Indiana Laws Regarding Knives and Blades

Whether you’re a hunter, Boy Scout, fisherman, or simply a weapon enthusiast, it is important for you to understand the laws surrounding knife ownership, concealment, and possession here in Indiana. Regardless of our Second Amendment rights, one can still be in violation of these laws, even without knowing it.

Continue reading to review the top Indiana laws regarding knives and blades, and who to call if you were recently charged with the knife offense.

Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Defense 317-636-7514
Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Knife Laws in Indiana

There are various laws that regulate the ownership and possession of knives and blades in Indiana. Everything from how long the blade is allowed to be to where you’re allowed to carry it, and everything in between, knife laws are very serious in our state. If you are caught in violation of any knife laws, you could face certain penalties, such as fines and repossessions, or perhaps even criminal charges if the offense is particularly serious. Some knife violations are actually felony offenses, which can lead to jail time and much more.

Here are the knife facts you need to know in Indiana:

Switch Blades

A switchblade knife is a knife that has a button on the handle, and when you push it, the knife opens up with the spring action. Here in Indiana, switchblade used to be legal, until 2013 when they were allowed to be sold and possessed once again.

Knife Concealment and Length

Although some states have laws regulating how long blades are allowed to be an laws that require concealment when carrying a knife, Indiana does not have any laws like this. You are not legally required to conceal your knife when carrying it in public, nor are you limited to how long you want your blade. Many knife enthusiasts here in Indiana alone machetes, swords, and similar collectible pieces, and it’s perfectly legal.

Concealment Exceptions in Indiana

Although you don’t have to have your knife concealed or partially concealed when clipped to your belt or pants, there are some exceptions to this leniency. You are not allowed to carry or reveal a knife on school property, school buses, nor in airports, courthouses, or any of the places where it states that it’s strictly prohibited. Under Indiana Code 35-47-5-2.5, violating these laws would be a Class B misdemeanor.

Reckless Behavior and Violent Crimes

Here in Indiana, use of an edged weapon of any kind in a way that is violent, aggressive, or threatening is illegal and a felony.

Detachable Blades

Knives with detachable blades also have strict regulations. According to Indiana Code 35-47-5-2, you cannot display, possess, manufacture, or sell knives with detachable blades. The charge for this offense would be a Class B misdemeanor.

Chinese Throwing Stars

Chinese throwing stars are illegal in Indiana. You cannot own, sell, or manufacture Chinese throwing stars in our state, nor any weapon with blades placed at different angles. The penalty is a Class C misdemeanor. Indiana Code 35-47-5-12

Were you convicted of misdemeanor or felony weapons crime? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for superior Indianapolis IN criminal defense that will reduce or dismiss your criminal charges, and avoid jail time. We offer free initial consultations.

You Should Read:

Brief Explanation of Indiana Gun Laws
Can a Cop Be Fired For Inappropriately Using a Non-Lethal Weapon?
Are You Innocent of a Recent Criminal Charge in Indiana?

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514
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