Arizona stands out as one of the most knife-friendly states in America, with laws that are both clear and permissive for residents and visitors alike. If you own or carry a knife in Arizona, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential for staying on the right side of the law. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Arizona’s knife laws as of 2025.
Who Can Carry Knives in Arizona?
In Arizona, adults aged 21 and over enjoy broad rights when it comes to knife ownership and carry. The state imposes no restrictions on the type of knife, blade length, or mechanism for adults.
This means that switchblades, butterfly knives, gravity knives, daggers, machetes, and even swords are all legal to own and carry, whether openly or concealed. There is no requirement to obtain a license or permit to carry a knife, regardless of how it is carried.
For individuals under the age of 21, the rules are more restrictive. Minors are generally limited to carrying pocket knives, which are typically defined as folding knives with blades less than four inches in length. Even then, minors must be mindful of additional scrutiny regarding concealed carry and must always comply with location-based restrictions.
Uniform Statewide Law
One of the most important aspects of Arizona’s knife laws is statewide preemption, as established by ARS 13-3120. This statute prohibits cities and counties from enacting their own knife regulations. As a result, knife owners can expect consistent rules throughout the state, whether they are in Phoenix, Tucson, or any smaller municipality.
Location-Based Restrictions
Despite Arizona’s permissive stance, there are important exceptions concerning where knives may be carried. Knives are strictly prohibited on school grounds and in school buildings, government buildings such as courthouses and polling places on election day, correctional facilities, power plants, and the secured areas of airports.
Additionally, private property owners and event organizers have the right to restrict or prohibit knives on their premises, and these rules must be respected.
Violating these location-based restrictions can result in serious legal consequences, including misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the circumstances.
Knives as Tools and Weapons
Under Arizona law, knives are generally considered tools unless they are used or intended to be used as weapons. If a knife is used in the commission of a crime, it is classified as a deadly weapon, and the individual may face enhanced penalties under ARS 13-3101. It is important to remember that while carrying a knife is legal, using it unlawfully can lead to severe legal repercussions.
Prohibited Possessors
Not everyone in Arizona is permitted to possess knives. Individuals classified as prohibited possessors, such as convicted felons, those deemed a danger to themselves or others, or individuals currently serving time, are not allowed to possess deadly weapons, which may include certain knives depending on the context and intent.
Interacting with Law Enforcement
If you are stopped by law enforcement while carrying a knife other than a pocket knife, Arizona law requires you to inform the officer that you are carrying it. This transparency helps ensure safe and lawful interactions with police.
Arizona’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States, allowing adults 21 and over to carry any type of knife openly or concealed without a permit. The law is consistent statewide, with only a few notable exceptions for sensitive locations and prohibited possessors.
However, it is always important to stay informed about current statutes and to respect location-based restrictions to avoid legal trouble. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the Arizona Revised Statutes or seek advice from a qualified attorney.
By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can confidently and legally enjoy knife ownership and carry in the Grand Canyon State.
Sources
[1] https://www.jacksonwhitelaw.com/criminal-defense-law/blog/arizona-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/arizona/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/arizona-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.belenlawfirm.com/blog/criminal-defense-attorney/arizona-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/arizona-knife-laws/
