Hawaii’s legal landscape for pocket knives has undergone significant changes in recent years, culminating in a major update in 2024. Understanding what is legal to own, carry, and use is essential for both residents and visitors. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current laws and practical considerations regarding pocket knives in Hawaii.
Legal Status of Pocket Knives
Single-edged pocket knives are legal to own and carry in Hawaii. There are no statutory blade length restrictions for these knives, and they may be carried either openly or concealed, provided they are not used or intended to be used as a weapon. This makes single-edged pocket knives a practical and lawful choice for everyday carry, outdoor activities, and work-related tasks.
Recent Legislative Changes: HB2342
A landmark change came with the passage of HB2342 in 2024, which repealed longstanding bans on the manufacture, sale, possession, and open carry of previously restricted knives, including switchblades, butterfly (balisong) knives, and gravity knives.
As of this update, these knives are now legal to own and openly carry in Hawaii. However, the law retains a strict ban on concealed carry of these knives. Concealed carry of switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives remains illegal and can result in criminal penalties.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
- Open Carry:
Most legal knives, including pocket knives, switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives, may be openly carried in public. Open carry means the knife is visible and not hidden from view. - Concealed Carry:
Concealed carry is generally permitted for single-edged pocket knives, but remains prohibited for daggers, dirks, switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives. Carrying these restricted knives concealed on your person or in a vehicle is a misdemeanor offense.
Prohibited Knives and Restrictions
- Illegal to Carry (Open or Concealed):
Daggers, dirks, and knuckle knives (such as trench knives) are illegal to carry in any manner—openly or concealed. - Sensitive Locations:
All knives, regardless of type, are prohibited in certain locations, such as schools and some government buildings. Hawaii enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for weapons on school grounds. - Intent Matters:
Even legal knives can become illegal if carried or used with unlawful intent, such as during the commission of a crime. Penalties are significantly increased if a knife is used in a criminal act.
Practical Considerations
- No Statewide Preemption:
Hawaii does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, meaning local jurisdictions could impose additional restrictions, though this is rare. - Private Property:
Businesses and property owners may prohibit knives on their premises, even if state law allows carry9. - Law Enforcement and Military:
There are limited exemptions for law enforcement and military personnel when acting in their official capacity.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Legality in Hawaii (2025)
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-edged pocket knife | Yes | Yes | Yes | No blade length limit |
| Switchblade | Yes | Yes | No | Legal after HB2342, open carry only |
| Butterfly (balisong) | Yes | Yes | No | Legal after HB2342, open carry only |
| Gravity knife | Yes | Yes | No | Legal after HB2342, open carry only |
| Dagger/Dirk | Yes | No | No | Illegal to carry in any manner |
| Knuckle knife | Yes | No | No | Illegal to carry in any manner |
Hawaii’s pocket knife laws are now among the more permissive in the U.S. for ownership and open carry, especially after the 2024 reforms. Single-edged pocket knives can be carried openly or concealed without restriction. Switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives are now legal to own and open carry, but concealed carry of these remains illegal.
Carrying daggers, dirks, or knuckle knives is prohibited. Always be mindful of sensitive locations and private property rules, and remember that intent and use matter under the law. Staying informed and compliant ensures you can enjoy your pocket knife legally and responsibly in Hawaii.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
[2] https://ravencresttactical.com/hawaii-knife-laws/
[3] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-legalizes-butterfly-switchblade-gravity-knives/
[4] https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/hawaii-knife-laws-with-all-new-updates-2022
[5] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-knife-ban-bill-filed/
