Virginia Knife Laws: An In-Depth Analysis In 2025

Virginia knife laws generally permit individuals to own most types of knives. However, the carrying of knives, particularly in a concealed manner, and the possession of knives in specific locations are subject to certain restrictions. Recent legislative changes have also altered the legal landscape for specific types of knives, most notably switchblades. The primary focus of Virginia’s knife laws appears to be on regulating the manner and location in which knives are carried, suggesting a legislative concern for public safety in various contexts. The recent amendments to the law regarding switchblades indicate a potential re-evaluation of which knives warrant prohibition or restriction.

Legal and Illegal Knives in Virginia

Generally Legal Knives

Pocket knives equipped with folding metal blades that are less than three inches long face minimal restrictions under Virginia knife laws. These knives can typically be carried either openly or concealed by individuals. Furthermore, folding knives that do not have specific length limitations imposed upon them are generally considered legal to own and carry within the Commonwealth. Utility knives, commonly used for everyday tasks, and hunting and fishing knives, essential tools for outdoor activities, are also typically legal to own and carry without general restrictions. Notably, dirks and Bowie knives, historically significant blade types, are also legal to possess in Virginia. The broad legality of owning various knife types suggests that Virginia law primarily focuses on regulating their use and carry rather than their mere possession.

Restricted Knives

Virginia law imposes significant restrictions on certain categories of knives. Ballistic knives, which feature a blade that can be ejected from the handle by a spring-loaded mechanism or explosive charge, are heavily restricted in possession and transfer. This effectively renders them practically prohibited within the state. Virginia Code § 18.2-311 explicitly prohibits selling or possessing certain weapons, including ballistic knives. This near-prohibition underscores a clear legislative intent to limit the presence of these specific types of knives due to their potential for misuse.

In contrast, the legal status of switchblades has undergone recent changes. As of July 1, 2022, the restrictions on the possession and transfer of switchblades were repealed in Virginia. Subsequently, effective July 1, 2023, switchblades were removed from the list of weapons that are prohibited from being carried in a concealed manner. These changes signify a notable shift in the legal treatment of switchblades within the Commonwealth. However, it remains a Class 1 misdemeanor to furnish switchblades to minors. Virginia Code § 18.2-309 outlines the penalties associated with furnishing certain weapons, including switchblades, to individuals under the age of eighteen. This provision indicates a continuing concern about the accessibility of switchblades to minors, even as their legality for adults has been broadened.

Open Carry Regulations

Virginia law exhibits relative leniency when it comes to the open carry of most types of knives. This generally encompasses common knife types such as pocket knives, utility blades, and even larger knives like dirks and bowie knives. Notably, there are typically no statewide restrictions on the length of blades for knives that are carried openly in most circumstances. This approach suggests a more permissive stance towards the visible carrying of knives. However, it is important to note that this general permissiveness at the state level is subject to potential variations at the local level. Virginia does not have statewide preemption for knife laws in most areas, with the exception of airports. Consequently, local ordinances enacted by cities, counties, or towns may impose stricter regulations on the open carry of knives. Individuals are therefore advised to verify local laws, particularly in more densely populated urban areas, to ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations. The absence of comprehensive statewide uniformity, except in specific instances, creates a regulatory landscape where local context is crucial for understanding the full scope of legal obligations.

Concealed Carry Regulations

The regulations governing the concealed carry of knives in Virginia are more restrictive compared to those for open carry. Virginia Code § 18.2-308 explicitly states that it is unlawful for any person to carry about their person, hidden from common observation, specific types of knives. These prohibited knives include any dirk, bowie knife, stiletto knife, ballistic knife, machete, razor, sling bow, spring stick, metal knucks, or blackjack. This statute clearly delineates the types of cutting instruments that are deemed more dangerous when carried in a concealed manner. For the purposes of this law, a weapon is considered to be hidden from common observation when it is not readily visible, even if it is only partially covered by clothing or is disguised in a deceptive manner. The act of carrying a knife in a handbag, backpack, or briefcase is also considered to be concealed carry under Virginia law.

However, an exception to these concealed carry restrictions exists for pocket knives that have a folding metal blade of less than three inches in length. These smaller, more utilitarian knives are generally permitted to be carried concealed without violating the statute. Furthermore, a significant recent change in Virginia law pertains to switchblade knives. Effective July 1, 2023, switchblades were removed from the list of weapons that are prohibited from being carried concealed in public. This amendment, signed into law by Governor Glenn Youngkin, marks a notable liberalization of the rules surrounding switchblades.

The following table summarizes the legality of concealed carry for various types of knives under Virginia state law:

It is important to note the inclusion of “any weapon of like kind” in the list of prohibited concealed weapons. This clause introduces a degree of ambiguity, as it is not explicitly defined in the statute. The determination of whether a particular knife falls under this category may depend on factors such as its design, intended use, and similarity to the enumerated prohibited weapons.

Restricted Locations for Knives

Virginia law establishes specific locations where the possession of certain knives is restricted or prohibited to ensure public safety and security. Schools, including the property of any child day center or private or religious school, are subject to strict regulations. Virginia Code § 18.2-308.1 prohibits any person from knowingly possessing any knife on school property, except for a pocket knife having a folding metal blade of less than three inches. This prohibition extends to school buses and grounds where school functions are taking place. For the purposes of this section, a knife having a metal blade of three inches or longer is considered a “weapon,” and a “closed container” includes a locked vehicle trunk. This indicates that while larger knives are generally prohibited on school grounds, they may be permissible if stored securely in a vehicle.

Places of religious worship also have restrictions. Virginia Code § 18.2-283 prohibits the carrying of dangerous weapons, which includes bowie knives or daggers, while a meeting for religious purposes is being held, unless the person has good and sufficient reason for doing so. This restriction aims to maintain the sanctity and safety of religious gatherings.

Courthouses are another category of restricted locations. Virginia Code § 18.2-283.1 prohibits the carrying of any weapon, including knives (with the same exception for pocket knives with a folding metal blade less than three inches as in schools), into any courthouse in the Commonwealth. This measure is in place to ensure the security and integrity of the judicial process.

Similarly, airports are subject to restrictions under Virginia Code § 18.2-287.01, which establishes a uniform statewide rule for air carrier airport terminals. Carrying weapons, including knives (again, with the exception of pocket knives with a folding metal blade less than three inches), into these terminals is prohibited. This regulation aligns with federal concerns about aviation safety and security.

Beyond these specific locations, many government buildings within Virginia also restrict or prohibit the carrying of knives. Individuals entering such buildings should be aware of and comply with any posted policies regarding weapons. The consistent exception for small folding pocket knives in schools, courthouses, and airports suggests a recognition that these tools are generally less threatening in those contexts compared to larger fixed-blade or other types of knives.

Brandishing Laws

Virginia law addresses the act of brandishing certain bladed weapons in a threatening manner. Virginia Code § 18.2-282.1 makes it unlawful for any person to point, hold, or brandish a machete or any weapon with an exposed blade that is 12 inches or longer with the intent of intimidating any person or group of persons. The manner in which the weapon is displayed must reasonably demonstrate that intent to be considered a violation. A person who violates this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the violation occurs upon any public, private, or religious elementary, middle, or high school, including buildings and grounds, or upon public property within 1,000 feet of such school property, the offense is elevated to a Class 6 felony. Importantly, this section explicitly states that it does not apply to any person engaged in excusable or justifiable self-defense. The specific blade length of 12 inches serves as a clear threshold for what constitutes a more serious form of brandishing. The enhanced penalty for brandishing near schools underscores the heightened concern for the safety and well-being of students and school personnel. The inclusion of a self-defense exception acknowledges the fundamental right to protect oneself from harm.

Sale and Transfer Restrictions

Virginia law places specific restrictions on the sale and transfer of certain types of knives, particularly to minors. It is unlawful for any person to sell, barter, give, or furnish a ballistic knife to a minor. Furthermore, Virginia Code § 18.2-309 specifies that if any person sells, barters, gives, or furnishes a switchblade knife, dirk, or bowie knife to any minor, having good cause to believe them to be a minor, such person shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. These regulations reflect a legislative effort to prevent minors from easily acquiring certain types of knives that are deemed potentially more dangerous or prone to misuse. The specific prohibition against furnishing switchblades, dirks, and bowie knives to minors, coupled with the penalty of a Class 1 misdemeanor, indicates the seriousness with which the Commonwealth views this issue.

Exceptions to Knife Laws

Virginia law provides several exceptions to the general prohibitions regarding the carrying of weapons, which may include knives. Law enforcement officers on duty are generally exempt from restrictions pertaining to weapons in courthouses and air terminals. More broadly, members of law enforcement and military personnel are typically exempt from many of the restrictions imposed on civilians, allowing them to carry knives both openly and concealed while performing their official duties. Virginia Code § 18.2-308 explicitly includes exceptions for law enforcement officers, recognizing their professional need to carry such instruments.

Knife collectors also receive specific consideration under the law. Regularly enrolled members of bona fide weapons collecting organizations are exempt from certain concealed carry restrictions when they are traveling to or from a legitimate weapons exhibition, provided that the weapons are unloaded and securely wrapped during transport. This exception acknowledges the legitimate hobby of collecting knives while also incorporating safety measures.

Individuals engaged in lawful hunting are also exempt from certain concealed carry restrictions under specific conditions, as authorized by the Board of Wildlife Resources. This exception recognizes the use of knives as tools in hunting activities.

Finally, carriers of the United States mail are exempt from the restrictions on concealed carry while they are on duty. This exemption likely acknowledges the various tasks performed by mail carriers that may necessitate carrying a knife. These exceptions demonstrate a legislative balancing act between regulating the carrying of potentially dangerous items and recognizing the legitimate needs of certain professions and activities.

Recent Legislative Changes

Virginia has seen notable changes to its knife laws in recent years, particularly concerning switchblade knives. Effective July 1, 2022, the restrictions on the possession and transfer of switchblade knives within the Commonwealth were repealed. This meant that individuals were no longer prohibited from owning or selling switchblades. Following this change, effective July 1, 2023, switchblade knives were further removed from the list of weapons that are prohibited from being carried in a concealed manner in public. This subsequent amendment, resulting from legislation signed into law by Governor Glenn Youngkin (House Bill 2298), effectively legalized the concealed carry of switchblades for adults in Virginia. These legislative actions represent a significant liberalization of Virginia’s stance on switchblade knives, moving away from a more restrictive approach towards one that aligns them more closely with other types of knives. This shift could reflect evolving societal views on these tools or a reassessment of their potential for harm.

Definition of Key Terms

The interpretation of Virginia’s knife laws often hinges on the definition of specific terms related to different types of knives. For terms like dirk, the Virginia Supreme Court has relied on dictionary definitions. According to these sources, a “dirk” is defined as “a long straight-bladed dagger or a short sword”. In contrast, California law defines a dirk or dagger more broadly as any knife or other instrument primarily designed for stabbing and capable of causing significant injury or death.

Similarly, the definition of a bowie knife in Virginia legal contexts also draws from dictionary definitions adopted by the Supreme Court. A “bowie knife” is described as “a large hunting knife adapted [especially] for knife-fighting” with a blade typically ranging from 10 to 15 inches in length. Historically, the term “bowie knife” has been used to refer to a variety of large knives suitable for fighting, hunting, and utility purposes, without a single, universally agreed-upon design.

The term stiletto does not appear to have a specific statutory definition within the provided research material for Virginia law. Generally, a stiletto is understood to be a type of dagger characterized by a long, slender blade with a needle-like point, primarily designed for thrusting.

Virginia law does provide a statutory definition for a ballistic knife in Virginia Code § 18.2-307.1. It is defined as a knife with a blade that can be ejected from the handle to a distance by means of a spring mechanism or explosive charge.

A switchblade knife is generally understood as a knife whose blade opens automatically from the handle when hand pressure is applied to a button, spring, or other activating device located on the handle. The reliance on dictionary definitions for some key knife types by the Virginia courts introduces a degree of interpretative flexibility, while the statutory definition for ballistic knives offers more precise legal guidance for that particular category. The absence of a specific legal definition for “stiletto” in Virginia might lead to reliance on common understanding and dictionary definitions in legal proceedings.

Blade Length Considerations

While Virginia law does not impose a general statewide restriction on the blade length of knives that can be carried, either openly or concealed (except for specific prohibited types), there are important exceptions to this. A critical exception pertains to specific sensitive locations. On school property, as well as in courthouses and air carrier airport terminals, only pocket knives that have a folding metal blade of less than three inches in length are permitted. This three-inch limit in these locations reflects a legislative concern for safety and security in environments where large or fixed-blade knives could pose a greater risk.

Notably, Virginia law does not explicitly specify a particular method for measuring the blade length of a knife. In the absence of a state-mandated protocol, organizations such as the American Knife & Tool Institute (AKTI) recommend specific procedures for measuring blade length, which are often consistent with practices in other U.S. jurisdictions.

Blade length also plays a role in Virginia’s brandishing laws. The prohibition against brandishing applies specifically to weapons with an exposed blade that is 12 inches or longer. This establishes a clear length threshold for this particular offense. The absence of a general blade length restriction for carry, coupled with the specific three-inch limit in sensitive locations and the twelve-inch threshold for brandishing, highlights the nuanced way in which blade length is considered within Virginia’s knife regulations.

Penalties for Violating Knife Laws

Violations of Virginia’s knife laws can result in significant legal consequences. Carrying a concealed weapon that is prohibited under Virginia Code § 18.2-308 (such as a dirk, bowie knife, or machete) is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense. This carries a potential penalty of up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Subsequent violations of the concealed carry statute are treated more severely. A second violation is classified as a Class 6 felony, which is punishable by a prison term of 1 to 5 years and a fine of up to $2,500. A third or any subsequent violation is considered a Class 5 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years and a fine of up to $2,500.

Possession of any knife (with the exception of a pocket knife having a folding metal blade less than three inches) on school property is also a Class 1 misdemeanor. Furnishing certain prohibited knives, such as switchblades, dirks, or bowie knives, to a minor is also classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Finally, brandishing a machete or another bladed weapon with an exposed blade of 12 inches or longer with the intent to intimidate is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if this act occurs on or within 1,000 feet of school property, it is elevated to a Class 6 felony. The tiered penalties for concealed carry offenses, along with the specific penalties for violations in sensitive locations and for brandishing, underscore the Commonwealth’s commitment to enforcing its knife regulations.

Conclusion

Virginia law establishes a framework that generally permits the ownership and open carry of a wide variety of knives. However, significant restrictions are placed on the concealed carry of specific types of knives, including dirks, bowie knives, and machetes, reflecting concerns about public safety. Sensitive locations such as schools, places of religious worship, courthouses, and airports have even stricter regulations regarding the types and sizes of knives that can be possessed. The recent legislative changes legalizing the concealed carry of switchblade knives represent a notable shift in the state’s approach to knife regulation. Given the specific prohibitions and the potential for local ordinances to impose additional restrictions, it is crucial for individuals to be well-informed about Virginia’s knife laws to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal ramifications. The reliance on dictionary definitions for certain prohibited knives also highlights the importance of exercising caution when carrying knives that might fall under those broadly defined categories.