Virginia has relatively permissive laws regarding the possession and carrying of knives, but with important restrictions. Most everyday knives, such as pocket knives with a folding metal blade shorter than three inches, can be openly carried without issue. However, the state imposes stricter limitations on certain types of knives, including dirks, bowie knives, stilettos, ballistic knives, and others, especially when carried in a concealed manner.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
In Virginia, open carry of most knives is legal. This means you can visibly carry fixed blade knives and folding knives in public without a permit or special authorization, so long as the knives are not of certain prohibited types. Open carry signifies that the knife is in plain view and accessible, differentiating it from concealed carry, which is more heavily regulated.
Concealed carry of knives, where the blade or knife is hidden from common observation, has more restrictions. For example, concealed carry of dirks, bowie knives, butterfly knives (also called balisongs), ballistic knives, machetes, razors, and similar weapons is generally illegal in Virginia. However, pocket knives with folding blades less than three inches in length are exempt and can usually be concealed legally.
Specific Knife Types and Their Legal Status
| Knife Type | Open Carry Allowed | Concealed Carry Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket Knife (<3″) | Yes | Yes |
| Folding Knife (>3″) | Yes (typically) | Varies by type |
| Fixed Blade Knife | Yes | No |
| Dirk | Yes | No |
| Bowie Knife | Yes | No |
| Switchblades | Yes | Legal since 2023 |
| Ballistic Knives | No | No |
| Machetes | Yes | No |
Switchblade knives were recently removed from the list of prohibited concealed weapons as of July 1, 2023, representing a significant legal change that now allows for their legal possession and concealed carry under Virginia law.
Location-Based Restrictions
Virginia imposes special restrictions on knives in sensitive locations such as schools, courthouses, government buildings, places of worship, and airports. For instance, carrying knives with blades over three inches is prohibited on school property, and possessing any knife considered a weapon there can result in criminal penalties.
Brandishing a knife in a threatening manner, especially blades 12 inches or longer, is a criminal offense. The law is stricter if this occurs near a school, elevating the offense to a felony in some cases.
Penalties for Violations
Violating Virginia’s knife laws, especially concealed carry prohibitions, can result in serious legal consequences:
First offenses are generally Class 1 misdemeanors, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and/or fines up to $2,500.
Repeat offenses escalate to felony charges with harsher penalties.
Possession of knives in restricted areas can also lead to misdemeanor charges.
Brandishing knives with intent to intimidate is punishable with jail time and fines, with elevated penalties for offenses occurring near schools.
Know Your Knife Rights in Virginia
Virginia’s knife laws balance general permissiveness with targeted restrictions to maintain public safety. Open carrying most knives is legal, but concealed carry is tightly regulated for certain types. Location and intent matter greatly, as carrying knives in restricted areas or brandishing can lead to serious legal trouble.
If you carry or own knives in Virginia, staying informed on the types permitted and understanding where and how you can legally carry them is crucial. Consulting local laws and, if needed, legal counsel, especially concerning new changes like the allowance for concealed switchblades, will help ensure you remain compliant and avoid penalties.
Knowing your rights and responsibilities surrounding knife carry can help you enjoy your knives safely and lawfully in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Sources
[1] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/virgina-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/virginia/
[3] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-virginia-a-detailed-guide-to-legal-carry/
[4] https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB1220/text/SB1220
[5] https://www.battlbox.com/blogs/carry-laws/can-you-open-carry-a-knife-in-virginia-understanding-the-legal-landscape
