Are Butterfly Knives Legal in Louisiana? (2026)
Yes — Butterfly Knives are legal in Louisiana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: In 2022, the law was clarified to explicitly allow the concealed carry of automatic knives, which has been interpreted to include butterfly knives.
Quick Answer
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Louisiana with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. In 2022, the law was clarified to explicitly allow the concealed carry of automatic knives, which has been interpreted to include butterfly knives.
- Age restriction: 18+ for purchase
What the Law Says
Louisiana law does not prohibit the ownership or carry of butterfly knives.
— La. R.S. 14:95
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | 18+ for purchase |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In 2022, the law was clarified to explicitly allow the concealed carry of automatic knives, which has been interpreted to include butterfly knives.
Enforcement Reality
Louisiana law does not prohibit the ownership or carry of butterfly knives. Enforcement is focused on intent.
A common mistake is believing that a concealed carry permit is required for a butterfly knife. It is not.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Louisiana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Butterfly Knives in Louisiana
Can You Fly With Butterfly Knives Out of Louisiana?
Butterfly Knives may be legal in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?
This is where people get burned. Louisiana 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 Louisiana/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 Louisiana. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Louisiana 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. Louisiana 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.
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