Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Montana? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Montana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2019: The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2019. A state preemption law was also passed in 2019, preventing local governments from enacting stricter knife laws.
Quick Answer
Montana law does not specifically restrict switchblade knives. Possession, sale, and carry of automatic knives are legal under state law, with no explicit prohibitions or restrictions.
What the Law Says
Montana does not restrict switchblades / automatic knives. No specific statute prohibits or regulates this activity.
— Montana Code Annotated, Title 45, Chapter 5
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess switchblades. |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell switchblades. |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | None. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2019. A state preemption law was also passed in 2019, preventing local governments from enacting stricter knife laws.
Enforcement Reality
Montana repealed its ban on switchblades in 2019. They are now legal to own and carry, openly or concealed. Enforcement is focused on criminal intent.
A common mistake is to carry a knife with a blade 4 inches or longer into a school building. This is prohibited.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Montana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Montana
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Montana?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in Montana, 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 Montana?
This is where people get burned. Montana treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring South Dakota 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 Montana/South Dakota 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 Montana. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Montana 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. Montana 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 Montana Legal Guides
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