Pennsylvania knife laws generally permit individuals to own various types of knives, but there are restrictions on certain types of knives and how they are carried. It’s essential to understand these regulations to ensure compliance with the law.
Legal Knives
In Pennsylvania, individuals can generally own knives such as pocket knives, Bowie knives, butterfly or Balisong knives, penknives, and hunting knives. Automatic knives are also legal to own for lawful purposes.
Restricted Knives
Pennsylvania law restricts knives considered offensive weapons. While there are no specifically restricted knives at the state level, local restrictions, such as in Philadelphia, may apply. Philadelphia prohibits possessing any knife on public streets or property.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry is permitted as long as there is no intent to use the knife criminally. Carrying a knife concealed is generally prohibited unless it is for a lawful purpose, such as a tool or for use during hunting, fishing, or other lawful activity.
Where Knives Are Prohibited
Possession of any knife is prohibited on school or courthouse grounds.
Exceptions
Members of law enforcement and the military are generally exempt from many knife restrictions. There is also a “curio exception,” which includes the use of a knife for a theatrical performance, temporarily having the knife after taking it from an aggressor, or for lawful use.
Consequences of Violating Knife Laws
Violating Pennsylvania’s knife carrying laws could result in a fine of at least $300 and imprisonment for a minimum of 90 days. Penalties for violating knife laws can also include being banned from certain locations or losing the right to possess knives or other weapons in the future.
Important Considerations
- Local Laws: Pennsylvania does not have a statewide preemption law concerning knives, meaning different counties within the state can set their own knife restrictions.
- Intent: Carrying a knife with intent to harm or for any unlawful purpose is prohibited.
- Automatic Knives: Effective January 2, 2023, restrictions on the commerce, possession, and carry of automatic knives were lifted.
- “Offensive Weapons”: The term “offensive weapons” now refers to items like bombs, machine guns, and other implements meant to inflict serious bodily harm and which serve no common lawful purpose.
- School Property: Pennsylvania law prohibits possessing any knife on school grounds.
Sources:
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://knifeade.com/pennsylvania-knife-law/
- https://www.pittsburghcriminalattorney.com/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/pennsylvania/
