Understanding knife laws in Hawaii is crucial for residents and visitors alike, especially following recent legislative changes. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current regulations regarding knife ownership and carry in the state.
General Knife Ownership Laws
Hawaii has strict regulations governing knife ownership. The following types of knives are generally permitted:
- Bowie knives and large non-automatic knives
- Throwing stars and throwing knives
- Disguised knives, such as pen knives and lipstick knives
- Non-metallic knives that are undetectable
However, certain knives are prohibited:
- Switchblades
- Butterfly (balisong) knives
- Gravity knives
- Knives with knuckles (e.g., trench knives)
Violating these ownership laws can result in misdemeanor charges, which may include confiscation of the weapon.
Carrying Knives in Hawaii
Legal Carry Types
Hawaii allows for the open carry of certain types of knives, particularly:
- Single-edged pocket knives: These can be carried openly or concealed without any length restrictions.
Prohibited Carry Types
The following types of knives are illegal to carry, whether openly or concealed:
- Daggers
- Dirks
- Any knife that could be classified as a deadly weapon under HRS § 134-51
Carrying these prohibited knives can lead to severe legal consequences, including potential arrest.
Recent Legislative Changes: HB2342
In 2024, Hawaii passed House Bill 2342 (HB2342), which significantly altered the landscape of knife laws. Key changes include:
- The repeal of bans on the manufacture, sale, possession, and transportation of butterfly knives, switchblades, and gravity knives.
- Open carry of these previously restricted knives is now allowed; however, concealed carry remains illegal.
- Increased penalties for using these knives in the commission of a crime.
This legislative change has been hailed as a victory for knife owners in Hawaii, providing greater freedom while maintaining strict controls to ensure public safety.
Restrictions and Considerations
Despite the relaxed regulations regarding certain types of knives, it is essential to remain aware of specific restrictions:
- Carrying any knife on school grounds is strictly prohibited.
- Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions on knife carry in certain areas.
Knife owners should always stay informed about local laws and any updates to state regulations to avoid legal issues.
While Hawaii has made strides in relaxing some knife ownership laws, it remains critical for individuals to understand what is permissible and to adhere strictly to the regulations to ensure safety and compliance.
Sources
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/hawaii-knife-laws-with-all-new-updates-2022
- https://edc.ninja/hawaii-knife-laws/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-legalizes-butterfly-switchblade-gravity-knives/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/hawaii-knife-laws/
