The law in Minnesota is very clear about how people can own and carry knives. Whether you like being outside, collecting things, or are just interested, it is important to know your rights and what you can not do to stay out of trouble with the law.
Find out what you need to know about Minnesota’s knife laws in 2024.
Legal Knives to Own
Minnesota allows the possession of many types of knives, including:
- Folding knives (e.g., pocket knives)
- Fixed-blade knives
- Hunting and utility knives
- Collectible knives, such as swords or daggers
As long as these are not used or meant to be used as a weapon against someone else, they are legal.
Prohibited Knives
By law, Minnesota does not allow these kinds of knives:
It is against the law to own or carry any knife that opens itself with a button, pressure, or a spring. This includes switchblades and automatic knives.
People can not have gravity knives because they open with just a flick of the wrist or the force of gravity.
If you are not sure if a knife is something that is not allowed, you should talk to a lawyer or not carry it at all.
Carrying Knives: What’s Allowed?
There is a difference between carrying a knife openly and carrying it concealed in Minnesota law:
- Pocket knives under four inches can generally be carried without issue, provided they are not used as weapons.
- Fixed-blade knives or larger blades are permissible but may raise questions if carried openly in non-outdoor contexts.
It is against the law to carry a knife with the intent to hurt or threaten other people. Knife self-defense claims can be tricky, and each one is looked at on its own.
Knives in Schools, Public Buildings, and Events
Knife laws become stricter in specific locations:
- Schools: It’s illegal to possess knives on school grounds, even for utility purposes, unless explicitly authorized (e.g., for culinary programs).
- Government buildings and courthouses: Carrying any knife is prohibited in these locations.
- Public events: Local ordinances may restrict knives at public gatherings or events. Always check city or county rules.
Hunting, Camping, and Fishing Exceptions
Because Minnesotans love the outdoors, there are some exceptions:
- Hunting and fishing knives: These are legal to carry while engaging in these activities.
- Camping tools: Machetes, hatchets, and similar blades are acceptable if used for outdoor activities.
Make sure you transport and store these knives correctly when you are not using them.
Local Ordinances
Cities and counties in Minnesota are free to make their own knife laws. Some cities, like Minneapolis and St. Paul, may make it harder to carry a knife in public. Check the laws in your area before carrying a knife.
Key Takeaways
Do not break the law with knives. Only use pocket knives and utility blades.
Stay away from gravity knives and switchblades.
If you carry a knife in a sensitive place, like a school or government building, be careful.
Always check the local rules to see if there are any other restrictions.
You can make sure that your knife ownership and carrying habits are legal in Minnesota by staying informed. If you are not sure about your rights, talk to a lawyer.
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