Delaware has historically maintained some of the strictest knife laws in the region, but as of 2025, the legal landscape is shifting. The state’s statutes have long categorized many common knives—including automatic or switchblade knives and those with blades longer than three inches—as “deadly weapons.”
This classification has significant legal consequences, especially when it comes to carrying knives concealed without a permit. However, recent legislative reforms are poised to modernize these rules and better reflect the practical needs of residents.
What Types of Knives Can You Own and Carry?
Currently, Delaware law allows for the open carry of most knives. However, the rules for concealed carry are much more restrictive. Without a Delaware Concealed Deadly Weapon (CCDW) permit, you are only permitted to carry a folding pocketknife with a blade of three inches or less in a concealed manner.
Carrying any other type of knife—such as a fixed-blade knife, a switchblade, or a folding knife with a blade longer than three inches—concealed on your person is considered carrying a deadly weapon. Doing so without the proper permit is illegal and can result in felony charges, with penalties that may include up to two years in prison.
New Legislation and Its Impact
A major change is on the horizon with Senate Bill 108, which has already passed the Delaware Senate and is under review in the House. If this bill becomes law, it will remove the requirement that an “ordinary pocketknife” must be a folding knife, increase the maximum legal blade length for a pocketknife from three inches to 3.75 inches, and legalize the possession and sale of switchblade knives.
These changes would expand the range of knives that Delawareans can lawfully own and carry, provided they are not used in the commission of a crime. Nevertheless, using any knife as a weapon in an assault or other criminal act remains a serious offense with severe penalties.
Concealed Carry Permits and Local Regulations
For those who hold a CCDW permit, Delaware law allows the concealed carry of knives with blades longer than three inches, including types otherwise restricted for concealed carry. The CCDW permit is not limited to firearms; it also covers knives classified as deadly weapons.
However, until Senate Bill 108 is fully enacted, restrictions on automatic knives and certain other types remain in place, even for permit holders.
It is also important to recognize that Delaware does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, meaning individual cities and counties can enact their own, often stricter, regulations. Always check local ordinances before carrying a knife, especially in urban areas.
Special Restrictions: School Zones and Public Spaces
Regardless of the type or length of the knife, Delaware law strictly prohibits carrying knives in safe school and recreation zones. These restrictions apply to everyone, including permit holders, and violations can result in serious legal consequences. The intent is to maintain public safety in spaces frequented by children and families.
Staying Informed and Responsible
Delaware’s constitution protects the right to keep and bear arms, which extends to knives for lawful purposes such as self-defense, hunting, and recreation.
As the law continues to evolve, it is crucial for residents and visitors to stay updated on legislative changes and to comply with both state and local regulations. Using knives responsibly and understanding the boundaries of the law will help ensure your rights are protected while maintaining public safety.
Delaware’s knife laws are in a period of transition, with reforms expected to make ownership and carry rules more practical for everyday citizens. While open carry remains broadly legal, concealed carry is tightly regulated unless you have a CCDW permit.
New legislation may soon expand your rights, but local ordinances and school zone restrictions still apply. Stay informed and exercise your knife rights responsibly to remain on the right side of the law.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/news/akti-celebrates-intro-of-delaware-knife-legislation/
[2] https://congressionalsportsmen.org/news/delaware-introduces-pro-sportsmen-knife-legislation/
[3] https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail/142112
[4] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/delaware-switchblade-ban-repeal-knife-law-reform-passes-house-comm/
[5] https://edc.ninja/delaware-knife-laws/
