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Arizona Knife Laws

August 20, 2020

Out of the 50 states, Arizona has some of the most lenient knife laws. Very few restrictions exist related to the purchase, sale, ownership, and carrying of knives. However, it’s still important to have a comprehensive understanding of these laws to avoid a potential violation and ensure compliance with the legal exceptions that may apply. The guide below aims to clear any confusion surrounding knife ownership in Arizona, helping you stay informed and aware of your rights and responsibilities.

If you find yourself facing legal challenges related to knife laws, the experienced Phoenix criminal attorneys at the Belen Law Firm are here to help. Call (602) 715-0908 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation regarding your case today.

What is Considered a Knife?

The term “knife” refers to an instrument used for cutting that possesses a sharpened or pointed blade. According to legal definitions, knives encompass a variety of tools, including pocket knives, hunting knives, and utility blades. Knives are generally considered tools under the law until their use or intended use aligns more closely with the definition of a “weapon,” such as being used or threatened in a dangerous manner.

Arizona Knife-Carrying Regulations

Compared to firearms, knives in Arizona have a great deal fewer regulations. In fact, ARS 13-3120 sets regulations for knife laws in the state of Arizona. It prohibits local governments from regulating the possession, transportation, or use of knives.

It also states that persons carrying knives must follow and obey laws governing concealed weapons. This includes a prohibition from carrying knives in courtrooms, school, or other government buildings. Additionally, it’s illegal to carry a knife in the commission of a crime or act of terrorism.

Are You Allowed to Carry a Knife in Arizona?

State law generally allows individuals to carry knives openly or concealed without significant restrictions. However, there are specific instances where the law does impose restrictions on carrying knives in certain locations. For example, it is illegal to possess a knife on school grounds, secured areas of airports, government buildings, or private premises that prohibit weapons.

How Old Do You Have to Be To Buy a Knife?

In Arizona, there is no minimum age requirement under state law to purchase a knife. However, individual retailers may impose their own policies, often requiring buyers to be at least 18 years old, so be sure to check store policies before attempting to buy a knife.

Can a Minor Carry a Knife?

Under Arizona law, minors are generally allowed to carry knives as long as they do not use them in a manner that constitutes a weapon or violates specific restrictions. However, carrying knives on school grounds or in other prohibited locations is strictly forbidden, regardless of age. Parents and guardians should ensure minors understand the responsibilities and legal boundaries of carrying knives to avoid unintentional violations of Arizona law.

Is a Knife a Deadly Weapon?

The definition of “deadly weapon” includes any object designed for lethal use. Firearms fall into this category, but knives are not automatically included.

While a knife has the potential to cause significant damage, it is not classified as a weapon unless the purpose of its use changes. In general, knives are considered tools in Arizona – that is, of course, until the intent behind their use changes. If a knife is used in the act of committing a crime, that crime’s charges will then escalate due to the presence of a dangerous weapon. In this case, you would want a seasoned Phoenix violent crimes attorney on your side to fight such charges.

Is it Legal to Carry a Pocket Knife?

Any folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches in length qualifies as a “pocket knife.” In Arizona, citizens of any age can legally carry a pocket knife. This includes a knife on their immediate person or within their mode of transportation.

Do You Need a License to Carry a Knife in Arizona?

No, you do not need a license to carry a knife in Arizona. The state permits the open or concealed carry of knives, including pocket knives, fixed-blade knives, and even larger blades like swords, without requiring a license.

Is It Illegal To Have a Knife in Your Car?

The state of Arizona makes no distinction between open carry and concealed carry; the same rules apply to both cases. If for whatever reason, you are stopped, pulled over, etc., Arizona knife laws do require individuals to inform police officers or other law enforcement officers if they are carrying a knife.

What is the Legal Length of a Knife in Arizona?

Technically, no formal restrictions apply to the length of blade, closure type, or number of edges a knife may have. As such, individuals are permittd to carry a knife of any blade length within their rights to carry.

Can a Felon Carry a Knife?

The subject of knife ownership and possession after a felony conviction in Arizona can become complicated. Individuals convicted of a crime and placed on the prohibited possessor list may not own or carry a deadly weapon. The key thing to consider in this instance remains what constitutes a deadly weapon. Most household knives or pocket knives do meet the criteria for consideration as deadly weapons. Hunting knives and switchblades, however, would most likely classify as a deadly weapon.

Overall, the scope of use and intention behind possession of the knife takes priority when determining whether someone legally possesses a knife.

Who Cannot Carry a Knife in Arizona?

In 2013, state legislation was enacted to override local laws, streamlining and simplifying the complex array of statutes related to knife possession and use. These Arizona knife laws are designed to prevent conflicts with local municipal ordinances regarding knives.

However, sometimes the law can conflict itself. This can be the case with prohibited possessors and domestic violence offenses in Arizona.

According to Arizona legislation, “Prohibited possessor” means any person:

Found to constitute a danger to self or others;
Convicted of a felony or adjudicated delinquent for a felony and whose civil right to possess or carry a firearm has not been restored;
At the time of possession, serving time within a correctional facility or center;
At the time of possession, serving a probation term;
Undocumented or a nonimmigrant alien traveling with/without documentation for business or pleasure or studying in Arizona and maintains a foreign residence abroad; or
Found incompetent pursuant to Rule 11 of Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure

For individuals classified as prohibited possessors, any use of a deadly weapon results in harsh penalties and potential prison time.

As you can see, Arizona law permits the ownership and carrying of most types of knives, making nearly all knives legal knives under state regulations. However, knives become illegal when used with criminal intent or carried in prohibited locations, such as school grounds or certain government buildings. Additionally, private property owners and establishments may impose their own restrictions on carrying knives, which must be respected to avoid potential legal issues.

Is it Legal to Carry a Sword?

Yes, it is legal to carry a sword in Arizona. State law does not impose restrictions on carrying large blades, including swords, whether openly or concealed.

Are Double-Edged Knives Legal?

Yes, double-edged knives, such as daggers, are legal in Arizona. Of course, it is essential to use daggers responsibly and avoid carrying them in prohibited locations, such as schools, government buildings, or private properties that ban weapons. Misusing a double-edged knife in a dangerous or unlawful manner could lead to serious legal consequences.

Are Automatic Knives Legal in Arizona?

Yes – the state does not restrict the ownership, sale, or carrying of automatic knives, including switchblades, allowing individuals to possess and use them without specific limitations under state law.

Are Gravity Knives Legal in Arizona?

A gravity knife is a type of folding knife with a blade that opens using the force of gravity or inertia. Unlike traditional folding knives, a gravity knife’s blade is released by pressing a button or lever, allowing it to swing or drop into a locked position without the need for manual opening.

These knives were originally designed for utility purposes, such as cutting parachute lines in emergencies, but they have since become a topic of legal concern in some jurisdictions due to their quick deployment mechanism. In Arizona, however, gravity knives are legal to own and carry, as long as they are used responsibly and not carried in prohibited locations.

Are Switchblades Legal in Arizona?

A switchblade knife, also known as an automatic knife, features a blade that springs open when a button or lever is pressed and locks into place securely. State law does not consider switchblades illegal, allowing individuals to own, sell, and carry them without restrictions on blade type or deployment mechanism. If you carry a switchblade, always ensure the knife is locked safely when not in use to avoid accidents or misuse.

Are Butterfly Knife Illegal in Arizona?

No, butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are not illegal in Arizona. These knives, characterized by their two rotating handles that conceal the blade when closed, are treated the same as other legal knives in Arizona.

Are Brass Knuckles Illegal in Arizona?

No, brass knuckles are not illegal in Arizona. The state does not prohibit the possession or carrying of brass knuckles, as they are considered legal under Arizona law. However, using brass knuckles in a threatening or unlawful manner, such as during an assault, can result in criminal charges.

Charged With a Weapons Offense in Arizona? Call the Phoenix Criminal Attorneys at Belen Law Firm ASAP

If you aren’t sure whether you have the right to own and/or carry a knife in Arizona, or if you have encountered legal issues involving knives, it is crucial to seek professional legal guidance to avoid potential misconduct charges. The trusted, compassionate criminal defense attorneys of Belen Law Firm are here to help. Our team will work diligently to protect your rights, put you in the best possible position, and provide a competent, compassionate defense tailored to your situation.

Call (602) 715-0908 or leave us a message on our website to schedule a free consultation today.

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