Kentucky has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, especially following the adoption of “constitutional carry” in 2019. However, there are important distinctions and restrictions to be aware of, particularly regarding concealed carry, age, and location.
What Knives Are Legal to Own and Carry?
- No Banned Knife Types:
Kentucky law does not ban any specific type of knife. You may legally own and carry any knife, including switchblades, gravity knives, Bowie knives, daggers, and more. - No Blade Length Limit:
There are no statewide restrictions on blade length for any knife.
Open Carry
- Any Knife, Any Age:
Anyone, including minors, may openly carry any type of knife, provided they are not violating another law (e.g., trespassing, intent to use unlawfully).
Concealed Carry
- Age 21 and Over:
If you are 21 or older, you may carry any knife-including those classified as “deadly weapons”-concealed without a permit, thanks to Kentucky’s constitutional carry law. - Under Age 21:
If you are under 21, you may only conceal carry an “ordinary pocket knife” or “hunting knife” without a permit. Concealing any other type of knife (classified as a “deadly weapon”) is not allowed unless you have a concealed deadly weapon permit. - Definition of “Deadly Weapon”:
Kentucky law defines a deadly weapon as any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools:
It is a Class D felony to carry any deadly weapon-including most knives-on K-12 school property, school buses, or at school events. Ordinary pocket or hunting knives are the only exceptions. - Government Buildings:
Carrying knives is typically prohibited in courthouses, government buildings with metal detectors, and certain other secure locations. - Private Property:
Private businesses and property owners may prohibit knives on their premises. Look for posted signs and comply with requests to leave or disarm.
Local Ordinances and Preemption
- Statewide Preemption:
Kentucky law largely preempts local knife ordinances, meaning cities and counties generally cannot enact stricter knife laws than the state. However, some older local ordinances may still be on the books, especially in Louisville and Lexington, so it’s wise to check local regulations.
Transport and Vehicles
- Knives in Vehicles:
You may keep knives in your vehicle, and no organization (including employers) may prohibit you from doing so, as long as you are otherwise legally entitled to possess the weapon.
Penalties for Violations
- Unlawful Possession or Use:
Using a knife in a threatening or criminal manner can result in charges such as menacing or terroristic threatening, regardless of the knife’s legality. - Restricted Locations:
Carrying a knife in prohibited places (such as schools or certain government buildings) can result in felony charges.
Table
| Carry Type | Age 21+ | Under 21 |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | Any knife | Any knife |
| Concealed Carry | Any knife | Ordinary pocket or hunting knife only |
Key Takeaways
- Kentucky allows open carry of any knife for all ages.
- Anyone 21 or older can carry any knife concealed without a permit.
- Those under 21 can only conceal ordinary pocket or hunting knives.
- Knives are banned on school property (except pocket/hunting knives) and in certain government buildings.
- State law preempts most local knife restrictions, but check local ordinances in major cities.
- Always comply with posted signs and private property rules.
For the most current legal advice or if you have a unique situation, consult a qualified attorney or local law enforcement.
Sources
[1] https://baldanilaw.com/kentucky-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.survivalsullivan.com/kentucky-knife-laws/
[3] https://knifeade.com/kentucky-knife-law/
[4] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/kentucky/
[5] https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/ky-gun-laws/