California has some of the strictest and most detailed knife laws in the country. Whether you’re a resident, visitor, or collector, it’s crucial to understand what knives are legal to own and carry, how you can carry them, and the penalties for violations.
Legal vs. Illegal Knives in California
Legal Knives
- Folding Knives: Legal to own and carry, provided they are in the closed position when carried. This includes pocket knives and most non-locking or slip-joint folding knives.
- Fixed-Blade Knives: Legal to own and carry openly (not concealed). Must be worn in a sheath suspended from the waist if carried in public.
- Pocket Knives: Allowed, as long as they don’t have automatic deployment features.
Illegal Knives
- Switchblades: Any knife with a blade 2 inches or longer that opens automatically (by button, wrist flick, or similar mechanism) is illegal to carry, possess in public, or transfer.
- Ballistic Knives: Completely banned under state law.
- Disguised Knives: Knives disguised as everyday objects, such as cane swords, belt buckle knives, or lipstick knives, are prohibited.
- Undetectable Knives: Knives not detectable by metal detectors are illegal.
Carrying Restrictions
| Knife Type | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folding Knife (closed) | Yes | Yes | Must be closed when carried |
| Fixed-Blade (dirk/dagger) | Yes | No | Must be openly carried in sheath at waist |
| Switchblade (≥2” blade) | No | No | Illegal to carry or possess in public |
- Open Carry: Fixed-blade knives (including dirks and daggers) must be carried openly in a sheath at the waist. Concealing them is illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
- Concealed Carry: Folding knives may be carried concealed if they are in the closed position. Carrying a concealed dirk or dagger is a “wobbler” offense (can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony).
- Public Spaces: Carrying knives is often restricted in government buildings, schools, and public transportation areas. For example, fixed blades over 4 inches are prohibited in public buildings, and blades over 2.5 inches are banned on school grounds.
Local Ordinances
Some California cities have stricter laws:
- Los Angeles: Illegal to carry any knife with a blade longer than 3 inches in public.
- Glendale: Additional restrictions may apply in parks and public spaces.
Penalties for Violations
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $1,000 for carrying an illegal knife or violating carry laws.
- Felony: More severe cases (such as intent to harm or repeat offenses) can result in prison time of up to three years and fines up to $10,000.
Self-Defense and Knife Use
While you have the right to self-defense in California, using a knife for self-defense can still result in criminal charges depending on the circumstances. The legality will depend on whether your possession and use of the knife complied with state and local laws.
Key Takeaways
- Folding knives are generally legal if closed when carried.
- Fixed-blade knives must be carried openly in a sheath at the waist—never concealed.
- Switchblades with blades 2 inches or longer, ballistic knives, and disguised knives are illegal.
- Local laws may impose stricter restrictions—always check city ordinances.
- Penalties for violations can be severe, especially for concealed carry of dirks/daggers or possession of illegal knives.
Know your knife, how you carry it, and local rules. When in doubt, carry folding knives closed and fixed blades openly in a sheath at the waist. Never carry switchblades or disguised knives. Violations can lead to serious criminal charges, so stay informed and cautious.
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/california/
- https://kntrialattorneys.com/blog/california-knife-laws-whats-legal-whats-not-in-2025/
- https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/penal-code/17235/
- https://tkellknives.com/is-it-legal-to-carry-a-knife-in-california-know-the-law/
- https://www.aerlawgroup.com/california-knife-laws/
