Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in New York?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is legal with restrictions in New York as of 2026. New York prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblade knives under Penal Law § 265.01(1). Switchblades with blades longer than 4 inches are illegal to possess, and automatic knives are generally banned except for law enforcement or military use.
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is LEGAL WITH RESTRICTIONS in New York
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is legal in New York but with specific restrictions and regulations.
Switchblades / Automatic Knives Laws in New York: Quick Facts
- 1 Legal Status: Switchblades / Automatic Knives is currently legal with restrictions in New York.
- 2 Possession: Illegal to possess switchblades with blades over 4 inches; possession of any switchblade is generally prohibited.
- 3 Sale: Illegal to sell or purchase switchblades within the state.
- 4 Age Restriction: None specified, possession is generally prohibited.
- 5 Penalties: Class A misdemeanor for possession; penalties increase with intent to sell or distribute.
Detailed Legal Breakdown
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades with blades over 4 inches; possession of any switchblade is generally prohibited. |
| Sale | Illegal to sell or purchase switchblades within the state. |
| Age Restriction | None specified, possession is generally prohibited. |
| Penalties | Class A misdemeanor for possession; penalties increase with intent to sell or distribute. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
How Does New York Compare?
Across all 50 states, Switchblades / Automatic Knives is fully legal in 20 states, legal with restrictions in 28 states, and illegal in 2 states. New York is among the 28 states where it is legal with restrictions.
View the full 50-state map for Switchblades / Automatic Knives →Top Switchblades / Automatic Knives Products Available in New York (Where Permitted)
Verified vendors that ship to New York. Always confirm current laws before purchasing.
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This page was researched and written by the editorial team at IsThisLegalInMyState.com. All legal information is sourced directly from official state statutes, regulatory agency publications, and legislative databases. Our team reviews each page for accuracy and updates it when laws change.
Source
Citation: New York Penal Law § 265.01
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PEN/265.01
Last verified: 2026-01-15
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