Wisconsin has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, but there are important exceptions and nuances that every resident and visitor should understand.
General Knife Carry Laws
- No Statewide Restrictions on Knife Type or Blade Length: Wisconsin law does not restrict the public carry of knives-openly or concealed-regardless of type (including switchblades, butterfly knives, automatic knives, etc.) or blade length. There are no state-imposed blade length limits.
- Switchblade Ban Repealed: The previous ban on switchblades was repealed in 2016. All types of knives, including automatic and spring-assisted knives, are now legal to possess and carry.
Concealed Carry of Knives
- Concealed Carry Allowed: For most adults, carrying a knife concealed is legal and not considered a violation of Wisconsin’s concealed weapon laws. Knives are specifically excluded from the general prohibition on carrying concealed dangerous weapons.
- Exception-Prohibited Persons: Individuals prohibited from possessing firearms (such as convicted felons, those under certain restraining orders, or with specific mental health commitments) cannot carry a concealed knife that qualifies as a “dangerous weapon.” Violating this law can result in a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 9 months in jail and/or a $10,000 fine.
Definition of “Dangerous Weapon”
- Wisconsin law defines a “dangerous weapon” as any device designed as a weapon and capable of producing death or great bodily harm, or any instrumentality likely to produce such harm in the manner it is used or intended to be used.
- Not all knives are automatically considered dangerous weapons; it depends on their design and intended use. For example, knives designed as weapons (like daggers) are more likely to be classified as dangerous weapons, while utility knives or kitchen knives may not be, unless used or intended to be used as a weapon.
Statewide Preemption and Local Laws
- Uniform State Law: Wisconsin has a preemption law that prevents local governments from enacting knife ordinances stricter than state law. This ensures uniformity across all cities and counties-local blade length limits (such as Milwaukee’s former 3-inch rule) no longer apply.
- Local Restrictions on Government Property: Local governments may still restrict knives in specific government buildings or facilities, so always check posted rules when entering such locations.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: Carrying knives on K-12 school property-including buildings, grounds, athletic fields, and recreation areas-is strictly prohibited and can lead to felony charges.
- Minors: It is unlawful to transfer a dangerous weapon (which may include certain knives) to a minor under 18.
Disorderly Conduct and Knife Carry
- Protection Against Pretextual Charges: Wisconsin law now protects lawful knife carriers from being charged with disorderly conduct solely for carrying a knife, unless there are additional facts indicating criminal or malicious intent.
\Table: Wisconsin Knife Laws
| Aspect | Rule/Status |
|---|---|
| Knife Type | All types legal (switchblades, automatics, etc.) |
| Blade Length | No restrictions |
| Concealed Carry | Legal for most, except “dangerous weapons” for prohibited persons |
| State Preemption | Yes-local laws cannot be stricter than state law |
| Schools | Knives prohibited on K-12 property |
| Minors | No transfer of dangerous weapons to minors |
| Government Buildings | Local restrictions may apply |
| Disorderly Conduct | Cannot be charged solely for carrying a knife unless criminal intent is shown |
Key Takeaways
- Most adults in Wisconsin can legally own, carry, and conceal any type of knife, with no blade length restriction.
- Felons and other prohibited persons cannot carry concealed knives that are “dangerous weapons”.
- Knives are banned on school property and may be restricted in government buildings.
- State law overrides local knife regulations, ensuring uniform rights across Wisconsin.
- Lawful knife carry is protected from disorderly conduct charges unless there is evidence of criminal intent.
If you are unsure about your specific situation-especially if you have a criminal record or other legal restrictions-consult a qualified attorney to ensure compliance with the law.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/wisconsin/
[2] https://www.kimandlavoy.com/blog/2021/08/is-it-legal-to-carry-a-knife-in-wisconsin/
[3] https://milwaukee-criminal-lawyer.com/wisconsin-knife-laws-2023/
[4] https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-wisconsin-a-legal-guide/
[5] https://ravencresttactical.com/wisconsin-knife-laws/
