Arkansas is recognized as one of the most knife-friendly states in the U.S., with laws that are notably permissive regarding knife ownership and carry. However, there are important details and exceptions every resident and visitor should know.
What Knives Are Legal in Arkansas?
No Banned Types: There are no restricted or forbidden knives under Arkansas state law. This includes switchblades, balisongs, daggers, swords, throwing knives, and even kitchen knives—all are legal to own and carry.
Blade Length: There is no statewide restriction on blade length. The previous blade length limit was repealed, so you may carry knives of any size.
Carrying Knives: Open and Concealed
Open Carry: Open carry of knives is generally permitted without restriction on type or length.
Concealed Carry: Concealed carry is also legal for all knives, provided you do not intend to use the knife unlawfully as a weapon against another person.
Intent Matters: The key legal issue is intent. Carrying a knife with the purpose to unlawfully employ it as a weapon is a criminal offense and can result in a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500.
Where Knives Are Restricted
Public Buildings: It is illegal to carry knives in publicly owned buildings or facilities, such as courthouses and government offices.
Schools: Carrying knives on school property is prohibited, with limited exceptions (e.g., certain Department of Transportation-controlled areas).
Correctional Facilities: Possession or use of weapons, including knives, by incarcerated persons is prohibited.
Minors and Deadly Weapons
Supplying Minors: Furnishing a deadly weapon (which can include certain knives) to a minor is a criminal offense.
Preemption Law (2025 Update)
Statewide Uniformity: As of 2025, Arkansas enacted a knife law preemption statute (Act 161), which prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances more restrictive than state law regarding the ownership, transfer, transportation, carrying, or possession of knives and knife-making components. This means state law now overrides any stricter local knife ordinances, ensuring uniformity across Arkansas.
Law Enforcement and Exceptions
Exemptions: Law enforcement officers, security guards, correctional officers, and members of the armed forces may be exempt from some restrictions1.
Practical Advice
Intent Is Crucial: Always carry knives for lawful purposes (utility, work, collection, recreation). Do not carry with the intent to use as a weapon against others.
Avoid Restricted Areas: Never bring knives into schools, government buildings, or correctional facilities.
Stay Updated: While state law is now uniform, always confirm the latest regulations, especially when traveling.
Table
| Knife Type/Carry | Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Any type/any length | Yes | No state restriction on type or length |
| Open carry | Yes | Legal statewide |
| Concealed carry | Yes | Legal unless intent to use unlawfully |
| Public buildings | No | Prohibited |
| Schools | No | Prohibited |
| Supplied to minors | No | Illegal to furnish deadly weapons to minors |
| Local restrictions | No longer apply | State law preempts local ordinances (as of 2025) |
You can legally own and carry virtually any knife, openly or concealed, anywhere in Arkansas—except in schools, public buildings, or if you intend to use it unlawfully. As of 2025, state law preempts local restrictions, ensuring consistent knife rights across Arkansas.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/arkansas/
[2] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/arkansas-knife-law-preemption-2025/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/arkansas-knife-laws/
[4] https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Acts/FTPDocument?path=%2FACTS%2F2025R%2FPublic%2F&file=161.pdf&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R
[5] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/arkansas-knife-law-preemption-signed/
