Arizona is recognized as one of the most permissive states in the U.S. regarding knife ownership and carry, including pocket knives. The state’s legal framework is designed to minimize restrictions and provide clarity for residents and visitors.
Key Legal Provisions
Age and Carry Restrictions
- Individuals aged 21 or older may carry any type of knife—openly or concealed—without restriction on blade length or type.
- Those under 21 may carry a pocket knife (defined as a folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches) concealed or within immediate control in a vehicle.
- There is no statewide minimum age to purchase a knife, though retailers may set their own policies (often 18+).
Definition of Pocket Knife
- Arizona law generally defines a pocket knife as a folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches in length.
- Pocket knives are not considered “deadly weapons” unless used or intended to be used as such in the commission of a crime.
Statewide Preemption
- Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3120 preempts local governments from enacting their own knife laws, ensuring uniformity across the state.
- This means city or county ordinances cannot override state law regarding knife possession or carry.
Concealed vs. Open Carry
- For those 21 and older, there is no distinction between open and concealed carry for any type of knife.
- For those under 21, only pocket knives (folding, blade <4 inches) may be carried concealed or in a vehicle.
- There are no blade length restrictions for those 21 and over.
Prohibited Locations
Regardless of age or type of knife, it is illegal to carry knives in certain places, including:
- K-12 schools (public and private)
- Polling places on election days
- Hydroelectric or nuclear power generating facilities
- Secured areas of airports
- Government buildings and courtrooms
- Private property where knives are explicitly prohibited.
Duty to Disclose
- If stopped by law enforcement, individuals carrying a concealed deadly weapon (excluding pocket knives) must accurately disclose possession if asked.
- Failure to disclose can result in a misdemeanor charge, with harsher penalties for lying or failing to answer.
Special Considerations
- Knives become “deadly weapons” if used or intended to be used unlawfully, such as in the commission of a crime.
- Felons and other prohibited possessors may not carry knives classified as deadly weapons.
- Private venues may set their own restrictions, and these must be respected.
Summary Table: Arizona Pocket Knife Laws
| Category | Under 21 | 21 and Older |
|---|---|---|
| Open carry | Pocket knife only | Any knife |
| Concealed carry | Pocket knife only | Any knife |
| Blade length restriction | < 4 inches (pocket knife) | None |
| Prohibited locations | Applies to all ages/types | Applies to all ages/types |
| Duty to disclose to police | Yes, if asked (concealed deadly) | Yes, if asked (concealed deadly) |
| Statewide preemption | Yes | Yes |
Arizona’s laws make it legal for most people to carry pocket knives and other knives with minimal restrictions. The main limitations involve age, location, and intent. For those 21 and older, almost any knife may be carried openly or concealed, except in specifically restricted locations. For minors, pocket knives (folding, blade under 4 inches) are generally permitted. Always respect private property rules and be aware of the duty to disclose to law enforcement if carrying a concealed deadly weapon.
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/arizona/
- https://www.rideoutlaw.com/carry-a-knife-in-arizona/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/celebrating-a-sharper-future-2024-year-end-review/
- https://www.jacksonwhitelaw.com/criminal-defense-law/blog/arizona-knife-laws/
- https://edc.ninja/arizona-knife-laws/