Virginia’s knife laws offer significant freedom for ownership and open carry but impose important restrictions on concealed carry, certain knife types, and specific locations. Here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.
Legal Knife Ownership
- Most knives are legal to own. Virginia does not ban the ownership of any common knife type, including pocket knives, folding knives, utility blades, hunting and fishing knives, dirks, bowie knives, and butterfly (balisong) knives.
- Ballistic knives (knives that eject a blade via spring or explosive force) are effectively prohibited and illegal to own, sell, or furnish.
Open Carry
- Open carry of knives is broadly permitted. You can openly carry most knives-including large knives like dirks and bowie knives-without restriction in most public spaces.
- Local ordinances may vary. Some cities or counties may have stricter rules, so always check local laws before carrying a knife openly in urban areas.
Concealed Carry
- Pocket knives with blades under 3 inches: You may carry these concealed without restriction.
- Switchblades and butterfly knives: As of July 1, 2023, you can legally carry these concealed in Virginia, provided you comply with other laws.
- Restricted knives: It is illegal to carry the following knives concealed:
- Dirks
- Bowie knives
- Ballistic knives
- Machetes
- Razors
- Any knife “of like kind” to those listed above
- Penalties: Carrying a restricted knife concealed is a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in jail time or fines.
Knife Laws in Sensitive Locations
- Schools: Only pocket knives with folding blades under 3 inches are allowed on school property. All other knives are prohibited, whether carried openly or concealed.
- Courthouses and airports: Knives are generally banned, except for pocket knives with blades under 3 inches.
- Places of worship: Carrying dangerous knives during services is prohibited unless you have a good reason.
Sales and Transfers
- Ballistic knives: Illegal to sell, give, or furnish to anyone.
- Switchblades, dirks, bowie knives: Illegal to sell, give, or furnish to minors (under 18); doing so is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Brandishing and Intent
- Brandishing any knife in a threatening manner (such as waving a machete to intimidate) is illegal and can result in criminal charges, especially if the blade is 12 inches or longer.
- Intent matters: Carrying a knife with the intent to harm or intimidate is always illegal, regardless of the knife type.
Table: Virginia Knife Laws (2025)
| Knife Type | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes & Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket knife (<3″ blade) | Legal | Legal | Legal in most locations |
| Switchblade/Butterfly knife | Legal | Legal | Since July 1, 2023 |
| Dirk, Bowie, Machete, Razor | Legal | Illegal | Concealed carry is a misdemeanor |
| Ballistic knife | Illegal | Illegal | Prohibited to own, carry, or transfer |
| All knives (schools, courts, airports) | Restricted | Restricted | Only pocket knives <3″ allowed |
Key Takeaways
- Open carry is broadly allowed, but concealed carry is restricted for certain knives.
- Schools, courthouses, and airports have strict knife rules-usually only allowing small pocket knives.
- Brandishing or carrying with harmful intent is always illegal.
- Check local ordinances for additional restrictions.
Understanding these rules will help you exercise your knife rights responsibly and legally in Virginia.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/virginia/
[2] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/virgina-knife-laws/
[3] https://sustainable-markets.org/post/virginia-pocket-knife-laws
[4] https://ravencresttactical.com/virginia-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.smplclaw.com/blog/2025/03/virginia-butterfly-knife-laws-facing-illegal-possession-charges/
