As of 2025, Pennsylvania knife laws are relatively permissive, but there are still restrictions concerning ownership, carry, and use.
Ownership
Most manual and assisted-opening knives are legal to own. These include:
Most manual and assisted-opening knives are legal to own. These include:
- Pocket knives
- Hunting knives
- Butterfly knives (if manually operated)
- Bowie knives
- Automatic knives (legalized in 2023, following HB 1929/Act 119)
Even restricted knives (such as swords and large blades) may be owned if used for lawful purposes such as collecting, theatrical performances, or historical reenactments. However, practical use in public may negate this defense.
Carry Regulations
Open carry is generally allowed unless the knife is classified as an “offensive weapon” (such as ballistic knives). While state law no longer prohibits automatic knives, local ordinances, such as in Philadelphia, may restrict their carry. Concealed carry is permitted if the knife serves a lawful purpose (such as work or recreation). Pennsylvania does not impose blade-length limits, but intent matters. It is prohibited to conceal a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully, but it is allowed to carry tools like pocket knives for everyday tasks. Law enforcement, military, and tradespeople (carpenters, for example) are exempt from certain restrictions while performing their duties.
Open carry is generally allowed unless the knife is classified as an “offensive weapon” (such as ballistic knives). While state law no longer prohibits automatic knives, local ordinances, such as in Philadelphia, may restrict their carry. Concealed carry is permitted if the knife serves a lawful purpose (such as work or recreation). Pennsylvania does not impose blade-length limits, but intent matters. It is prohibited to conceal a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully, but it is allowed to carry tools like pocket knives for everyday tasks. Law enforcement, military, and tradespeople (carpenters, for example) are exempt from certain restrictions while performing their duties.
Restricted Locations
Knives are banned in schools and courthouses unless they are part of a supervised activity. Philadelphia ordinance §10-820 prohibits carrying knives on public streets or property unless for lawful work or recreation. Federal TSA guidelines prohibit knives in carry-ons in federal buildings and airports.
Knives are banned in schools and courthouses unless they are part of a supervised activity. Philadelphia ordinance §10-820 prohibits carrying knives on public streets or property unless for lawful work or recreation. Federal TSA guidelines prohibit knives in carry-ons in federal buildings and airports.
Prohibitions and Penalties
Offensive weapons are defined as tools with no common lawful purpose. It is illegal to sell or transfer knives “designed as weapons” to anyone under 18. Possession in restricted areas (such as schools) is a misdemeanor. Unlawful carry with criminal intent is a felony.
Offensive weapons are defined as tools with no common lawful purpose. It is illegal to sell or transfer knives “designed as weapons” to anyone under 18. Possession in restricted areas (such as schools) is a misdemeanor. Unlawful carry with criminal intent is a felony.
Recent Legal Changes
HB 1929 (Act 119 of 2022) removed automatic knives from the state’s “offensive weapons” list, allowing their manufacture, sale, and possession. Because no statewide preemption law exists, cities like Philadelphia enforce stricter rules.
HB 1929 (Act 119 of 2022) removed automatic knives from the state’s “offensive weapons” list, allowing their manufacture, sale, and possession. Because no statewide preemption law exists, cities like Philadelphia enforce stricter rules.
Practical Considerations
Always articulate a valid reason for carrying a knife (such as work or a hobby). Self-defense alone is not a lawful purpose. Even small pocket knives are prohibited in schools and courts unless part of authorized activities. It is important to check local laws because Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have unique restrictions.
Always articulate a valid reason for carrying a knife (such as work or a hobby). Self-defense alone is not a lawful purpose. Even small pocket knives are prohibited in schools and courts unless part of authorized activities. It is important to check local laws because Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have unique restrictions.
SOURCES:
- https://owossoindependent.com/understanding-the-legal-landscape-of-pocket-knives-in-pennsylvania/
- https://owossoindependent.com/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-pennsylvania-a-legal-guide/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/pennsylvania-knife-laws/
- https://knifeade.com/pennsylvania-knife-law/
