In Louisiana, owning and carrying knives is generally allowed, but there are some important rules every resident and visitor should know.
Whether you’re a collector, a hunter, or someone who simply carries a pocketknife for daily use, it’s important to understand your knife rights under Louisiana law to avoid legal trouble. This guide explains the key laws in simple terms so that anyone can understand them.
What Knives Are Legal to Own in Louisiana?
Louisiana is one of the more knife-friendly states in the U.S. Most types of knives are legal to own, including:
Pocketknives
Bowie knives
Hunting knives
Daggers and dirks
Throwing knives
Switchblades and automatic knives (legal since 2018)
You don’t need a special permit to own or buy these knives. There are also no limits on blade length for knives you keep at home.
Carrying Knives in Public: What’s Allowed?
You can legally carry most knives in public in Louisiana, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Open carry of knives is generally legal unless you’re in a restricted area.
Concealed carry (carrying a knife hidden in your clothes or bag) has stricter rules.
In Louisiana, it is illegal to intentionally conceal a switchblade or any “dangerous weapon” without a valid reason. The law leaves some room for interpretation, so it’s safest to carry knives openly unless you’re sure it’s allowed.
What Counts as a Dangerous Weapon?
Under Louisiana law, a “dangerous weapon” includes any object that can cause serious injury or death. Some knives automatically fall under this category due to their design or intended use—like:
Switchblades
Stilettos
Butterfly knives
Large combat or survival knives
If you carry one of these concealed, especially in a suspicious situation, you could be charged with carrying a concealed dangerous weapon.
Places Where Knives Are Not Allowed
Even though knife laws are generally relaxed in Louisiana, there are some locations where carrying any kind of knife is illegal or restricted:
Schools and school grounds
Government buildings and courthouses
Airports and airplanes (under federal law)
Private properties where knives are specifically banned
Violating these rules can lead to arrest, fines, or even jail time.
Knife Use and Self-Defense Laws
Louisiana follows the “Stand Your Ground” law, meaning you have the right to defend yourself without backing away first, as long as you’re not the aggressor. You can use a knife for self-defense if:
You are facing a real threat of harm
You didn’t start the fight
The amount of force used was reasonable under the circumstances
However, using a knife in a fight can lead to serious criminal charges if you can’t prove it was necessary. So it’s important to understand both your rights and responsibilities.
Can Minors Carry Knives in Louisiana?
There is no clear state law that completely bans minors from carrying knives. However, schools and many local areas have rules that strictly prohibit students from bringing knives to school, even small pocketknives. Parents and guardians should use caution and teach kids about safe and legal knife use.
Local Knife Laws in Louisiana
While Louisiana state law is mostly clear, local cities and parishes may have their own rules. For example:
Some areas may have blade length limits.
Certain public spaces might ban knives completely.
It’s always a good idea to check local regulations before carrying a knife in a new area, especially in cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge.
Knowing your knife rights in Louisiana helps you stay safe and legal. While the state offers a lot of freedom when it comes to knife ownership and carry, there are still important restrictions—especially around concealed carry, schools, and government buildings.
Understanding the basics can help you enjoy your rights without running into trouble. Always stay updated on local laws and use common sense when carrying any kind of knife.
