Indiana is considered one of the more permissive states in the U.S. regarding knife ownership and carry. However, there are important exceptions and local variations that every resident and visitor should understand to avoid legal trouble.
General Knife Laws in Indiana
- There are no statewide restrictions on the type of knife you can own or carry, with two major exceptions: ballistic knives (knives with detachable, projectile blades) and Chinese throwing stars (shuriken) are strictly prohibited to possess, manufacture, sell, or carry.
- There are no statewide limits on blade length, nor are you required to conceal your knife. Open or concealed carry is generally permitted for most knife types, including switchblades, assisted-openers, and even large knives like machetes and swords.
Prohibited Knives
- Ballistic knives: Illegal to own, carry, manufacture, or sell. A violation is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Chinese throwing stars: Also illegal, with violations classified as a Class C misdemeanor, carrying up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Switchblades and Automatic Knives
- Switchblades and other automatic knives became legal in Indiana in 2013. There are no restrictions on their ownership or carry, provided you are not in a restricted area.
Blade Length and Concealment
- The state does not regulate blade length or require knives to be concealed. You may openly carry knives of any length, and there is no legal distinction between open and concealed carry.
- However, some cities and towns have their own ordinances. For example, Merrillville restricts pocket knives to blades under two inches, and Fort Wayne prohibits carrying knives with blades longer than three inches. Always check local laws before carrying a knife in a new municipality.
Restricted Locations
Carrying any knife is illegal in certain locations, regardless of type or blade length:
- Schools and school buses: Indiana law makes it a Class B misdemeanor to possess a knife on school property, on a school bus, or on a special purpose bus. This includes all types of knives intended as weapons. Exceptions exist if the knife is provided or authorized by the school or is secured in a motor vehicle.
- Airports, courthouses, and other government buildings: Knives are prohibited in these locations, and violations can result in criminal charges.
Use and Intent
- Using any knife in a violent, aggressive, or threatening manner is a felony offense, regardless of the knife’s legality otherwise.
- Supplying a deadly weapon (including certain knives) to an intoxicated person or habitual drunkard is also illegal.
Minors and Knife Carry
- There is no statewide law explicitly prohibiting minors from carrying knives. However, minors should avoid carrying knives to restricted locations such as schools, and parental permission is advisable.
- As with adults, minors must not carry knives in a manner intended to be used as a weapon or in prohibited places.
Local Ordinances and Preemption
- Indiana does not have statewide preemption for knife laws. This means cities and counties can enact stricter regulations than the state. Always check local ordinances before carrying a knife, especially in urban areas.
Indiana Knife Law Basics
| Aspect | State Law | Local Variations Possible? |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length Limit | None | Yes |
| Concealed Carry | Legal | Yes |
| Switchblades/Automatics | Legal | Yes |
| Ballistic Knives | Illegal | No |
| Chinese Throwing Stars | Illegal | No |
| Schools/Government Buildings | Illegal to carry knives | No |
| Use as Weapon | Felony offense | No |
Key Takeaways
- Most knives are legal to own and carry in Indiana, with the exception of ballistic knives and Chinese throwing stars.
- There are no statewide restrictions on blade length or concealment, but local ordinances may be more restrictive.
- Never carry knives into schools, government buildings, or other prohibited areas.
- Always check city or county laws before carrying a knife, as local regulations can differ significantly from state law.
By understanding these guidelines, you can exercise your knife rights responsibly and legally in Indiana.
Sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Indiana/comments/1b4sf4r/knife_laws/
- https://edc.ninja/indiana-knife-laws/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-35/article-47/chapter-5/section-35-47-5-2-5/
- https://www.changeitindiana.org/what-is-indiana-state-law-on-knives
- https://www.delewislaw.com/blog/indiana-laws-regarding-knives-and-blades/
