Understanding Your Knife Rights in Mississippi: A Legal Guide
Ownership and Possession
In Mississippi, most types of knives are legal to own and possess. There are no specific prohibitions on knife types based on characteristics or blade length. This includes:
- Pocket knives
- Bowie knives
- Dirk knives
- Butcher knives
- Switchblade knives
- Folding knives (e.g., Swiss Army-style multi-tools)
Carrying Laws
Open Carry
Open carry of knives is generally permitted in Mississippi, regardless of blade length or type.
Concealed Carry
Mississippi’s concealed carry laws are relatively lenient. While it is generally legal to carry concealed knives, there are some restrictions:
- It is a violation to carry concealed bowie knives, dirk knives, butcher knives, and switchblade knives, with some exceptions.
- Pocket knives are not considered “deadly weapons” and can be carried concealed.
Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
Certain locations in Mississippi restrict knife possession:
- Educational property: Weapons, including knives, are not permitted.
- Government buildings: Local laws may restrict carrying knives.
Age Restrictions
- Minors (under 18) are prohibited from possessing or carrying deadly weapons.
- It is unlawful for parents to knowingly allow minor children to possess or carry bowie knives, butcher knives, switchblade knives, or dirks.
Additional Legal Considerations
- Convicted felons are prohibited from possessing bowie knives, butcher knives, switchblade knives, or dirks.
- It is illegal to provide certain knives to minors or intoxicated persons.
- Self-defense with a knife is legal if the person reasonably believes they are in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.
Recent Legislative Efforts
In 2019, a bill (HB 950) was introduced to remove “Bowie knife, dirk knife, butcher knife and switchblade knife” from the deadly weapons statutes in Mississippi. However, as of 2025, these restrictions remain in place. While Mississippi’s knife laws are generally permissive, it’s crucial to be aware of the restrictions on concealed carry for certain knife types and the prohibition of knives in specific locations. Always check for the most recent updates to the law and exercise caution when possessing and carrying knives in Mississippi.
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/mississippi/
- https://knifeade.com/mississippi-knife-law/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/mississippi-knife-laws/
- https://midsouthgunlawyer.com/ms-weapon-law/pocket-knives-ms/
- https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/knife-rights-mississippi-knife-law-reform-bill-introduced.1640222/
