South Carolina is considered one of the more permissive states regarding pocket knives and other types of knives. However, there are important nuances and local exceptions to be aware of.
General State Law
- Legal to Own and Carry: You can legally own and carry virtually any type of knife, including pocket knives, folding knives, dirks, and daggers.
- Open and Concealed Carry: Both open and concealed carry of pocket knives are generally permitted. There is no statewide restriction on blade length or knife type for adults, as long as the knife is not used with criminal intent.
- Intent Matters: Carrying a knife becomes illegal if it is used or intended to be used in the commission of a crime.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: It is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than two inches on elementary or secondary school property, except for law enforcement or authorized personnel.
- Correctional Facilities: Knives are prohibited in correctional facilities.
- Airports: There is no statewide restriction for knives at airports, but federal TSA regulations apply.
Local Ordinances and Preemption
- Local Restrictions: Some cities, such as Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, have their own ordinances that may further restrict knife carry, particularly regarding blade length and concealed carry. For example, Charleston prohibits concealed carry of knives with blades exceeding three inches.
- State Preemption: While the South Carolina Constitution supports statewide preemption, local ordinances are still enforced in some cities, leading to a patchwork of regulations.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in South Carolina
| Aspect | State Law | Local Variations |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Legal for all types | Rarely restricted |
| Open Carry | Legal | May be restricted locally |
| Concealed Carry | Legal unless for criminal intent | May be restricted locally |
| Schools | Blade ≤ 2 inches only | N/A |
| Correctional Facilities | Prohibited | N/A |
| Airports | No state law, federal rules apply | N/A |
| Blade Length Limit | None statewide (except schools) | Some cities restrict |
Key Takeaways
- You can legally carry a pocket knife in South Carolina for most everyday purposes.
- Be aware of stricter local laws, especially in larger cities.
- Never carry knives with blades over two inches on school property.
- The law is most concerned with intent-using a knife for illegal purposes is always prohibited.
For full legal compliance, always check both state and local regulations before carrying a pocket knife in a new area.
