Understanding Your Knife Rights in Pennsylvania: A Legal GuidePennsylvania’s knife laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, making it important for residents and visitors to stay informed about their rights and responsibilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to knife laws in Pennsylvania as of 2025:
Legal Knives in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania now allows ownership and carry of a wide variety of knives, including:
- Pocket knives
- Bowie knives
- Butterfly (balisong) knives
- Hunting knives
- Automatic knives (as of November 3, 2022)
The removal of automatic knives from the “offensive weapons” category has expanded the rights of knife owners in the state.
Carry Regulations
Pennsylvania’s knife carry laws are relatively permissive:
- Open carry is generally allowed for legal knives
- Concealed carry is permitted for lawful purposes
- There is no specific blade length restriction at the state level
However, it’s crucial to note that carrying any knife with criminal intent remains illegal.
Restricted Locations
While knife rights have expanded, certain locations still prohibit knife possession:
- Schools (K-12, public and private)
- Courthouses and court facilities
- Some local jurisdictions may have additional restrictions
Local Ordinances
Pennsylvania does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, meaning local jurisdictions can enact stricter regulations. For example:
- Philadelphia has a restrictive ordinance prohibiting possession of any knife on public streets or property
Always check local laws when traveling within the state.
Legal Considerations
When carrying or using knives in Pennsylvania, keep in mind:
- The knife must serve a “common lawful purpose”
- Intent matters – carrying a knife with criminal intent is illegal
- The “curio exception” allows possession of otherwise prohibited knives for collecting or theatrical use
Recent Changes
The most significant recent change to Pennsylvania knife laws occurred in 2022:
- HB 1929 (Act 119 of 2022) removed automatic knives from the “offensive weapons” definition, legalizing their manufacture, sale, and possession
This change has aligned Pennsylvania more closely with neighboring states and expanded options for both recreational and professional knife users.
Pennsylvania’s knife laws have become more permissive in recent years, particularly with the legalization of automatic knives. However, it’s crucial to use knives responsibly, be aware of local ordinances, and avoid carrying in restricted locations. Always prioritize safety and lawful use to fully exercise your knife rights in Pennsylvania.
Sources
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://knifeade.com/pennsylvania-knife-law/
- https://www.pittsburghcriminalattorney.com/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-pa-understanding-pennsylvanias-carry-regulations/