Oklahoma is recognized for having some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, but there are still important rules and exceptions every knife owner should know. Here’s a comprehensive overview to help you stay within the law.
What Types of Knives Are Legal?
- Most knives are legal to own and carry in Oklahoma, including folding knives, hunting knives, automatic (switchblade) knives, and large fixed-blade knives.
- Bill No. 1159 (effective since 2016) removed previous bans on daggers and bowie knives, making a wider range of knives legal for carry.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
| Carry Type | Legal Status | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | Permitted | You can openly carry nearly any type of knife in most public places. |
| Concealed Carry | Restricted | Concealed carry is allowed, but larger or “offensive” knives (e.g., blades over 4 inches or certain automatic knives) may be subject to stricter rules or require special caution. Smaller folding knives (under 4 inches) are generally safer for concealed carry. |
Where Are Knives Prohibited?
- Schools and School Property: Carrying knives on school grounds is strictly prohibited, with exceptions only for specific educational or recreational purposes under supervision.
- Government Buildings: Knives are typically banned in government facilities.
- Other Restricted Areas: Certain public events or locations may have additional restrictions.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform Laws: Oklahoma has a statewide preemption law, meaning local governments cannot enact knife laws stricter than the state’s. This ensures consistent regulations across the state.
Penalties for Violations
- Fines and Confiscation: Violating knife laws, especially in restricted areas, can result in fines and confiscation of your knife.
- Criminal Charges: Bringing a knife into a school or government building, or repeated violations, can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, potentially resulting in jail time.
- Intent Matters: Carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon can lead to more severe penalties.
Special Exemptions
- Law Enforcement & Permits: Certain individuals, such as law enforcement officers or those with special permits, may have exemptions for carrying knives in otherwise restricted areas.
- Hunting & Fishing: Knives used for lawful recreational activities like hunting or fishing are generally allowed.
Quick Tips for Legal Knife Carry in Oklahoma
- Open carry is broadly allowed for most knives.
- For concealed carry, choose knives with blades under 4 inches to avoid legal issues.
- Never bring knives onto school grounds or into government buildings.
- Intent and context matter: Use your knife as a tool, not as a weapon.
Oklahoma’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the country, allowing open carry of nearly all knives and limited restrictions on concealed carry.
However, always avoid carrying knives in schools, government buildings, or restricted public events, and use caution when concealing larger or potentially “offensive” knives. Staying informed and responsible ensures you enjoy your knife rights legally and safely.
Sources:
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/oklahoma-knife-laws/
- https://www.shokuninusa.com/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-oklahoma-know-your-rights-and-restrictions/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/oklahoma/