West Virginia’s knife laws are relatively permissive, allowing for the ownership and carry of various types of knives, including pocket knives. However, there are specific regulations regarding their concealed carry and restrictions based on age and location.
Ownership and Open Carry
- Legal Ownership: Individuals in West Virginia can legally own a wide range of knives, including pocket knives, switchblades, balisongs, and even ballistic knives. There are no restrictions on the types of knives that can be possessed.
- Open Carry: Open carry of knives is generally permitted without any blade length restrictions. This means individuals can carry knives in plain view, such as on a belt sheath, in most locations throughout the state.
Concealed Carry Regulations
- Age Restrictions: To carry a concealed knife legally, individuals must be at least 21 years old. Those between 18 and 21 can only carry concealed knives with blades shorter than 3.5 inches. For this age group, carrying a concealed knife longer than this limit or certain types (like switchblades or gravity knives) is prohibited and can lead to felony charges.
- Blade Length Limit: Concealed carry is restricted to knives with blades that are 3.5 inches or shorter unless the individual possesses a permit. Knives exceeding this length require a concealed weapons permit, which is available only to those over 21 who meet specific criteria.
- Permit Requirements: To obtain a concealed carry permit for knives classified as “deadly weapons,” applicants must pay a fee and pass a background check. The permit is valid for five years and requires the applicant to have no felony convictions or significant misdemeanors within the past five years.
Local Ordinances and Restrictions
- State Preemption: West Virginia has statewide preemption laws that prevent local governments from enacting knife laws more restrictive than state law. However, local ordinances may still exist, particularly in major cities, which could impose additional restrictions on knife carrying.
- Prohibited Locations: Knives are generally prohibited on school property, including K-12 schools and school-sponsored events. This includes pocket knives with blades shorter than 3.5 inches
Sources:
- https://knifeup.com/west-virginia-knife-laws/
- https://www.knifeden.com/knife-laws-in-west-virginia/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/wv-permitless-carry-incl-knives-passed-knife-rights-preemption-bill-stalled/
