Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Arkansas? (2026)
No — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Arkansas as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: Act 161 of 2025 enacted statewide preemption, meaning local governments cannot enact knife laws more restrictive than state law.
Quick Answer
Arkansas prohibits the possession, sale, or manufacture of switchblades under Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-120. Exceptions exist for law enforcement and military personnel.
What the Law Says
Arkansas law allows for the possession of switchblades. It is illegal to carry a knife with the intent to unlawfully use it against another person.
— Arkansas Code § 5-73-120
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal for civilians; allowed for law enforcement and military. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture switchblades. |
| Penalties | Class A misdemeanor; fines and up to one year imprisonment. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Act 161 of 2025 enacted statewide preemption, meaning local governments cannot enact knife laws more restrictive than state law.
Enforcement Reality
Arkansas law was clarified in 2013 to allow the carry of any knife as long as it is not used for an unlawful purpose. Enforcement is focused on intent, not the type of knife.
A common mistake is to believe that any carry is legal. Carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person is a crime.
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: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Arkansas
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Arkansas?
Since switchblades / automatic knives is illegal in Arkansas, bringing it to the airport compounds your legal exposure. You're now dealing with both state law and federal jurisdiction. Don't do it.
Can You Cross State Lines With Switchblades / Automatic Knives From Arkansas?
This is where people get burned. Arkansas treats switchblades / automatic knives as illegal, but neighboring Missouri treats it as legal. 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/Missouri border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where switchblades / automatic knives is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Arkansas. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Arkansas vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a switchblade is fully legal in 19 states, restricted in 17, and illegal in 14. Arkansas falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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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