Reviewed September 2026

Tennessee Knife Laws

In Tennessee, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. Knives were removed from the weapons-carry statute entirely in 2014; carry is broadly legal. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Legal

Legalized in 2014.

Butterfly Knives: Legal

Butterfly knives are legal.

Concealed Carry

Knives were removed from the weapons-carry statute entirely in 2014; carry is broadly legal.

Local Ordinances

Tennessee has statewide preemption: cities and counties cannot pass stricter knife laws than the state. Preemption since 2013.

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: Tenn. Code §§39-17-1309, 39-17-1307, 39-17-1314

Tennessee repealed its automatic knife restrictions in 2014, and §39-17-1314(f) makes state law preemptive over the transfer, ownership, possession, and transportation of knives. Carrying a weapon on school property under §39-17-1309(b) is a Class E felony, and the fine for a §39-17-1307(d) violation doubles to $6,000 when a switchblade is involved. Cole v. State (1976) established that prosecutors must prove intent to go armed.

Tennessee Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in Tennessee?

Switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in Tennessee. Legalized in 2014. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.

Are butterfly knives legal in Tennessee?

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

Is it legal to carry a knife in Tennessee?

Generally yes, within limits: Knives were removed from the weapons-carry statute entirely in 2014; carry is broadly legal. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.

What size knife can you legally carry in Tennessee?

Tennessee has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. Preemption since 2013.

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Virginia.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Tennessee

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