Ownership and Possession
- Legal to Own: North Carolina law allows you to own most types of knives, including pocket knives, bowie knives, dirks, daggers, and other bladed tools. There are no statewide restrictions on simply possessing these knives in your home or collection.
- Prohibited Knives: Ballistic knives and spring-loaded projectile knives are illegal to possess, sell, or transport for civilians.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
Open Carry:
- Generally Legal: You can openly carry almost any type of knife in public, except for prohibited projectile knives.
Concealed Carry:
- Ordinary Pocket Knife Exception:
- North Carolina law makes it illegal to carry certain knives concealed (like bowie knives, dirks, daggers, razors, or similar deadly weapons).
- Exception: An “ordinary pocket knife” carried in a closed position is not considered a concealed weapon under the law.
- Definition: An ordinary pocket knife is a small folding knife, designed for pocket or purse carry, with the cutting edge and point entirely enclosed by its handle, and that cannot be opened by throwing, explosive, or spring action.
- Switchblades and Assisted-Openers: These are generally not included in the “ordinary pocket knife” exception if they open by spring or similar mechanism.
- Other Knives: Concealed carry of larger or fixed-blade knives (bowie, dirk, dagger, etc.) is illegal except on your own premises.
- Penalties: Violating concealed carry laws is a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and fines. Knives may be confiscated upon conviction.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: It is illegal to possess any sharp-pointed or edged instrument, including ordinary pocket knives, on educational property—whether carried openly or concealed.
- Government Buildings: Restrictions often apply; check local rules before carrying any knife.
2025 Legislative Update
- House Bill 439 (Effective December 1, 2025):
- Expands and clarifies the rules for concealed carry of knives in North Carolina.
- Maintains the ordinary pocket knife exception but details requirements and further defines what constitutes a legal pocket knife for concealed carry.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Carry in North Carolina
| Scenario | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open carry (most knives) | Legal | Except projectile/ballistic knives |
| Concealed carry (ordinary pocket knife) | Legal | Must be folding, closed, not spring/auto-opening |
| Concealed carry (other knives) | Illegal (Class 2 misdemeanor) | Unless on your own premises |
| Carry on school property | Illegal | Applies to all knives |
| Ballistic/projectile knives | Illegal | Possession, sale, or transport prohibited |
You may legally own and openly carry most knives in North Carolina. Concealed carry is generally prohibited except for ordinary pocket knives—defined as small, non-automatic folding knives carried closed. All knives are banned on school property, and ballistic knives are illegal statewide. New legislation effective December 2025 clarifies and maintains these core rules.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.ncleg.gov/Sessions/2025/Bills/House/PDF/H439v1.pdf
[2] https://www.ncleg.gov/Sessions/2025/Bills/House/PDF/H439v2.pdf
[3] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/north-carolina/
[4] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/north-carolina-knife-laws/
[5] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-north-carolina-your-guide-to-legal-carry/
