Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Oregon? (2026)
No — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Oregon as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Oregon law prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblade knives under ORS 166.240. Switchblades with blades longer than 3 inches are illegal to possess, and automatic knives are generally banned except for law enforcement.
What the Law Says
Oregon law does not prohibit the possession of switchblades. It is illegal to carry a switchblade concealed.
— Oregon Revised Statutes § 166.240
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades with blades over 3 inches. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or purchase switchblades. |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor with fines and possible jail time. |
| Age Restriction | None specified, possession is generally prohibited. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes in recent years. The law remains complex and subject to interpretation.
Enforcement Reality
Oregon 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. This is a Class B misdemeanor.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Oregon. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Oregon
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Oregon?
Since switchblades / automatic knives is illegal in Oregon, bringing it to the airport compounds your legal exposure. You're now dealing with both state law and federal jurisdiction. Don't do it.
Can You Cross State Lines With Switchblades / Automatic Knives From Oregon?
This is where people get burned. Oregon treats switchblades / automatic knives as illegal, but neighboring Washington 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 Oregon/Washington 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 illegal in Oregon. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Oregon 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. Oregon falls in the ILLEGAL 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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