Oregon Weapons & Self-Defense Laws (2026)

Body armor is legal with restrictions to purchase and wear in Oregon for civilians without felony convictions. No significant legislative changes to the controlling statutes, ORS 166.642 and 166.643, have occurred in the 2023-2026 period.

Oregon Revised Statutes § 166.210 prohibits possession, manufacture, or sale of brass knuckles. They are classified as a prohibited weapon.

Butterfly knives are legal to possess in Oregon, but concealed carry is generally prohibited. No significant legislative changes in recent years.

Oregon does not allow permitless concealed carry. A valid concealed handgun license is required under ORS 166.291. No constitutional carry law is in effect.

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

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

Open carry is legal with restrictions in Oregon without a permit in most areas. Oregon is a permissive open carry state — adults 18 and older may openly carry firearms in public. However, cities and counties can restrict open carry of loaded firearms in public buildings. Portland, for example, prohibits loaded firearms in public places without a concealed handgun license (CHL). Oregon does not require a permit for open carry on state land or in unincorporated areas.

Oregon permits possession and use of pepper spray for self-defense. There are no state-imposed restrictions on concentration or container size, and no age restrictions. However, use of pepper spray in a crime may lead to criminal penalties.

Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Oregon. Oregon law does not prohibit possession or sale of suppressors beyond federal law.

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.

Tasers & Stun Guns are legal with restrictions in Oregon. No significant legislative changes since the current laws on the unlawful use of stun guns were enacted.