Mississippi’s knife laws are generally permissive, but important restrictions and nuances exist regarding the types of knives allowed, methods of carry, and where knives may be possessed. Here’s a comprehensive guide to your knife rights and responsibilities in the Magnolia State.
Types of Knives Permitted
Mississippi law allows the ownership and open carry of almost all types of knives, including:
- Fixed blade knives (e.g., bowie knives, dirks, stilettos, butcher knives)
- Folding knives and pocket knives
- Switchblades and automatic knives
There is no statewide restriction on blade length for most knives, and assisted-opening knives are not specifically addressed in the statutes.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
| Type of Carry | What’s Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Open Carry | All knives may be carried openly, regardless of blade length or type. |
| Concealed Carry | Strictly regulated for certain knives: bowie knives, dirks, butcher knives, and switchblades cannot be carried concealed outside your home, business, or vehicle, unless you have a concealed weapons permit. |
- Concealed Carry Permit: A concealed weapons permit allows you to carry these knives concealed, but only under certain circumstances. The law is less clear about whether a handgun permit covers knives, so caution is advised.
- Pocket Knives: Traditional pocket knives are generally not considered “deadly weapons” and are not prohibited from concealed carry, but local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
Restricted Locations
Mississippi law prohibits carrying knives—openly or concealed—into certain locations, including:
- Schools and school events
- Places of worship
- Public transit facilities
- Courthouses and secure government buildings
- Private property and places of employment where posted or prohibited by policy
- Public parks and convention centers
Carrying a knife in these locations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the location and circumstances. For example, carrying a weapon onto school property is a felony.
Age and Criminal History Restrictions
- Minors: It is illegal to sell or gift knives to anyone under 18, except by a parent or guardian.
- Felons: Convicted felons are prohibited from possessing bowie knives, dirk knives, butcher knives, switchblades, and other specified weapons unless they have received a pardon or certificate of rehabilitation. Violation is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
Exemptions and Special Cases
- Home, Business, and Vehicle: You may carry any knife, concealed or open, on your own property, at your home, business, or in your vehicle.
- Sporting and Historical Use: Knives used for hunting, fishing, reenactments, or as part of a sport or educational activity are generally exempted from restrictions.
- Law Enforcement and Military: Officers and active-duty military are exempt from most knife restrictions while on duty.
Penalties for Violations
Penalties range from misdemeanors (up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine) for most violations, to felonies (up to 10 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine) for carrying prohibited knives as a convicted felon or bringing a weapon onto school property.
Key Takeaways
- Open carry of knives is broadly legal.
- Concealed carry of bowie knives, dirks, butcher knives, and switchblades is restricted without a permit and outside of your home, business, or vehicle.
- Certain locations (schools, courthouses, etc.) are always off-limits.
- Minors and felons face additional prohibitions.
- Local ordinances may impose stricter rules, so always check city or county laws.
Staying informed and exercising caution ensures you remain within your rights while carrying a knife in Mississippi.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/mississippi-knife-laws/
[2] https://govpn.info/mississippi-knife-laws-essential-features-and-legal-guidance/
[3] https://midsouthgunlawyer.com/ms-weapon-law/pocket-knives-ms/
[4] https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/2020/title-97/chapter-37/subchapter-generalprovisions/section-97-37-5/
[5] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/mississippi/
