Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in North Dakota? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in North Dakota as of 2026.
Quick Answer
North Dakota does not have any specific laws banning switchblades or automatic knives. Possession and sale are legal, and there are no age restrictions or special regulations for these knives.
What the Law Says
North Dakota law defines switchblades as dangerous weapons. It is legal to open carry a switchblade, but a permit is required for concealed carry.
— North Dakota Century Code Chapter 62.1-02
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess and carry. |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell and purchase. |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes in recent years.
Enforcement Reality
North Dakota has permissive knife laws. Switchblades are legal to own and carry, but there is a 5-inch blade length limit for concealed carry. Enforcement is focused on concealed carry violations.
A common mistake is to carry a switchblade with a blade 5 inches or longer concealed. This is illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across North Dakota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in North Dakota
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of North Dakota?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota?
This is where people get burned. North Dakota treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring Minnesota 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 North Dakota/Minnesota 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 North Dakota. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
North Dakota 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. North Dakota 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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