Reviewed September 2026
Ohio Knife Laws
In Ohio, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. Since 2021, knives carried as tools are not "deadly weapons" unless used as one; carry is broadly legal. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.
Automatic knives were legalized in 2021.
Butterfly knives are legal.
Since 2021, knives carried as tools are not "deadly weapons" unless used as one; carry is broadly legal.
Ohio has statewide preemption: cities and counties cannot pass stricter knife laws than the state. Knife preemption took effect in September 2022; one of the biggest recent liberalizations.
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: Ohio Rev. Code §§2923.11, 2923.12, 2923.122
Effective April 12, 2021, Ohio amended §2923.12 so a knife is not a deadly weapon for concealed carry purposes unless it is used as a weapon. State v. Cathel (1998) established there is no presumption that a knife is a deadly weapon; prosecutors must prove it. Possessing a deadly weapon in a school safety zone or courthouse remains a fifth-degree felony with up to 12 months confinement and a $2,500 fine.
Ohio Knife Law FAQ
Are switchblades legal in Ohio?
Are butterfly knives legal in Ohio?
Is it legal to carry a knife in Ohio?
What size knife can you legally carry in Ohio?
Traveling Through?
Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, West Virginia.
Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Ohio
Every Louis Martin blade is hand-forged and ships free anywhere in the US, including right here in Ohio. Start with our pocket knives and everyday carry pieces, browse the full collection, and keep our national knife law guide handy when you travel.