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Are Butterfly Knives Illegal in Missouri? What You Need to Know
Are butterfly knives illegal in Missouri?
No, butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Missouri, but there are restrictions on where and how you can carry them. Learn more about the laws and regulations to stay compliant in the state.
Butterfly knives, or balisongs, are a type of folding knife known for their unique design and the skill involved in flipping them open. While butterfly knives are often admired by collectors and knife enthusiasts, the legality of owning and carrying them varies by state. So, the big question is: Are butterfly knives illegal in Missouri?
In this article, we’ll explore Missouri’s knife laws, focusing on the legality of butterfly knives, where you can carry them, and the restrictions you should be aware of if you plan to own or carry a butterfly knife in Missouri.
Understanding Missouri’s Knife Laws
Missouri has some of the more relaxed knife laws in the United States. The key law that governs knives in Missouri is Missouri Revised Statutes (Mo. Rev. Stat.) § 571.010, which defines various types of weapons and their legal status. Overall, Missouri allows individuals to own and carry most knives, but there are some specific regulations on how they can be carried.
Are Butterfly Knives Legal in Missouri?
The short answer is yes, butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Missouri. Under Missouri state law, there are no specific prohibitions against owning butterfly knives. In fact, Missouri’s laws regarding knives are relatively lenient, and there are no restrictions that specifically target butterfly knives or balisongs.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
In Missouri, the way you carry a knife—whether openly or concealed—can affect its legality. The state allows the open carry of knives, including butterfly knives, without any permits or special licenses. However, concealed carry is treated differently depending on the type of knife and its blade length.
- For knives with blades under 4 inches: You can carry a butterfly knife concealed without any legal restrictions. Most butterfly knives fall under this category, making it legal to carry them both openly and concealed in most situations.
- For knives with blades over 4 inches: If the blade of your butterfly knife exceeds 4 inches, you may need to be cautious when carrying it concealed. Missouri law requires individuals to have a concealed carry permit if they wish to carry certain types of knives concealed, particularly those with blades longer than 4 inches. However, this generally applies to knives that are classified as “dangerous weapons.”
Exceptions and Restrictions
Although Missouri allows the ownership and carry of most knives, including butterfly knives, there are still some places where carrying any kind of knife is prohibited:
- Schools: Carrying a knife of any kind, including a butterfly knife, is illegal on school grounds, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as college campuses. Violating this rule can lead to severe penalties, including fines and potential jail time.
- Government buildings: Knives, including butterfly knives, are generally prohibited in government buildings such as courthouses, public offices, and other official spaces.
- Airports: Like in most states, carrying a butterfly knife or any weapon past airport security checkpoints is illegal under federal law. If you plan to travel with a butterfly knife, it must be stored in checked luggage.
Self-Defense Considerations in Missouri
Missouri, like many states, allows the use of deadly force in self-defense under certain conditions. This law includes the use of knives, but it’s important to understand when and how deadly force is legally justified. While carrying a butterfly knife for self-defense is legal, the knife must be used in a manner consistent with Missouri’s self-defense laws.
Using or displaying a weapon, including a butterfly knife, in a threatening manner could result in legal consequences if it is not justified under Missouri’s self-defense laws. It is always wise to understand your rights and responsibilities before using any weapon for protection.
Penalties for Violating Missouri’s Knife Laws
If you violate Missouri’s knife laws by carrying a knife in a restricted area or concealing a knife with a blade over 4 inches without a permit, you could face criminal charges. These penalties can range from fines to jail time, depending on the severity of the violation and the circumstances of the offense.
For example, carrying a knife on school grounds can result in severe charges, including a felony, which can lead to a long-term criminal record, fines, and imprisonment.
Final Thoughts: Butterfly Knives in Missouri
So, are butterfly knives illegal in Missouri? No, butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Missouri, provided that you adhere to the general restrictions regarding knife carry, particularly in sensitive areas like schools, government buildings, and airports. Most butterfly knives, with blades under 4 inches, can be carried without the need for a concealed carry permit, both openly and concealed.
Understanding Missouri’s knife laws and staying informed about local regulations will help ensure that you stay on the right side of the law while enjoying your butterfly knife.
Missouri Knife Statute
| Statute | Description |
|---|---|
| Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.010 | Missouri’s weapon possession statute, which allows the open carry of knives, including butterfly knives. Concealed carry of knives with blades over 4 inches may require a concealed carry permit. Certain areas, such as schools and government buildings, are restricted. |
FAQs about Butterfly Knives in Missouri
1. Can I carry a butterfly knife for self-defense in Missouri?
Yes, but you must comply with Missouri’s self-defense laws. It’s important to understand when and how deadly force is justified.
2. Do I need a permit to carry a butterfly knife?
If the blade of your butterfly knife is under 4 inches, no permit is required to carry it openly or concealed. For blades over 4 inches, a concealed carry permit may be required for concealed carry.
3. Are there any places where I can’t carry a butterfly knife?
Yes, carrying a butterfly knife is prohibited in schools, government buildings, and airports.
4. What happens if I’m caught with a butterfly knife in a restricted area?
You could face criminal charges, including fines and potential jail time, depending on the severity of the violation.
Where to Buy Butterfly Knives in Missouri
If you’re looking to purchase a butterfly knife and want to ensure you’re complying with Missouri’s knife laws, check out Wolf Personal Safety for a variety of high-quality butterfly knives. Whether you’re a collector or just interested in owning one for personal use, you’ll find a selection that suits your needs.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Laws and regulations can change, and it is your responsibility to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws regarding the possession and carry of knives, including butterfly knives. We recommend consulting with a legal professional or local law enforcement for the most current and accurate information. Wolf Personal Safety and the author of this article are not liable for any actions taken based on the information provided here.