Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Illinois? (2026)
No — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Illinois as of 2026.
Law changed in 2017: The law was changed in 2017 to allow for the possession of switchblades with a FOID card. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Illinois prohibits switchblade knives under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(10). Possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblades are illegal except for law enforcement or military use. There are strict penalties for violations.
What the Law Says
Illinois law prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblades. However, a person with a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card can possess a switchblade.
— Illinois Compiled Statutes, 720 ILCS 5/24-1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades except for law enforcement or military. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture switchblades. |
| Penalties | Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines and imprisonment. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The law was changed in 2017 to allow for the possession of switchblades with a FOID card. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Illinois requires a Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card to legally possess a switchblade. Enforcement is strict, and possession without a FOID card is a crime.
A common mistake is to believe that a concealed carry license for a firearm also allows for the concealed carry of a switchblade. This is not the case. A FOID card is required for possession.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Illinois. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Illinois
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Illinois?
Since switchblades / automatic knives is illegal in Illinois, 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 Illinois?
This is where people get burned. Illinois treats switchblades / automatic knives as illegal, but neighboring Wisconsin 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 Illinois/Wisconsin 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 Illinois. 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.
Illinois 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. Illinois 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.
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