Knife laws in Tennessee have evolved to protect residents’ rights while ensuring public safety. Whether you’re a knife enthusiast or just carry one for practical purposes, understanding the state’s legal framework is critical. This guide outlines what Tennesseans should know about owning, carrying, and using knives in 2025.
Overview of Tennessee Knife Laws
Tennessee offers one of the most permissive knife laws in the United States. The law allows individuals to own and carry a wide variety of knives without strict limits on blade length or type. This freedom extends to fixed-blade knives, pocket knives, switchblades, and automatic knives, reflecting a strong commitment to personal liberty when it comes to bladed tools and weapons.
Since 2014, Tennessee repealed bans on switchblades and removed some size restrictions, further expanding knife rights for residents and visitors. The state has also blocked local governments from enacting their own knife regulations, creating uniformity across Tennessee counties and cities.
Legal Possession and Carry of Knives
In Tennessee, you may openly or discreetly carry knives without specific legal restrictions. Concealed carry of knives is generally legal, and there is no statewide blade length limitation or type prohibition. However, the purpose and manner of carrying are important—carrying a knife with intent to use it unlawfully can lead to criminal charges.
Certain knives designed to be misleading or undetectable, such as those hidden in a cane or disguised as other objects, are not allowed. Tennessee law emphasizes transparency in possession to avoid criminal implications.
Restrictions on Knife Use and Locations
Despite broad rights, there are important restrictions on where knives can be carried. Under Tennessee statute 39-17-1309, carrying knives on school grounds is prohibited, including public or private school campuses, buildings, buses, and athletic fields. Possession of a knife in these areas constitutes a Class E felony, punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine up to $6,000.
Certain types of knives, like ballistic knives or razors used with criminal intent, are also illegal. Tennessee takes law enforcement and school safety very seriously, so adherence to these location-based rules is crucial.
Tennessee Knife Law Preemption
A key feature of Tennessee’s knife legislation is state preemption—local governments cannot pass their own knife laws or restrictions. This means knife owners can expect consistent rules statewide, avoiding confusion and the patchwork regulations seen in other states. The state legislature holds sole authority over knife laws, providing certainty for residents and travelers.
Recent Legislative Updates
Effective July 1, 2025, Tennessee passed a bill (SB1360) expanding liability protections for manufacturers and sellers of knives, similar to firearms liability laws. This legislative development enhances protections for legal knife makers and distributors in the state.
The state continues to champion law reforms aimed at safeguarding knife ownership rights while balancing public safety concerns.
Practical Tips for Knife Owners in Tennessee
Know where knives are prohibited: Schools and educational settings have strict bans.
Avoid concealed knives designed to mislead or evade detection.
Carry your knife responsibly: Don’t have intent to use it unlawfully.
Stay updated: Laws evolve, so consult official state resources or legal experts for the latest guidance.
Respect state preemption: Local rules won’t vary; know the statewide laws apply everywhere.
Tennessee’s knife laws provide robust protections allowing residents to own and carry most types of knives legally and without restrictive size limits. However, restrictions on certain locations, like schools, and legal consequences for misuse remain significant. Understanding these laws and recent updates ensures knife owners enjoy their rights responsibly and avoid legal trouble in 2025 and beyond.
Sources
(https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-tennessee-a-guide-to-legal-carry-and-use/)
(https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/tennessee-knife-laws/)
(https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/tennessee-liability-protection-bill-adding-knives-signed-by-governor/)
(https://mrbailinc.com/legal-aspects-of-owning-and-carrying-a-knife-in-tennessee/)
(https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/tennessee/)
