California knife laws focus primarily on how knives are carried rather than blade length, with key distinctions between fixed and folding blades. Here’s a breakdown of the legal landscape:
Statewide Legal Framework
- Fixed Blades
- Must be carried openly in a sheath suspended from the waist to avoid classification as a concealed “dirk or dagger” (a felony under Penal Code § 21310).
- No statewide blade length restrictions for fixed blades, but local ordinances may apply.
- Folding Knives
- Can be carried openly or concealed when folded, regardless of blade length or locking mechanism.
- If opened/locked, they become “dirks/daggers” and must follow fixed-blade carry rules.
- Switchblades/Automatics
- Legal only if the blade is under 2 inches (statewide).
- Possession of longer automatic blades in public spaces (including vehicles) is prohibited.
Concealment Rules
- Illegal Concealment: Fixed blades, dirks, or daggers hidden under clothing, in bags, or within a vehicle (e.g., under seats, door compartments).
- Legal Concealment: Folding knives (closed) in pockets, clipped to belts, or stored in bags.
Vehicle Transport
- Fixed blades can be transported in cars if not concealed on your person (e.g., stored in a trunk or toolbox).
- Local laws (e.g., Los Angeles, San Francisco) may impose stricter rules.
Prohibited Knives
- Always illegal: Switchblades ≥2 inches, ballistic knives, cane swords, belt-buckle knives, lipstick case knives, undetectable knives, and others disguised as everyday objects.
Local Variations
- Los Angeles: Prohibits concealed fixed blades and restricts switchblades to <2 inches.
- San Francisco/Sacramento: Stricter enforcement of open-carry rules for fixed blades.
- Schools/Gov’t Buildings: Knives (even legal ones) are typically banned.
Practical Advice
- Avoid brandishing knives in public to minimize police interactions.
- Pocket clips for fixed blades may not satisfy open-carry requirements; use a waist sheath.
- When questioned by law enforcement, state you have a knife but avoid elaborating on its purpose.
For nuanced cases (e.g., historical blades, unique designs), consult a legal professional to avoid misinterpretations of “dirk or dagger” definitions. Always verify local ordinances, as county/city laws can override state rules in certain areas.
Sources:
- https://www.thebulldog.law/blog/2024/04/knife-laws-in-california-what-you-can-and-cant-carry
- https://www.shieldon.net/understanding-california-knife-laws-a-simple-guide-to-carrying-straight-and-folding-knives/
- https://kntrialattorneys.com/blog/california-knife-laws-whats-legal-whats-not-in-2025/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/california/
- https://vistacriminallaw.com/knife-laws-california/
