Arkansas Weapons & Self-Defense Laws (2026)

Body armor is legal with restrictions to purchase and wear in Arkansas for civilians without felony convictions. The law was amended in 2017 to reclassify the offense from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony, indicating a stricter stance on the issue.

Arkansas law (Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-120) prohibits possession, manufacture, or sale of brass knuckles. They are considered a deadly weapon and illegal for civilians.

Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Arkansas with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. No significant legislative changes in recent years.

Arkansas permits permitless concealed carry for residents and non-residents 18 or older who are legally allowed to possess firearms. This is codified in Arkansas Code § 5-73-120.

Flamethrowers are legal to own and use in Arkansas with no state-level restrictions. No significant legislative changes regarding flamethrowers in recent years.

Nunchucks are legal to own and possess in Arkansas with no specific restrictions. No significant changes in recent years.

Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Arkansas without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. While the law has been on the books for a while, a 2018 directive from the governor clarified the state's position on open carry, solidifying its legality.

Arkansas allows possession of pepper spray for self-defense but limits the container size to 2 ounces or less. Persons must be at least 18 years old to purchase or possess pepper spray. Carrying pepper spray in certain government buildings is prohibited.

Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Arkansas. Arkansas state law does not prohibit suppressors or impose additional restrictions.

Arkansas prohibits the possession, sale, or manufacture of switchblades under Ark. Code Ann. § 5-73-120. Exceptions exist for law enforcement and military personnel.

Tasers & Stun Guns are legal with restrictions in Arkansas. No significant legislative changes since the law was updated in 2021 to remove the duty to retreat before using deadly force in public.