Understanding Your Knife Rights in Virginia: A Legal Guide

Virginia’s knife laws are generally moderate, but they contain important distinctions based on the type of knife, how it’s carried (openly or concealed), and where you are. Recent legislative changes have made the rules more permissive in some areas, but significant restrictions remain, especially regarding concealed carry and certain locations.

Types of Knives: What’s Legal to Own?

Ownership: Virginia does not prohibit the ownership of any specific knife type, with the practical exception of “ballistic knives,” which are heavily restricted.
Switchblades and Butterfly Knives: As of July 1, 2023, it is legal to own and carry switchblades (including butterfly knives or balisongs), both openly and concealed, for most adults.

Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed

Open Carry

General Rule: Most knives-including pocket knives, utility blades, dirks, and Bowie knives-can be openly carried without restriction under state law.
Local Ordinances: Some cities or counties may have stricter rules, so always check local regulations, especially in urban areas.

Concealed Carry

Permitted Knives: As of July 1, 2023, adults may carry switchblades and butterfly knives concealed without a permit.
Prohibited Knives: Concealed carry of certain knives remains illegal. These include:
- Dirks
- Bowie knives
- Stilettos
- Ballistic knives
- Machetes
- Razors
- Any weapon “of like kind” to those listed above
Definitions: Virginia courts use dictionary definitions for terms like “dirk” and “bowie knife.” For example, a dirk is a long, straight-bladed dagger, and a bowie knife is a large hunting knife with a blade typically 10–15 inches long.

Knife Length Restrictions

General Public: There is no statewide blade length restriction for carrying knives, except in specific locations.
On School Grounds: Only pocket knives with a folding metal blade under three inches are allowed. All other knives are prohibited on school property, courthouses, and airports.

Special Locations and Restrictions

Schools, Courthouses, Airports: It is unlawful to carry any knife except a pocketknife with a folding blade under three inches in these areas. Violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Religious Worship: Carrying a dangerous weapon, including certain knives, into a place of religious worship is prohibited.
Brandishing: It is illegal to brandish a machete or any bladed weapon with a blade 12 inches or longer in a threatening manner, except in self-defense.

Restrictions on Sale and Transfer

To Minors: It is a misdemeanor to sell, barter, or give a switchblade, dirk, or bowie knife to a minor.
Ballistic Knives: Sale or furnishing of ballistic knives is unlawful.

Penalties for Violations

Misdemeanor Charges: Carrying a prohibited knife concealed, or possessing a restricted knife in a forbidden location, can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, and possible jail time.
Felony Charges: More severe violations, such as possession by a convicted felon or use in a crime, can lead to felony charges.

Key Takeaways

Most knives can be openly carried in Virginia, but concealed carry is restricted for certain types.
Switchblades and butterfly knives are now legal to carry concealed for most adults.
Strict length limits apply only on school property and similar sensitive locations.
Always check local ordinances, as some areas may have additional restrictions.
Never carry any knife with intent to harm or intimidate, as this is a criminal offense.

Understanding and following Virginia’s knife laws is essential to avoid legal trouble. When in doubt, consult the relevant statutes or seek legal advice, especially if you plan to carry knives in sensitive locations or concealed.

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