Hawaii’s knife laws have recently undergone significant changes, particularly with the passage of Act 021 (HB2342) in 2024. This legislation has reshaped the legal landscape for knife ownership and carry in the Aloha State.
Ownership and Possession
Under the new law, Hawaii has repealed bans on the manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, and transportation of several types of knives that were previously prohibited.
These include:
- Butterfly knives (balisongs)
- Switchblades
- Gravity knives
Additionally, the law now allows possession of:
- Brass knuckles (including trench knives and karambits)
- Swords
- Spears
It’s important to note that while ownership of these items is now legal, there are still restrictions on how they can be carried.
Carry Regulations
Open Carry
The new law permits open carry of the previously banned knives.
This means you can visibly carry butterfly knives, switchblades, and gravity knives in public.
Concealed Carry
Hawaii’s ban on concealed carry of these knives remains in effect.
It’s crucial to understand that these knives should only be carried openly to comply with the law.
Pocket Knives
Single-edged pocket knives can be carried both openly and concealed, with no restrictions on blade length.
This makes pocket knives a practical and legal option for everyday carry in Hawaii.
Prohibited Knives
Despite the recent changes, some knives remain illegal to carry in Hawaii. These include:
- Daggers
- Dirks
- Knives with knuckles (such as WWI trench knives)
Additional Considerations
- Increased Penalties: The new law increases penalties for using these knives in the commission of a crime.
- School Zones: Hawaii maintains a zero-tolerance policy for weapons on school grounds.
- Intent: When determining the legality of a knife, authorities may consider whether it’s designed primarily as a weapon or has been prepared for combat.
Conclusion
While Hawaii has significantly relaxed its knife laws, it’s essential to understand the nuances of the new regulations. Single-edged pocket knives remain the most versatile and legally permissible option for everyday carry.
For other types of knives, open carry is now allowed, but concealed carry remains prohibited. As always, it’s advisable to use knives responsibly and be aware of location-specific restrictions, particularly in sensitive areas like schools.
Source
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-legalizes-butterfly-switchblade-gravity-knives/
- https://www.hawaiifreepress.com/Articles-Main/ID/29360/What-knives-can-you-carry-in-Hawaii