Minnesota’s knife laws are relatively straightforward at the state level, but important nuances and local ordinances can affect your rights. This guide provides a clear summary of what is legal, what is restricted, and the penalties for violations.
Legal Knife Ownership and Carry
- Most Knives Are Legal: In Minnesota, you may legally own and carry most types of knives, including folding knives, hunting knives, and fixed-blade knives.
- Switchblades Are Illegal: The only type of knife explicitly banned statewide is the switchblade (automatic knife), which opens automatically by button, spring, or similar mechanism. Possession, sale, or transfer of switchblades is a misdemeanor and can result in fines or jail time.
- No Statewide Blade Length Limit: There is no state law restricting the length of knife blades you can carry, either openly or concealed.
- Intent Matters: Carrying any knife with the intent to use it unlawfully as a weapon is illegal and can lead to more severe charges, regardless of the knife type.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
| Carry Method | State Law Status | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | Legal | Most knives permitted; avoid threatening display. |
| Concealed Carry | Legal (except for switchblades and intent to harm) | No permit required, but intent to use as a weapon is illegal. |
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: Carrying any knife on school property is strictly prohibited and can result in felony charges, even if unintentional.
- Courthouses and State Buildings: Knives are banned in courthouses and many government buildings.
- Parks and Local Ordinances: Some cities and counties restrict blade length in public parks (e.g., Ramsey County bans knives with blades 3 inches or longer in parks). Always check local ordinances before carrying.
Special Knife Types
- Butterfly (Balisong) Knives: These may violate concealed weapon laws in some jurisdictions, even if not explicitly banned statewide.
- Gravity Knives: Not specifically banned, but can be considered dangerous weapons depending on use and intent.
Penalties for Violations
- Misdemeanor: Most violations (such as possession of a switchblade) are misdemeanors, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Gross Misdemeanor: More serious violations, such as carrying a prohibited knife near a school, can result in up to a year in jail and $3,000 in fines.
- Felony: Using a knife in a threatening manner or in the commission of a crime can lead to felony charges with substantial prison time and fines.
Practical Tips
- Always check local city and county ordinances before carrying a knife, as some areas have stricter rules than state law.
- Do not carry knives into schools, courthouses, or government buildings.
- Never carry a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon.
- If asked to leave a private business due to carrying a knife, comply immediately to avoid trespassing or escalation.
Summary Table: Minnesota Knife Law Basics
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Legal to Carry (Open) | Legal to Carry (Concealed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folding/Utility | Yes | Yes | Yes | Check local ordinances |
| Fixed Blade | Yes | Yes | Yes | No statewide length limit |
| Switchblade/Auto | No | No | No | Illegal statewide |
| Butterfly/Balisong | Yes* | Yes* | Yes* | May violate some local laws |
| Gravity Knife | Yes | Yes | Yes | Intent and use matter |
*Check local laws for additional restrictions.
Minnesota generally allows the possession and carry of most knives, with the notable exception of switchblades. However, intent, location, and local ordinances can significantly impact your rights. Always verify local regulations and never carry a knife with unlawful intent to ensure you remain within the law.
Sources:
- https://arechigo-stokka.com/blog/minnesota-knife-laws/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/minnesota/comments/lmv9rh/minnesota_knife_laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-minnesota-a-guide-to-legal-carry-and-usage/
- https://aacriminallaw.com/understanding-minnesota-knife-laws/