Understanding the Legal Landscape of Pocket Knives in Nebraska

Published On: April 28, 2025

General Legality and Definitions

Nebraska law does not prohibit the ownership or open carry of most types of pocket knives, including folding knives, fixed blades, automatic knives, and gravity knives, as long as they are not ballistic knives (knives with a blade that can be launched as a projectile).
The legal definition of a “knife” for weapons law purposes is any knife with a blade over 3.5 inches in length that is capable of inflicting death or serious bodily injury, or any other dangerous instrument capable of such harm.

Concealed Carry Laws

Concealed carry of knives is regulated by blade length:
- It is unlawful to carry any knife with a blade longer than 3.5 inches concealed on your person.
- Knives with blades 3.5 inches or shorter may be carried concealed.
The Nebraska Supreme Court has held that concealment means hidden from “ordinary observation,” not necessarily absolute invisibility. For example, a knife clipped inside a pocket may still be considered concealed depending on how much is visible.
Concealed carry restrictions do not apply on your own property or if you have a valid concealed carry permit.

Open Carry Laws

Open carry of most knives is legal statewide, except for ballistic knives and in certain restricted locations.
Daggers, dirks, and stilettos cannot be carried outdoors, even if open carried.

Age Restrictions

The minimum age to carry a knife in Nebraska is 18, though minors may possess pocket knives under adult supervision with parental permission.

Local Ordinances and Preemption

Nebraska does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, meaning cities like Lincoln and Omaha may have additional restrictions.
However, with the passage of LB77 (2023), local governments are largely preempted from enacting stricter regulations on the ownership, possession, or carry of knives, though some municipalities have challenged this and legal clarity is pending.

Restricted Locations

Knives are generally prohibited on school grounds and certain government properties.
Local ordinances or executive orders may further restrict knife carry on municipal property in some cities.

Penalties

Violating concealed carry laws (carrying a knife with a blade over 3.5 inches concealed) is a Class I misdemeanor for the first offense, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
A second or subsequent offense is a Class IV felony.

Key Points for Pocket Knife Owners

Pocket knives with blades 3.5 inches or less can be carried openly or concealed by adults in most public places in Nebraska.
Always check for local restrictions, especially in Lincoln, Omaha, and on government or school property.
Ballistic knives, throwing stars, and undetectable knives are illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture.
For knives with blades over 3.5 inches, open carry is generally allowed, but concealed carry is prohibited unless on your own property or with a permit.

Legal Question	Rule/Status
Open carry of pocket knives	Legal (except ballistic knives, certain types)
Concealed carry (blade ≤ 3.5 inches)	Legal
Concealed carry (blade > 3.5 inches)	Illegal unless on own property/with permit
Minimum age to carry	18 (exceptions for supervised minors)
Ballistic knives	Illegal
Local ordinances	Some cities have additional restrictions
Schools/government buildings	Knives generally prohibited

Measure your knife blade carefully; there is no statutory guidance on how blade length is measured, so err on the side of caution.
When in doubt, especially in cities with known ordinances or on government property, consult local authorities or legal counsel.
Stay updated on ongoing legal challenges to the 2023 reforms, as local rules may change.

By following these guidelines, residents and visitors can legally carry pocket knives in Nebraska while minimizing legal risk.