Reviewed September 2026

Alabama Knife Laws

In Alabama, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. No state restriction on concealed knife carry; the old bowie-knife statute was repealed effective January 2023. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Legal

Automatic knives are legal to own and carry; remaining restrictions were repealed in 2022.

Butterfly Knives: Legal

Butterfly knives are legal.

Concealed Carry

No state restriction on concealed knife carry; the old bowie-knife statute was repealed effective January 2023.

Local Ordinances

Alabama has no statewide preemption, so cities and counties can add stricter rules. Check local ordinances before carrying. Among the most permissive states since the 2022-2023 reforms.

Not legal advice. Statuses reviewed September 2026 from state statutes and reputable trackers. Laws change; verify the current statute or consult a lawyer before buying or carrying. See the full 50-state comparison.

The Law in Detail

Key statutes: Ala. Code §§13A-11-57, 13A-11-72

Alabama bars selling or transferring bowie knives and knives of "like kind and description" to anyone under 18, and knowingly carrying a deadly weapon on school premises with intent to do bodily harm is a felony. The state has no knife preemption law: its preemption statute, §13A-11-61.3, covers firearms only, so cities set their own rules, and Montgomery enforces a three-inch blade limit.

Alabama Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in Alabama?

Switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in Alabama. Automatic knives are legal to own and carry; remaining restrictions were repealed in 2022. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.

Are butterfly knives legal in Alabama?

Butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in Alabama. Butterfly knives are legal.

Is it legal to carry a knife in Alabama?

Generally yes, within limits: No state restriction on concealed knife carry; the old bowie-knife statute was repealed effective January 2023. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.

What size knife can you legally carry in Alabama?

Alabama has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. Among the most permissive states since the 2022-2023 reforms.

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Alabama

Every Louis Martin blade is hand-forged and ships free anywhere in the US, including right here in Alabama. Start with our pocket knives and everyday carry pieces, browse the full collection, or read our guide to the best knives in Alabama, and keep our national knife law guide handy when you travel.