Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Tennessee? (2026)
Partially — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal with restrictions in Tennessee as of 2026.
Law changed in 2014: The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2014. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Tennessee law restricts switchblades under its knife laws. Switchblades with blades longer than 4 inches are illegal to carry, but possession and sale are generally allowed. The relevant statute is Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1307.
What the Law Says
Tennessee law does not prohibit the possession of switchblades. It is a felony to carry a switchblade with the intent to go armed.
— Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Possession is legal; carrying switchblades with blades over 4 inches is prohibited. |
| Sale & Purchase | Sale is generally legal; no specific restrictions on sale found. |
| Penalties | Carrying illegal knives can result in misdemeanor charges with fines and possible jail time. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2014. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Tennessee repealed its ban on switchblades in 2014. 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 onto school property. This is prohibited.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Tennessee. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Tennessee
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Tennessee?
Since switchblades / automatic knives is restricted in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee?
This is where people get burned. Tennessee treats switchblades / automatic knives as restricted, but neighboring North Carolina treats it as legal. 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 Tennessee/North Carolina 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 with restrictions in Tennessee. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Tennessee 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. Tennessee falls in the RESTRICTED 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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