Oregon offers some of the broadest knife rights in the nation, but the law contains nuanced rules about owning, carrying, and concealing different types of knives. This guide details your rights, restrictions, and the most important legal specifics to help you stay compliant.
What Types of Knives Are Legal to Own and Carry in Oregon?
Legal to Own:
All types of knives—including pocket knives, folding knives, fixed blades, daggers, dirks, bowie knives, butterfly (balisong) knives, gravity knives, switchblades, and out-the-front (OTF) knives—are legal to own in Oregon for most adults.
Open Carry:
Oregon law generally allows the open carry (in plain sight) of any knife, regardless of blade length or type, unless you are a convicted felon or local ordinances dictate otherwise.
Concealed Carry Restrictions
While open carry is broadly permitted, the rules change significantly for concealed carry:
Concealment means any carrying method where the knife is not visible to a casual observer, such as in a pocket or under clothing. Breaking these rules is a Class B misdemeanor:
Up to six months in jail
Up to $2,500 in fines
Blade Length: Any Limits?
Oregon State Law:
There is no explicit statewide maximum blade length for knives that can be openly carried.
For concealed carry, many legal experts recommend carrying knives with a blade of 4.75 inches or shorter to avoid law enforcement scrutiny or accidental violations, because court decisions and police interpretations can vary.
Local Ordinances:
Cities or counties may have stricter length rules or broader prohibitions, so always check local regulations if you are unsure.
Restricted Locations
Certain public spaces have stricter rules regardless of the knife type:
Public Buildings/Court Facilities:
It is illegal to possess ANY knife except an ordinary pocketknife with a blade less than four inches within public buildings, schools, and courthouses. Violations may be prosecuted as a felony, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and heavy fines.
Who Cannot Carry Knives in Oregon?
Penalties for Violating Oregon Knife Law
Local Variations and Practical Tips
No Statewide Preemption:
Oregon does not override local knife regulations. City or county laws may be more restrictive, so research accordingly.
Intent and Usage:
Carrying a knife for lawful purposes (work, recreation, utility) is less likely to be scrutinized. Carrying for self-defense or in a threatening manner may invite legal issues.
Stay Informed:
Laws can change—regularly check the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) and consult with local law enforcement or legal professionals for clarity.
Quick Takeaways
Open carry of almost any knife is legal throughout Oregon.
Concealed carry rules are much stricter, especially for automatic, spring, butterfly, dagger, and stiletto knives.
Carrying knives in public buildings and schools is generally prohibited.
Local regulations may exceed state law in strictness—always check your city/county’s rules.
Understanding and respecting Oregon’s knife laws will help you exercise your knife rights responsibly and avoid legal problems.
Sources
[1] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/oregon-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.oregongunlaw.com/post/oregon-knife-laws
[3] https://www.kollielaw.com/single-post/the-oregon-knife-law-guide
[4] https://www.shannonpowelllaw.com/blog/knife-laws-in-oregon
[5] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/oregon-knife-laws/
