Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Mississippi as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Mississippi law does not specifically prohibit the possession, sale, or carry of switchblade or automatic knives. There are no state statutes restricting switchblades, making them generally legal to own and carry.
What the Law Says
Mississippi law prohibits convicted felons from possessing switchblades. It is also illegal to carry a switchblade on school property.
— Mississippi Code Title 97 - Weapons
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess switchblades. |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell switchblades. |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | None. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes in recent years. The law remains complex and subject to interpretation.
Enforcement Reality
Mississippi law is complex. While it is legal to own a switchblade, it is illegal to carry one concealed. Open carry is legal. Enforcement is focused on concealed carry violations.
A common mistake is to carry a switchblade concealed. A permit is required to carry a concealed deadly weapon, which includes a switchblade.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Mississippi. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Mississippi
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Mississippi?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in Mississippi, 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 Switchblades / Automatic Knives From Mississippi?
This is where people get burned. Mississippi treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring Tennessee 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 Mississippi/Tennessee 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 in Mississippi. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Mississippi 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. Mississippi falls in the LEGAL 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 Mississippi Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Mississippi — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.