Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Utah? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Utah as of 2026.
Law changed in 2015: The law was clarified in 2015 to remove any ambiguity about the legality of switchblades. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Utah law restricts the possession and carry of switchblades with blades longer than 3 inches under Utah Code § 76-10-507. Possession is allowed, but carrying concealed switchblades over 3 inches is legal without a permit.
What the Law Says
Utah law does not prohibit the possession or carry of switchblades. It is a misdemeanor to possess any dangerous weapon with criminal intent.
— Utah Code § 76-10-507
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess switchblades. |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell and purchase switchblades. |
| Penalties | Carrying illegal knives can be a class B misdemeanor. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The law was clarified in 2015 to remove any ambiguity about the legality of switchblades. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Utah has very permissive knife laws. Switchblades are legal to own and carry, openly or concealed. Enforcement is focused on criminal intent.
A common mistake is for a convicted felon to possess a switchblade. This is illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Utah. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Utah
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Utah?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in Utah, 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 Utah?
This is where people get burned. Utah treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring New Mexico 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 Utah/New Mexico 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 Utah. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Utah 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. Utah 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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