South Carolina is among the more permissive states in the U.S. when it comes to knife ownership and carrying rights. However, understanding the specific laws and restrictions is crucial to ensure legal compliance and safe practice. This guide covers key aspects of South Carolina’s knife laws as of 2025.
Legal Ownership and Types of Knives Allowed
South Carolina law permits individuals to own virtually all types of knives, including switchblades, bowie knives, dirks, daggers, stilettos, butterfly knives, and even disguised knives such as those concealed in belt buckles or lipstick cases. Unlike many states, South Carolina does not have general restrictions on owning any specific type of knife.
Open Carry of Knives
Open carry of knives is generally legal without significant restrictions. This means individuals can openly carry knives on their person, such as in a sheath on a belt or visible pocket knives, in most public places. The state does not prohibit open carry in vehicles either, though the placement should not interfere with driving safety.
Concealed Carry Regulations
Concealed carry of knives is permitted, but important limitations exist. Knives with blades longer than two inches cannot be carried concealed on elementary or secondary school properties, except by law enforcement or authorized personnel. Additionally, carrying a knife concealed with the intent to commit a crime is illegal and subject to severe penalties.
One distinctive point in South Carolina’s law is that knives (including dirks and switchblades) are excluded from the general concealed weapons prohibition, unless used criminally. This essentially legalizes concealed carry of many knife types under normal circumstances.
Restricted Locations and Exceptions
While knife carry is broadly permitted, some locations impose restrictions. Schools are the primary restricted areas, with blade length limitations on school grounds. Additionally, government buildings, courthouses, and places where firearms are prohibited usually limit knife carry as well. Private property owners can set their own rules about knives on their premises.
Impact of Local Ordinances
South Carolina’s state constitution gives it authority over weapons regulation statewide, making many local knife ordinances unenforceable if inconsistent with state law. However, several cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville have local regulations that attempt to impose stricter rules. Legal opinion suggests courts would likely strike down such local laws if challenged, affirming state preemption.
Safety and Responsible Knife Ownership
Despite permissive laws, safe knife handling remains essential. Users should:
Avoid carrying knives with criminal intent
Follow all applicable laws and guidelines
Use knives only for lawful purposes and in appropriate settings
Ensure knives do not obstruct driving or public safety
Responsible ownership reduces risk and protects legal rights.
Knowing Your Rights in South Carolina
South Carolina grants broad rights to own, openly carry, and conceivably carry many types of knives. Restrictions focus mainly on criminal intent, blade length in schools, and certain sensitive locations.
State legal preemption means state laws take precedence over conflicting local ordinances, providing clarity for knife owners. By understanding these laws and acting responsibly, South Carolina residents can confidently exercise their knife rights while ensuring public safety and compliance.
Sources
(https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/south-carolina-knife-laws/)
(https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-south-carolina-a-comprehensive-legal-guide/)
(https://knifeup.com/south-carolina-knife-laws/)
(https://www.battlbox.com/blogs/carry-laws/can-you-open-carry-a-knife-in-south-carolina-understanding-the-laws-and-regulations)
(https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/south-carolina/)
