Tennessee is considered one of the most “knife-friendly” states in the U.S., offering broad rights for knife owners and carriers. However, there are important rules and exceptions you must know to stay on the right side of the law.
What Knives Are Legal in Tennessee?
- No Bans on Knife Types: Tennessee law does not prohibit the ownership, possession, or carry of any specific type of knife. This includes switchblades, automatic knives, daggers, bowie knives, and knives with blades over 4 inches.
- No Blade Length Restrictions: There are no statewide restrictions on the length of knife blades you can own or carry.
Carrying Knives: Open and Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: You can openly carry any legal knife in Tennessee.
- Concealed Carry: There are no explicit prohibitions against concealed carry of knives, regardless of blade length. However, carrying a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon against another person can result in criminal charges.
- Misleading or Undetectable Knives: Carrying knives disguised as other objects (e.g., cane swords, lipstick knives) or made from materials undetectable by metal detectors is prohibited4.
Where Are Knives Prohibited?
- Schools and School Property: It is illegal to possess or carry knives on any school property, including public and private schools from kindergarten through university. Violations can result in a Class E felony, punishable by up to six years in prison and a $6,000 fine.
- Weapons-Free Zones: Knives are also banned in certain government buildings, especially those owned or operated by the federal or state government.
- Polling Places: As of July 1, 2024, adults may carry pocket knives when voting on school grounds during elections, but this is a specific exception.
Statewide Uniformity and Preemption
- State Preemption: Only the Tennessee state legislature can regulate knife laws. Local governments cannot enact their own knife restrictions, ensuring consistent rules statewide.
Using Knives in Crimes
- Enhanced Penalties: Using a knife in the commission of a crime leads to more severe penalties. The intent to use a knife as a weapon is a key factor in prosecution.
Exceptions and Defenses
- Law Enforcement and Military: Officers and military personnel are generally exempt from knife restrictions while in the performance of their official duties.
- Affirmative Defenses: Carrying a knife for a legitimate school event or with explicit approval may be a valid defense, but this requires clear intent and authorization.
Practical Tips for Compliance
- Always avoid carrying knives on school grounds or in government buildings.
- Do not carry knives disguised as other objects or made from undetectable materials.
- Use knives responsibly and never in a threatening or criminal manner.
- Stay informed about any changes to state law and consult legal counsel if in doubt.
Summary Table: Tennessee Knife Laws
| Aspect | Law/Status |
|---|---|
| Types allowed | All types (no bans) |
| Blade length limit | None |
| Open carry | Legal |
| Concealed carry | Legal |
| Schools | Prohibited (Class E felony) |
| Government buildings | Prohibited |
| State preemption | Yes (no local knife laws) |
| Using knife in a crime | Enhanced penalties |
| Misleading/undetectable | Prohibited |
Tennessee offers broad freedoms for knife owners, but understanding and respecting the location-based restrictions and intent requirements is crucial to avoid legal trouble.
Sources
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-tennessee-a-guide-to-legal-carry-and-use/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/tennessee/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/tennessee-knife-laws/
- https://mrbailinc.com/legal-aspects-of-owning-and-carrying-a-knife-in-tennessee/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/tn-knife-carry-at-polls-bill-signed-by-governor/