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Knife Laws in Connecticut are very strict, especially in terms of blade size. The state of Connecticut has narrowed its laws to exclude much of the traditional definition of an illegal knife. Some rules are quite specific and leave no room for misinterpretation, while others may need further explanations. Nevertheless, here is everything you need to know about knife laws in Connecticut.
What knives are legal to own in Connecticut?
You are free to own balisong knives, automatic knives, switchblades, and even gravity knives. Dirks, daggers, push knives, and stilettos are also legal to own and purchase. You can also own disguised knives, such as lipstick or boot knives. Finally, while illegal in some states, Connecticut’s bowie knives and other large alternatives are also legal. Simply put, any knife is legal to own in this state, but there are a few restrictions regarding what you can carry and the maximum blade length.
What knives are illegal to own in Connecticut?
In terms of owning knives, there are no illegal knives out there. You can purchase and own any knife you are interested in, without any restrictions at all.
What are the limits on carry?
You cannot carry automatic knives/switchblades with blades exceeding 1.5 inches. Stilettos cannot be carried at all, regardless of the size of the blade. Other than that, blades longer than four inches are illegal too.
Concealed Carry
Carrying concealed knives is not illegal. However, you must ensure the knife is actually within the legal requirements for carry.
Restrictions on Carry in Specific Locations / Circumstances
There is a serious issue with weapons in schools, so the authorities are trying to prevent potential tragedies. With these thoughts in mind, you cannot carry knives in schools. There are also restrictions regarding school-organized activities, even if they do not take place within the actual school grounds.
Restrictions on Sale or Transfer
There are no restrictions on sale or transfer. Since all knives are legal, you can sell knives regardless of the type or blade size.
Is there a statewide pre-emption?
There is no such thing as a statewide pre-emption in Connecticut.
Major Cities in Connecticut with Knife Ordinances
No major cities in Connecticut have any knife ordinances. Laws are generally clear, so there is no need for specific knife ordinances. But a few smaller cities have their own laws and are given below.
| City, State | Law Title/ Chapter/ Section | Concealed Carry Legal | Max Size Restriction | Short description from the law |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheshire, CT | 20-11. | Not clear | No Knives in Parks or Recreation Facilities | |
| Coventry, CT | Sec. 70-77 | Yes | 4" | No person shall possess a knife with a blade more than four inches in length within a park |
| Bristol, CT | 16-2. | Yes | 4" | within the public parks of the city or any knife the edged portion of the blade of which is four inches or over in length |
| New London, CT | 18-110. | Yes | 3" | "Dangerous weapon" shall be defined but not limited to knives of any kind or type having a blade in excess of 3" in length, |
Exceptions
Exceptions apply to law enforcement agencies. Exceptions are also applied during parades or situations when the knife is taken to a repair center or an assembly point. Knives can be carried to be displayed at merchandise shows, as long as there is an official confirmation. People participating in historical acts or hunting and fishing trips may also carry knives, as long as they can prove the weapon’s purpose and possess a valid license.
Summary of Knife Laws in Connecticut
The knife laws in Connecticut are quite clear, yet there could be a bit of confusion regarding carry and sizes. Generally speaking, there are two critical dimensions you have to remember. First, you cannot carry a knife with a blade over four inches in length at all. The critical size is just 1.5 inches in length for the blade when it comes to automatic knives and switchblades.
Hi, I am Jay. I am the creator of Knife Guides, your one-stop site for everything related to knives. I am a computer engineer by profession, knife aficionado by passion. Here I work with a group of people who’ve always had a passion for knives and blades. Over the years we’ve kind of become experts and decided to share our knowledge and ideas. I am also an avid hiker and enjoy offshore gamefishing.
