Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Louisiana? (2026)
Partially — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal with restrictions in Louisiana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: The ban on concealed carry of switchblades was repealed in 2022. A statewide preemption law was passed in 2024.
Quick Answer
Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:95.6 prohibits switchblade knives with blades longer than 2 inches. Possession, sale, and manufacture of such knives are illegal except for law enforcement.
What the Law Says
Louisiana law does not prohibit the possession or carry of switchblades. The state repealed its ban on concealed carry of switchblades in 2022.
— Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:95.6
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades with blades longer than 2 inches. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell switchblades with blades longer than 2 inches. |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor punishable by fines and imprisonment. |
| Age Restriction | None specified. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on concealed carry of switchblades was repealed in 2022. A statewide preemption law was passed in 2024.
Enforcement Reality
Louisiana repealed its ban on switchblades in 2018 and its ban on concealed carry of switchblades in 2022. The law is now very permissive. Enforcement is focused on criminal intent.
A common mistake is to be unaware of the recent changes in the law. Many people still believe that switchblades are illegal in Louisiana.
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: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Louisiana
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Louisiana?
Since switchblades / automatic knives is restricted in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?
This is where people get burned. Louisiana treats switchblades / automatic knives as restricted, but neighboring Arkansas treats it as illegal. 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/Arkansas 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 legal with restrictions in Louisiana. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Louisiana 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. Louisiana falls in the RESTRICTED 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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