Legal Status of Pocket Knives
- Pocket knives are generally legal to own and carry in New Jersey, provided you have a lawful purpose for possession.
- The law does not specifically regulate open carry of legal knives, but carrying any knife with unlawful intent or in restricted areas can result in criminal charges.
Unlawful Possession and Intent
- It is illegal to possess certain knives—such as gravity knives, switchblades, daggers, dirks, stilettos, and ballistic knives—without an “explainable lawful purpose”.
- Carrying a pocket knife for self-defense outside your home is not considered a lawful purpose under New Jersey law.
- Any knife, even a legal pocket knife, becomes illegal if possessed or used with unlawful intent, such as committing a crime or threatening someone.
Blade Length and Age Restrictions
- There are specific restrictions on selling knives to minors: knives with blades of five inches or more, or with an overall length exceeding ten inches, cannot be sold to minors.
- For adults, there is no general blade length restriction for pocket knives, but local ordinances may vary.
Restricted Locations
- Carrying any knife is prohibited on school property without written consent from the school.
- Certain public buildings and government facilities may also restrict knife possession.
Penalties
- Possession of a prohibited knife (such as a switchblade or gravity knife) is a fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Using any knife unlawfully can lead to more severe charges, including third-degree crimes or higher if used in the commission of a violent act.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in New Jersey
| Aspect | Regulation/Restriction |
|---|---|
| Legal to Own | Yes, most pocket knives |
| Legal to Carry | Yes, with lawful purpose; not for self-defense outside the home |
| Prohibited Knives | Gravity, switchblade, dagger, dirk, stiletto, ballistic knives without lawful purpose |
| Blade Length (Adults) | No general limit, but local rules may apply |
| Blade Length (Minors) | Cannot sell knives with 5″+ blade or 10″+ overall length to minors |
| Restricted Locations | Schools (without written consent), some public/government buildings |
| Penalties | Up to 18 months prison, $10,000 fine for prohibited knives; more for unlawful use |
Key Takeaway:
You may legally own and carry a pocket knife in New Jersey if you have a clear, lawful reason (such as work or utility), but not for self-defense outside your home. Avoid carrying knives in restricted areas, and never carry with unlawful intent. Prohibited knives and unlawful use carry serious penalties.
SOURCES
[1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-jersey-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-jersey/
[3] https://ravencresttactical.com/new-jersey-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.tsiglerlaw.com/blog/new-york-knife-laws/
[5] https://njdwiesq.com/criminal-possession-with-a-knife/
