If you live in Virginia or plan to travel there, it’s important to know the knife laws in the state. While Virginia allows many types of knives, there are strict rules about how and where you can carry them.
This guide will help you understand the legal types of knives, where they’re allowed, and what could happen if you break the law.
Are Knives Legal in Virginia?
Yes, knives are legal to own in Virginia. However, not all knives are treated the same. Some, like switchblades and ballistic knives, are heavily restricted. You can own most knives, but carrying them in certain places or hiding them on your body could get you into legal trouble.
Understanding Knife Categories in Virginia
Virginia sorts knives into different categories depending on how dangerous they are and how they are used.
Restricted Knives
Some knives are not allowed or are strictly controlled. These include:
Switchblades
Ballistic knives
Dirks
Bowie knives
These are considered more dangerous, and carrying or using them the wrong way can lead to serious charges, like a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
Unrestricted Knives
Most regular pocket knives are unrestricted. If the blade is under 3 inches, they are generally safe to carry openly. However, even these knives are not allowed in certain locations like schools or airports. Also, you can’t sell knives to minors.
Concealed Carry Rules in Virginia
Carrying a knife that is hidden from view is called concealed carry. Virginia has strict rules about this.
What Knives Are Illegal to Conceal?
You are not allowed to hide the following knives on your body or in your belongings:
Bowie knives
Dirks
Switchblades
Machetes
Razors
If you’re caught, you can be charged with a Class 1 Misdemeanor, which can lead to jail time and fines.
Extra Rules in Sensitive Places
Virginia has tighter rules for schools, courts, churches, and airports. Carrying a knife in these places, even if it’s small, can lead to more serious punishment.
If you keep a knife in your car, it must be stored in a safe, locked way — away from reach and not ready to use.
Knife Laws in Specific Locations
Schools
Knives are only allowed in schools if they are folding pocket knives with blades under 3 inches. Anything more than that is not allowed, and breaking this rule can lead to arrest.
Religious Places
Knives are usually not allowed in places of worship during services. Only people with a valid reason, like those working in security, may be allowed to carry one.
Courthouses and Airports
These places have strict “zero tolerance” policies. No knives over 3 inches are allowed. The law clearly explains how to measure blade size, and violating these rules can lead to serious trouble.
Open Carry Laws in Virginia
Openly carrying knives is legal in Virginia for most knife types. But some knives cannot be carried even in plain sight.
Which Knives Can Be Carried Openly?
You can carry:
Pocket knives (under 3 inches)
Utility or work knives (with clear purpose)
But you cannot openly carry restricted knives like bowie knives, machetes, or switchblades in sensitive places.
Penalties for Breaking Open Carry Laws
Breaking open carry laws can result in a Class 4 felony, which is very serious. This can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. So it’s important to know exactly which knives are allowed and where you can carry them.
Legal Statutes That Cover Knife Laws
Virginia has a few important laws that cover knife rules. These include:
18.2-282.1: Use of knives in threatening ways
18.2-283 & 18.2-283.1: Rules for knives in religious places and schools
18.2-287.01: Rules for carrying certain knives in public areas
These laws are made to protect people while still allowing legal knife ownership and responsible use.
Exceptions for Collectors and Military Personnel
Knife Collectors
If you’re a knife collector and part of a recognized group or visiting a show, some exceptions apply. Your knives are viewed differently because they are part of a hobby and not meant for everyday use or harm.
Military and Law Enforcement
People in the military or law enforcement can carry knives as part of their job. Special rules apply to them because of the nature of their work.
These exceptions ensure that people with a valid reason to carry knives are not unfairly punished.
Knife laws in Virginia are clear but strict. You are allowed to own and carry many types of knives, but you must follow specific rules, especially for carrying them in public or hiding them. Certain knives are banned or restricted, and using them the wrong way can land you in serious legal trouble.
To be a responsible knife owner, always check the size of the knife, where you’re carrying it, and whether it’s visible or concealed. Staying updated with current laws is also a smart move, as laws can change over time. By following these rules, you can safely enjoy your rights while keeping yourself and others protected.
