Understanding Your Knife Rights in Nebraska : A Legal Guide

Ownership: Almost all types of knives are legal to own in Nebraska, including folding knives, fixed blades, daggers, stilettos, automatics (switchblades), and gravity knives.

Illegal Knives: The only notable statewide prohibition is on ballistic knives—those capable of ejecting a blade as a projectile. Their possession, sale, or use is illegal.

Switchblades: Nebraska law generally allows the possession of switchblades, though some municipalities may treat them as contraband or restrict their carry—always check local rules.

You may openly carry any legal knife (besides ballistic knives) anywhere in Nebraska, unless prohibited by specific local regulations or on certain restricted premises. However, openly carrying large or intimidating knives in public settings may draw attention from law enforcement or concern from others.

The biggest limitation is on concealed carry of knives with blades over 3.5 inches. Concealing such a knife (any type) is illegal unless you are on your property or have a valid concealed weapon permit.

Knives with blades 3.5 inches or shorter may be carried concealed without restriction.

There’s no specific Nebraska statute defining exactly how blade length is measured, nor a detailed test for “concealed”—but courts generally consider a weapon “concealed” if it’s hidden from ordinary observation.

Schools: All knives (except very small pocket knives) are strictly prohibited on school grounds or in school vehicles/buildings. This applies to both students and adults and can carry serious penalties.

Government Buildings & Local Ordinances: Local governments (notably Omaha and Lincoln) may have stricter weapons ordinances; in these cities, automatic knives or certain blade types may be banned altogether.

Minors and Prohibited Persons: Minors, felons, and persons prohibited due to certain convictions cannot lawfully carry concealed weapons, including knives, in Nebraska. However, recent case law suggests felons may not automatically be barred from simple knife possession—always check with legal counsel for individual cases.

Nebraska does not have statewide preemption. This means cities like Lincoln and Omaha can enforce their own stricter knife ordinances. Always be aware of the rules in any Nebraska municipality you visit.

Illegally carrying a concealed knife with a blade over 3.5 inches is usually a Class I misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine for a first offense.

Repeat offenses or violations by minors/prohibited persons can result in felonies.

Always measure your blade—concealed carry is only safe if your knife’s blade is 3.5 inches or less.

Be especially cautious about local laws in Omaha, Lincoln, and other cities, as local codes may be more restrictive than state law.

Carrying a knife with intent to use unlawfully is always a crime, regardless of blade length or type.

Never carry any knife into schools or certain government buildings.