Pocket knives are useful tools. However, depending on their size, how they are transported, and where you are, they may get you in trouble in the state of Kentucky. Kentucky’s knife laws can be complicated. This post will break down those laws, clarify common misconceptions, and help you stay on the right side of the law when carrying a pocket knife in the Bluegrass State.
Defining What Constitutes a “Deadly Weapon”
Kentucky law defines a “deadly weapon” as:
- Any instrument designed to cause death or serious injury
- Any device readily capable of being used to cause death or serious injury
This classification is deliberately wide, and whether a pocket knife belongs into this category relies on various aspects, including:
- Blade Length: While there is no single blade length barrier, larger blades are generally looked with mistrust.
- Blade Style: Certain blade types, such as switchblades or those with two edges, may be deemed more dangerous.
- Intent: It matters how you carry the knife and what you do with it. A pocket knife used for utility is less likely to be perceived as a threat than one used aggressively.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
In Kentucky, openly carrying a pocket knife is generally permitted. However, concealed carry of a lethal weapon is a more contentious topic. Examples of concealed carry are:
- A knife in your pocket, fully concealed under clothing
- A knife inside a bag or backpack
- A knife hidden in your vehicle
There are several exceptions to concealed carry, which we will cover later.
Size and Blade-Type Restrictions
Kentucky has no statewide blade length limit for pocket knives. However, certain cities and counties may have municipal ordinances that impose restrictions. For example:
- Louisville: It may be prohibited to carry a knife with a blade longer than 3.5 inches in certain regions or with the intention of using it as a weapon.
- Lexington: Blade lengths may be restricted by local legislation in some public locations.
Furthermore, certain types of knives are expressly prohibited in Kentucky:
- Switchblades/Automatic Knives: Knives with blades that open automatically with the press of a button or a flick of the wrist are unlawful.
- Ballistic Knives: Knives with blades that can be removed from the handle.
Prohibited Locations
Even with a legally sized and carried pocket knife, there are places in Kentucky where blades are not permitted:
- Schools: It is forbidden to carry any weapon, including pocket knives, on school grounds, inside school buildings, or on school buses.
- Government Buildings: Weapons may be restricted in certain federal buildings, courthouses, or other government facilities.
- Airports: Knives are not allowed past security checkpoints.
- Private Property: Property owners can establish their own laws for firearms, even pocket knives.
Special Circumstances
- Minors and Pocket Knives: Kentucky law does not require a minimum age to carry a pocket knife. However, parental discretion and local legislation governing minors may apply.
- Hunting and Fishing Exemptions: You can normally carry larger knives if they are plainly meant for hunting or fishing.
Penalties and Consequences
Violating Kentucky’s knife laws can lead to several consequences:
- Misdemeanors: Depending on the circumstances, carrying a concealed weapon, possessing a prohibited knife, or carrying a knife in a restricted place may result in misdemeanor charges.
- Felonies: If the knife is used in a crime or with the intent to do harm, criminal penalties may apply.
- Fines and Jail Time: Knife-related violations can result in fines or jail time, depending on the severity of the infringement.
Important Considerations
- Local Ordinances: Check for knife ordinances in Kentucky’s cities and counties. These could be stricter than state legislation. City websites are frequently an excellent source for this information.
- Discretion and Common Sense: Even when theoretically permissible, carrying a large or visible knife may create concern. Use your best judgment and assess whether a smaller, less daunting tool would be sufficient for your task.
- “When in Doubt, Don’t”: If you are unsure about the legality of carrying a knife in a specific location or situation, err on the side of caution and leave it at home or in your vehicle.