Navigating New York’s knife laws can be challenging due to a complex mix of state statutes and stricter local ordinances, especially in New York City. This guide provides a clear overview of your rights and responsibilities when it comes to owning, carrying, and using knives in New York as of 2025.
Types of Knives: What’s Legal and What’s Not
New York State law distinguishes between knives that are legal to possess and those that are outright banned. The following knives are prohibited statewide for the general public:
- Switchblades (automatic knives that open with a button or switch)
- Ballistic knives (blades that can be ejected)
- Metal knuckle knives (incorporating brass knuckles)
- Cane swords (blades concealed in canes or walking sticks)
- Pilum ballistic knives and certain “assisted opening” knives
Possession, manufacture, or sale of these knives is a criminal offense, regardless of intent.
Legal Knives
- Folding knives (such as pocket knives) are generally legal, as long as they are not carried with unlawful intent.
- Gravity knives (which open by the force of gravity or wrist flick) were legalized in 2019, but New York City maintains stricter regulations.
- Fixed-blade knives are legal statewide, but local rules may apply.
Carrying Knives: Open and Concealed Carry
- Statewide: There is no explicit blade length restriction at the state level. However, carrying any knife with the intent to use it unlawfully (including for self-defense) is strictly prohibited and can result in criminal charges.
- Open Carry: Legal if the knife is not intended as a weapon. Large or conspicuous knives may draw police attention, especially in urban areas.
- Concealed Carry: Permissible for legal knives, provided there is no unlawful intent. Concealed carry of knives with blades 4 inches or longer is prohibited in New York City.
New York City’s Stricter Rules
New York City enforces some of the toughest knife laws in the country:
- It is illegal to carry any knife with a blade 4 inches or longer in public, whether open or concealed.
- Knives must not be visible in public, even if the blade is under 4 inches. This includes pocket clips or handles protruding from pockets.
- Gravity knives and assisted-opening knives remain restricted in NYC, despite statewide changes.
- Carrying a knife for “protection” or self-defense is considered unlawful intent and can result in arrest, regardless of the knife’s size or type.
Intent and Lawful Use
- Carrying a knife for work, recreation (such as camping or fishing), or as a tool is generally legal if the knife itself is not prohibited and you have no unlawful intent.
- Carrying a knife with intent to use it as a weapon (including for self-defense without cause) can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on circumstances.
Penalties for Violating Knife Laws
- Possession of a prohibited knife: Criminal charge, possible fines, probation, or jail time up to one year.
- Carrying a knife with unlawful intent: Can be treated as a felony, with harsher penalties.
- NYC blade length violation: Fine or up to 15 days in jail, even with no unlawful intent.
Special Considerations
- Age and Citizenship: You must be at least 18 years old and have no felony convictions to legally possess a knife in New York.
- Law Enforcement and Military: Exemptions exist for official duties, but proper identification is required.
- Local Ordinances: Always check local laws, as cities like Buffalo and NYC have additional restrictions.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid carrying switchblades, ballistic knives, metal knuckle knives, cane swords, or any knife banned by law.
- In NYC, never carry a knife with a blade 4 inches or longer in public, and keep all knives fully concealed.
- Never carry a knife for self-defense or with intent to use it as a weapon.
- When in doubt, consult a legal expert or refrain from carrying potentially illegal knives.
By staying informed and cautious, you can exercise your knife rights in New York without running afoul of the law.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-york/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-york-knife-laws/
- https://www.tosahwi.com/blogs/new-york-knife-laws
- https://www.tsiglerlaw.com/blog/new-york-knife-laws/
- https://www.new-york-lawyers.org/frequently-asked-questions/new-york-crimes-related-to-knives-faq/
