Reviewed September 2026

Nevada Knife Laws

In Nevada, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. Concealed carry of machetes and certain large blades requires a permit; ordinary knives are fine. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Legal

Legalized in 2015.

Butterfly Knives: Legal

Butterfly knives are legal.

Concealed Carry

Concealed carry of machetes and certain large blades requires a permit; ordinary knives are fine.

Local Ordinances

Nevada has no statewide preemption, so cities and counties can add stricter rules. Check local ordinances before carrying. No statewide preemption: Clark County still enforces a 3-inch concealed-carry ordinance.

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: Nev. Rev. Stat. §§202.265, 202.320, 202.350

Nevada repealed its ban on automatic knives with blades over 2 inches in 2015, though school and campus prohibitions remain. Brandishing under §202.320 is a misdemeanor, while school possession and concealed machete violations are gross misdemeanors carrying up to 1 year and a $2,000 fine. Unincorporated Clark County restricts concealed blades of 3 inches or more without sheriff permission, a stricter standard than state law that does not apply within incorporated Las Vegas.

Nevada Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in Nevada?

Switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in Nevada. Legalized in 2015. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.

Are butterfly knives legal in Nevada?

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

Is it legal to carry a knife in Nevada?

Generally yes, within limits: Concealed carry of machetes and certain large blades requires a permit; ordinary knives are fine. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.

What size knife can you legally carry in Nevada?

Nevada has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. No statewide preemption: Clark County still enforces a 3-inch concealed-carry ordinance.

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon, Utah.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Nevada

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