Missouri is known for its lenient knife laws, allowing residents and visitors to own and carry a wide variety of knives. Understanding these laws is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.
Overview of Missouri Knife Laws
- General Permissiveness: Missouri does not restrict the ownership of most types of knives, including switchblades, automatic knives, and large knives like Bowie knives.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of knives is allowed, but there are specific guidelines. “Ordinary pocketknives” with blades under four inches can be carried concealed without restrictions.
- Open Carry: There are no significant restrictions on openly carrying knives in Missouri, except in specific locations like schools or courthouses.
Types of Knives Legal in Missouri
- Switchblades and Automatic Knives: These are legal to own and carry in Missouri, provided they do not violate federal laws.
- Pocketknives: Ordinary pocketknives with blades under four inches are freely allowed for concealed carry.
- Other Knives: Dirks, stilettos, balisong knives, and throwing knives are also legal.
Concealed Carry Regulations
- Ordinary Pocketknives: These can be carried concealed without restrictions if the blade is under four inches.
- Other Knives: Larger knives or those not classified as ordinary pocketknives may require open carry to comply with local regulations.
- Concealed Carry Permit: While not necessary for knives, having a concealed carry permit can provide exemptions from certain location-based restrictions.
Restricted Locations
- Schools and Courthouses: Carrying knives in these locations is generally prohibited.
- Other Restricted Areas: Specific locations like airports or government buildings may also have restrictions on knife carry.
Federal Laws and Missouri
- Federal Switchblade Act: While Missouri allows switchblades, federal laws still apply, particularly when transporting them across state lines.
- Compliance with Federal Law: It is essential to ensure that any knife carried does not violate federal regulations.
Legal Consequences and Precautions
- Misuse of Knives: Using a knife in the commission of a crime can lead to severe penalties, regardless of the knife’s legality.
- Local Ordinances: While Missouri state law is lenient, local ordinances may vary, so it’s crucial to check local rules.
Missouri’s knife laws are generally favorable to knife owners, allowing a wide range of knives to be carried openly or concealed. However, understanding the nuances of these laws, including restrictions on certain locations and compliance with federal regulations, is essential to avoid legal issues. Always consult local ordinances and seek legal advice if unsure about specific situations.
SOURCES:-
[1] https://www.sindellaw.com/blog/2023/07/missouri-knife-laws/
[2] https://dailycarryco.com/blogs/everydaycarry/understanding-gravity-knife-laws-in-missouri
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/missouri-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/missouri-knife-laws-updated-2021-is-it-legal-to-carry-a-knife-in-2021
[5] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/missouri-knife-laws/
