Ohio’s knife laws have undergone significant changes, especially with the enactment of Senate Bill 140 in April 2021, which modernized and clarified the legal landscape for knife ownership and carrying in the state.
General Knife Ownership and Carrying Rights
- Ownership: Ohio does not prohibit owning any type of knife. There are no knives illegal to own in Ohio, including switchblades, butterfly knives (balisongs), and other folding or fixed blades.
- Open Carry: It is generally legal to carry any knife openly in Ohio without significant restrictions, provided the knife is not used to threaten or intimidate others. Open carry is allowed on your person or in your vehicle.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of knives is permitted unless the knife is classified as “dangerous ordnance” or intended to be used as a weapon. Senate Bill 140 specifically allows concealed carry of knives as long as they are not used unlawfully. However, certain knives such as stilettos, switchblades, butterfly knives, gravity knives, daggers, and dirks are considered deadly weapons if carried concealed with intent to harm.
Senate Bill 140 and Its Impact
- This bill, effective April 10, 2021, removed the automatic classification of knives as deadly weapons. Now, knives are not considered weapons unless they are used as such or designed specifically for harm.
- The law repealed the statewide ban on the manufacture and sale of automatically opening pocket or folding knives, making these legal to own and carry.
- The focus shifted from the type of knife to the intent and manner of use, meaning carrying a knife for legitimate purposes like work, recreation, or self-defense is legal.
Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
- Despite the relaxed rules, carrying knives is prohibited in certain sensitive areas such as courthouses and school zones.
- Law enforcement officers and military personnel are generally exempt from many restrictions when carrying knives in the course of their duties.
Key Points to Remember
- No blade length restrictions exist under Ohio state law; blades longer than 4 inches are legal to carry.
- Concealed carry of knives is legal unless the knife is used or intended as a weapon.
- The definition of a “deadly weapon” now depends on use and intent rather than the knife type alone.
- Local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions, so it is important to check local laws.
- Carrying a knife with the intent to harm or threaten others can lead to criminal charges.
Summary Table of Ohio Knife Laws
| Aspect | Legal Status in Ohio |
|---|---|
| Ownership | All knives legal to own, including switchblades and balisongs |
| Open Carry | Legal without significant restrictions |
| Concealed Carry | Legal unless knife is a “dangerous ordnance” or used as weapon |
| Blade Length | No state restriction on blade length |
| Prohibited Knives | Ballistic knives, switchblades (when concealed with intent) |
| Restricted Locations | Courthouses, school zones |
| Law Enforcement Exemptions | Yes, for duty-related carrying |
This legal framework provides Ohio residents with broad rights to own and carry knives, emphasizing responsible use and intent rather than strict prohibitions on knife types. Always ensure compliance with local ordinances and avoid carrying knives in restricted areas to stay within the law.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/ohio/
- https://www.keatingfirmlaw.com/post/what-size-knife-is-legal
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/ohio-knife-laws/
- https://www.gafirm.com/legal-blog/what-are-the-ohio-knife-laws/
- https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/ohio-knife-laws/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knife_legislation
