Kentucky Knife Law – The Complete Guide (In Plain English)

Are you a pocket knife enthusiast who is curious about the laws regarding owning and carrying knives in Kentucky?

Well, you’re in luck! This blog post will provide an overview of Kentucky knife law, including what types of knives are allowed to be owned, how they can legally be carried or concealed, age restrictions for ownership as well as local ordinances that may affect possession.

Furthermore, we’ll cover preemption laws which determine whether or not local regulations take precedence over state ones when it comes to possessing blades. Lastly, this article looks at potential penalties for violating Kentucky’s blade statutes.

So if you want all the facts on knives and their legal status in KY then read on.

Types of Knives Allowed in Kentucky

Pocket Knives

Pocket knives are the most common type of knife allowed in Kentucky. They are small, folding knives that can be carried easily and discreetly. Generally, pocket knives with blades less than four inches long are legal to own and carry in the state. Examples of popular pocket knives include Swiss Army Knives, multi-tools, and traditional slip joints.

Switchblades

Switchblades or automatic knives are also legal to own and carry in Kentucky as long as they have a blade length of four inches or less. These types of knives open automatically when a button is pressed on the handle or by using an external force such as gravity or inertia. Popular examples include OTF (out-the-front) switchblades, butterfly switchblades, stilettos, and spring-assisted folders.

Balisongs, or “butterfly” knives, are also allowed in Kentucky but must have a blade length of three inches or less to be considered legal for ownership and carrying purposes. These unique folding blades consist of two handles that counter-rotate around the tang so that when closed it looks like one solid piece; however, with one hand motion, they can quickly be opened into two separate pieces revealing a sharpened blade inside each handle half.

In Kentucky, pocket knives are allowed for open carry and concealed carry with some exceptions. However, there are additional laws regarding switchblades and balisongs that must be followed when carrying or concealing these types of knives in the state. Next, we will look at the laws concerning carrying and concealing knives in Kentucky.

Carrying and Concealing Knives in Kentucky

Open Carry Laws

In Kentucky, it is legal to openly carry a pocket knife in public. However, the state does have restrictions on what types of knives can be carried and where they can be carried. For example, switchblades are not allowed to be openly carried in public areas such as schools or government buildings. Additionally, some cities may have their own ordinances regarding open carry laws that should also be taken into consideration when carrying a pocket knife in public.

Concealed Carry Laws

Concealing a pocket knife is illegal in Kentucky unless you possess a valid concealed weapons permit issued by the state. Even with this permit, there are still certain restrictions on which types of knives can be legally concealed and where they can be carried. For instance, automatic knives (switchblades) cannot be legally concealed even with a valid permit from the state.

In Kentucky, it is important to understand the laws regarding carrying and concealing knives in order to avoid any legal issues. Next, we will look at the types of knives that are prohibited in the state.

Prohibited Knives in Kentucky

Knives are a popular tool and weapon for many people, but it is important to understand the laws regarding knife possession in Kentucky. In this section, we will discuss the types of knives that are prohibited from being owned or carried in the state of Kentucky.

Automatic Knives (Switchblades):

Automatic knives, also known as switchblades, are illegal to own or carry in Kentucky. These knives open with a spring-loaded mechanism when a button is pressed on the handle. It is illegal to possess an automatic knife regardless of whether it is concealed or openly carried.

Ballistic Knives (Spring-loaded):

Ballistic knives are another type of prohibited knife in Kentucky. These knives use a spring-loaded mechanism to launch blades out of their handles at high speeds and can be used as weapons as well as tools. It is illegal to possess these types of knives regardless if they are concealed or openly carried.

Gravity knives, also known as butterfly knives, are another type of prohibited knife in Kentucky due to their quick opening mechanisms which allow them to be opened quickly with one hand and used like a switchblade without actually having any springs involved. Possession and carrying of these types of knives is strictly forbidden by law regardless if they are concealed or openly carried.

Knives such as automatic, ballistic, and gravity knives are prohibited in Kentucky. It is important to understand the age restrictions for knife ownership before purchasing or carrying a knife in this state.

Age Restrictions for Knife Ownership in Kentucky

In Kentucky, the minimum age requirement for purchasing or owning a knife is 18 years old

This applies to all types of knives, including pocket knives, switchblades, and balisongs.

Minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to possess any type of knife unless they have permission from an adult who is responsible for them.

Minimum Age Requirements for Purchasing/Owning a Knife

Minors must be at least 18 years old in order to purchase or own any type of knife in Kentucky. It is important to note that this law applies regardless of whether the minor intends on carrying or concealing the knife with them while out in public.

Penalties for Minors Carrying or Possessing a Knife

Minors found to be carrying or possessing a knife without permission from an adult may face criminal charges depending on their age and other factors such as intent and location where the incident occurred. For example, if a minor was found with a pocketknife at school then they could potentially face disciplinary action from school officials as well as criminal charges depending on local laws and ordinances regarding weapons possession within schools.

In Kentucky, it is important to understand the age restrictions for knife ownership as they can vary from city to city. Now let’s take a look at local ordinances regarding knife possession in Kentucky cities and counties.

Local Ordinances Regarding Knife Possession in Kentucky Cities and Counties

Local ordinances in Kentucky cities and counties can vary widely when it comes to knife possession. In some areas, there may be no restrictions at all while other locations may have specific laws regarding the type of knives that are allowed or prohibited. It is important for anyone who carries a pocket knife to familiarize themselves with the local laws in their area before doing so.

In Louisville, for example, it is illegal to carry any kind of concealed weapon including knives without a permit from the police department. This includes switchblades, butterfly knives (balisongs), and other types of folding blades as well as fixed-blade knives such as daggers or stilettos. The only exception is if you are carrying a pocketknife with a blade less than four inches long which does not lock into place when opened.

In Lexington, on the other hand, there are no restrictions on carrying most types of pocketknives provided they do not exceed three inches in length when open and do not have an automatic opening mechanism such as those found on switchblades or balisongs. However, certain types of weapons such as ballistic knives (spring-loaded) and gravity knives (butterfly) remain prohibited regardless of size or design features.

It is also important to note that age restrictions may apply depending on where you live. Kentucky state law prohibits minors under 18 years old from possessing any type of knife unless they have written permission from their parent/guardian or legal representative, even if the minor is simply carrying it around town and not using it for hunting or self-defense purposes. Penalties for violating these rules can range from fines up to $500 per offense, plus possible jail time depending upon the severity of the violation(s).

Finally, it is important to note that preemption laws exist throughout Kentucky which means that local governments cannot pass ordinances related to firearms and/or weapons possession unless specifically authorized by state statute. This means any additional regulations must come directly from Frankfort rather than individual cities or counties across the commonwealth itself.

Local ordinances regarding knife possession in Kentucky cities and counties vary, but it is important to be aware of these laws before carrying a pocket knife. Preemption law may also affect the legality of certain knives, so let’s take a look at how this affects local regulations.

Preemption Law and How it Affects Local Ordinances Regarding Knife Possession in Kentucky

Preemption law is a legal concept that prevents local governments from passing laws or ordinances that are more restrictive than state laws. In the context of knife possession, this means that if Kentucky has passed a law allowing for certain types of knives to be carried in public, then no city or county within the state can pass an ordinance prohibiting those same knives. This applies to both open and concealed carry laws.

For example, under Kentucky’s preemption law, cities and counties cannot prohibit pocket knives with blades less than four inches long from being openly carried in public places like parks and sidewalks. However, they may still be able to restrict their possession on private property such as businesses or schools.

In addition to restricting local government’s ability to regulate knife possession beyond what is allowed by state law, preemption also prohibits them from enacting any regulations regarding age restrictions for purchasing/owning a knife or penalties for minors carrying or possessing one. These issues must instead be addressed at the state level only.

Although Kentucky state law preempts local ordinances regarding knife possession, it is important to be aware of the laws and restrictions that still apply. Next, we will discuss the penalties for violating these laws in Kentucky.

Penalties for Violating Knife Laws in Kentucky

Penalties for violating knife laws in Kentucky can vary depending on the severity of the offense committed. Generally, those found guilty of carrying a prohibited knife or possessing one without a valid permit may face fines and/or jail time.

Penalties for violating knife laws in Kentucky can vary depending on the severity of the offense committed. Generally, those found guilty of carrying a prohibited knife or possessing one without a valid permit may face fines and/or jail time.

For example, knowingly carrying an automatic knife (switchblade) is considered a Class A misdemeanor in Kentucky and carries with it up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Carrying any type of ballistic knife (spring-loaded) is considered a Class D felony which carries with it 1-5 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $10,000. Possessing any type of gravity knife (butterfly) is also considered a Class D felony punishable by 1-5 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $10,000.

FAQs in Relation to Kentucky Knife Law

How large of a knife can you carry in Kentucky?

Any knife with a blade longer than 4 inches is considered an illegal weapon and possession of such knives can result in criminal charges. It is important to note that there are some exceptions for certain types of knives, such as switchblades or Bowie knives, which may be prohibited even if they have blades shorter than 4 inches. Additionally, local laws may impose further restrictions on the size and type of pocket knife that can be carried in public places.

What is the blade length law in KY?

In Kentucky, the blade length law states that any pocket knife with a blade longer than four inches is considered illegal. This includes switchblades and other automatic knives. However, it is legal to own and carry a pocket knife with a blade shorter than four inches in public places as long as it is not used for criminal activity or concealed on one’s person. It should also be noted that certain cities within Kentucky may have additional restrictions regarding the carrying of pocket knives.

What is Kentucky law on butterfly knives?

In Kentucky, butterfly knives are considered illegal. The state has a law that prohibits the possession of any switchblade or gravity knife, which includes butterfly knives. This means it is illegal to carry, buy, sell, or manufacture these types of knives in the state. It is also illegal to transport them across state lines into Kentucky. Violation of this law can result in criminal charges and fines.

Can you use a knife in self-defense in Kentucky?

Yes, you can use a knife in self-defense in Kentucky. However, the state does have laws that regulate the type of knives and how they are used. Generally speaking, it is legal to carry a pocketknife with a blade shorter than four inches for self-defense purposes. However, it is illegal to possess certain types of knives such as switchblades or butterfly knives. It is also important to note that even if using a knife for self-defense is justified, there may still be consequences depending on the circumstances surrounding its use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations regarding knife possession in Kentucky. Knowing what types of knives are allowed, how they can be carried and concealed, as well as any age restrictions or local ordinances that may apply is essential for staying within the boundaries of Kentucky knife law.

It’s also important to understand preemption law and its effects on local ordinances so you don’t find yourself facing penalties for violating knife laws in Kentucky. With this knowledge, you can enjoy owning pocket knives without worrying about running afoul of the law.

By taking an active role in educating ourselves on these laws, we can help ensure our safety while still enjoying our rights and freedoms. Let’s work together to create solutions that protect us all!