Kentucky has a reputation for permissive knife laws, allowing for a wide range of knife ownership and carry options. However, there are specific regulations that govern concealed carry and the definition of what constitutes a “deadly weapon.” This guide outlines the key aspects of knife laws in Kentucky, including ownership, open carry, concealed carry, and restrictions.
Ownership of Knives
- Types of Knives Allowed: Kentucky law does not impose restrictions on the types of knives that can be owned. This includes:
- Pocket knives
- Hunting knives
- Bowie knives
- Switchblades
- Balisong knives
- Gravity knives
- Disguised knives (e.g., belt buckle knives, lipstick knives)
- Undetectable knives (knives that do not set off metal detectors) .
- No Length Restrictions: There are no legal limits on the length of knives in Kentucky. Individuals can own and possess any knife length without restriction.
Carrying Knives
Open Carry
- Permissibility: Open carry of any knife is generally legal in Kentucky. This includes larger knives such as swords and machetes, as long as they are carried openly.
Concealed Carry
- General Rules: Concealed carry is more restricted. According to KRS 527.020, individuals must have a license to conceal carry a “deadly weapon,” which is defined as any knife other than an “ordinary pocket knife” or “hunting knife”.
- Ordinary Pocket Knife and Hunting Knife: The law does not clearly define what qualifies as an “ordinary pocket knife” or a “hunting knife,” leading to ambiguity. Generally, these are understood to be folding knives without mechanical assistance for blade deployment.
- Age Restrictions: Individuals under 21 years old may only conceal carry ordinary pocket or hunting knives. Those 21 and older can conceal carry any knife if they possess a valid concealed weapon license or under the constitutional carry provision enacted in June 2019.
Restrictions on Carrying Knives
- Prohibited Locations: Certain areas prohibit carrying knives, including:
- School property (K-12)
- Courthouses
- Prisons
- Some local ordinances may impose additional restrictions in specific municipalities .
- Local Ordinances: While state law provides a general framework, local jurisdictions may have their own regulations that could be more restrictive than state laws. It is advisable for individuals to check local laws when traveling within Kentucky.
Legal Consequences
Violating Kentucky’s knife laws can lead to criminal penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, particularly if an individual is found carrying a concealed weapon without the proper licensing or in prohibited locations .
Conclusion
Kentucky’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States regarding ownership and open carry. However, individuals should remain aware of the complexities surrounding concealed carry regulations and local ordinances to ensure compliance with the law. For specific legal advice or updates on changes in legislation, consulting with a legal expert is recommended.