Understanding the Legal Landscape of Pocket Knives in Illinois

General Regulations and Restrictions

Possession, manufacture, and sale of switchblades and ballistic knives are prohibited under 720 ILCS 5/24-1. Municipalities in Illinois, like Chicago, can enact stricter knife laws. For example, Chicago prohibits carrying knives with a blade length exceeding 2 ½ inches. Carrying “deadly weapons” in places serving alcohol or where you have to pay to enter is also illegal.

Key Statutes and Legal Interpretations

Several sections of the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) are relevant to knife ownership and carry:

• 720 ILCS 5/24-1: Prohibits the possession, manufacture, and sale of switchblades and ballistic knives.
• 720 ILCS 5/21-6: Defines unauthorized possession or storage of weapons, including knives with blades longer than 3 inches.
• 720 ILCS 5/24-1 (a) (1): Outlines the illegality of switchblade karambits.
• 720 ILCS 5/24-1 (a) (2): Addresses the use of knives “unlawfully against another”.
• 105 ILCS 5/10-22.6: Pertains to the carrying of knives by minors and the associated penalties for guardians.

Recent legal cases have influenced the interpretation of these statutes:

• People v. Smith (2018) examined the definition of a switchblade under Illinois law.
• People v. Johnson (2019) addressed the legality of carrying certain types of knives in public spaces.

Practical Information on Knife Carry

Pocket knives are legal to own and carry if the blade is smaller than 3 inches1. Fixed blade knives can be carried openly or concealed, but restrictions apply to blades longer than 3 inches on public property1.

Restrictions and Exceptions

Switchblade knives, also known as automatic knives, are illegal to own and carry unless the individual possesses a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. People over 21 with a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card can carry switchblades, but local laws might also apply. Knives with blades measuring 3 inches or more are subject to stricter regulations; carrying these knives in public without a valid reason is punishable, especially in regulated places such as schools or courthouses.

Penalties for Minors

Guardians of minors under 18 found carrying a knife may face a penalty of $600, as per 105 ILCS 5/10-22.6.

Consequences of Violations

Violations of knife laws can lead to severe penalties. Carrying a switchblade without a FOID card or a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches in a prohibited area can lead to a Class A misdemeanor, which could result in up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. In cases involving unlawful intent, the charges could escalate to a felony.