Are Butterfly Knives Legal in North Carolina? (2026)
Yes — Butterfly Knives are legal in North Carolina as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in North Carolina with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. No significant legislative changes in recent years.
- Age restriction: 18+ for purchase
What the Law Says
North Carolina law prohibits the concealed carry of a butterfly knife. Open carry is permitted.
— N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-269
| 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
Butterfly knives are legal to own and open carry in North Carolina. However, concealed carry is illegal and this is strictly enforced.
The most common mistake is carrying a butterfly knife concealed, which is a criminal offense.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across North Carolina. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Butterfly Knives in North Carolina
Can You Fly With Butterfly Knives Out of North Carolina?
Butterfly Knives may be legal in North Carolina, 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.
Bottom Line
Butterfly Knives are legal in North Carolina. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
North Carolina 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. North Carolina 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 North Carolina Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in North Carolina — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.