Are Butterfly Knives Legal in Arkansas? (2026)
Yes — Butterfly Knives are legal in Arkansas as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Arkansas with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. No significant legislative changes in recent years.
- Age restriction: 18+ for purchase
What the Law Says
Arkansas law allows for the possession and carry of butterfly knives. It is illegal to carry any knife with the intent to use it as a weapon against another person.
— Ark. Code § 5-73-120
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | 18+ for purchase |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes in recent years.
Enforcement Reality
Arkansas law does not restrict the open or concealed carry of any type of knife. Enforcement is focused on the user's intent rather than the knife itself.
The most common violation is carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person, which is a serious offense.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Arkansas. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Butterfly Knives in Arkansas
Can You Fly With Butterfly Knives Out of Arkansas?
Butterfly Knives may be legal in Arkansas, but airports are federal territory. TSA screens under federal rules, not state law. If the item is federally restricted, expect problems at the checkpoint. Even if it clears TSA, the laws of your destination state apply the moment you land. Plenty of travelers have learned this the hard way — legal when they packed, criminal when they arrived.
Can You Cross State Lines With Butterfly Knives From Arkansas?
This is where people get burned. Arkansas treats butterfly knives as legal, but neighboring Texas treats it as restricted. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the Arkansas/Texas border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where butterfly knives is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Butterfly Knives are legal in Arkansas. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Arkansas vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a butterfly knife is fully legal in 39 states, restricted in 10, and illegal in 1. Arkansas falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Arkansas Legal Guides
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