it is used or intended to be used as a weapon.
- Preemption Law: In 2022, Ohio passed a law prohibiting local jurisdictions from enacting stricter knife laws than the state, repealing dozens of local restrictions and ensuring uniformity statewide.
When Can a Knife Become Illegal?
- Intent matters: If you use a knife, or intend to use it, as a weapon to harm or threaten someone, it can be classified as a “deadly weapon,” and you could face criminal charges.
- Restricted locations: Some places, such as schools, courthouses, and certain government buildings, may prohibit knives regardless of state law.
- Local ordinances: While state law preempts local restrictions, always double-check for any unique rules in sensitive locations.
Constitutional Protection
- Knives are recognized as constitutionally protected “arms” in Ohio, not just firearms. This right is now clearly defined in law, ensuring that knife owners and carriers are protected under the state’s right to bear arms.
Practical Tips for Knife Owners in Ohio
- Carry responsibly: Even though you can legally carry most knives, using a knife to threaten, intimidate, or harm others can lead to serious legal consequences.
- Be aware of restricted areas: Schools, government buildings, and private properties may have their own prohibitions—respect posted signs and rules.
- Know your rights: If questioned by law enforcement, understand that carrying a knife is legal unless you are using it as a weapon or are in a restricted area.
- Stay updated: Laws can change. Periodically review the Ohio Revised Code or consult legal experts if you have specific concerns.
Summary Table: Ohio Knife Laws (2025)
| Aspect | Legal Status/Guidance |
|---|---|
| Types of knives | All types legal (including switchblades, automatics, etc.) |
| Open carry | Legal for all knives |
| Concealed carry | Legal for all knives unless used as a weapon |
| Blade length limit | None |
| Local restrictions | Preempted by state law (no stricter local rules allowed) |
| Restricted locations | Schools, courthouses, some government buildings, etc. |
| Use as a weapon | Illegal; knife becomes a “deadly weapon” if used to harm |
| Constitutional protection | Yes, as “arms” under Ohio law |
Ohio residents enjoy broad rights to own and carry knives openly or concealed, thanks to recent reforms. The most important legal distinction is intent: knives are only considered weapons if used as such. Always carry responsibly and be mindful of restricted locations to stay within the law.
Sources:
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/ohio-knife-laws/
- https://ohiosenate.gov/members/kristina-d-roegner/news/senate-passes-roegner-bill-addressing-ohios-knife-laws
- https://www.gafirm.com/legal-blog/what-are-the-ohio-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-ohio-a-comprehensive-overview-of-whats-legal/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/ohio-knife-laws/