Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Missouri? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Missouri as of 2026.
Law changed in 2012: The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2012. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Switchblades are legal to possess and carry openly or concealed in Missouri. Unlawful use of a switchblade is a Class E felony.
What the Law Says
Missouri law does not prohibit the possession or carry of switchblades. Unlawful use of a weapon, including a switchblade, is a felony.
— Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 571.030
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess switchblades |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell switchblades |
| Penalties | Class E felony for unlawful use of a switchblade |
| Age Restriction | None. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2012. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Missouri repealed its ban on switchblades in 2012. They are now legal to own and carry, openly or concealed. Enforcement is focused on criminal intent.
A common mistake is to be unaware of local ordinances that may be more restrictive than state law, although a 2012 preemption law limits the ability of cities to regulate knives.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Missouri. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Missouri
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Missouri?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in Missouri, 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 Missouri?
This is where people get burned. Missouri treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring Iowa 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 Missouri/Iowa 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 Missouri. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Missouri 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. Missouri 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.
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