Knife Laws in Kansas

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Kansas is by far one of the most permissive states regarding knives. While the current laws may sometimes seem difficult to understand, there are no major restrictions to keep in mind. Here is everything you need to know about knife laws in Kansas.

What knives are legal to own in Kansas?

Kansas City

Most knives are legal to own in Kansas. If you want a bali knife, you can buy it. Dirks, stilettos, daggers, or other stabbing knives are legal. Disguised knives are also allowed – cane swords, lipstick knives, etc. Switchblades and automatic knives might be illegal in other states, but not in Kansas. The same rule applies to gravity knives or knives that cannot set off metal detectors. Bowie knives and other large knives are totally allowed as well.

What knives are illegal to own in Kansas?

Ballistic knives are banned in Kansas, like many other states. While not popular in American culture, Chinese throwing stars are also banned in Kansas.

What are the limits on carry?

As long as a knife is legal in Kansas, you can carry it in the open. You can go shopping or walk around with the knife publicly displayed – it is perfectly legal.

Concealed Carry

There are no restrictions regarding concealed carry either. Any legal knife in Kansas can be concealed carry without worrying that you might end up in trouble.

Restrictions on carry in Specific Locations / Circumstances

There are a few general restrictions regarding where you can carry a knife, though – whether you carry it in the open or concealed. Schools are considered weapon-free zones in Kansas. The same rule applies to jails and juvenile correction facilities.

Restrictions on Sale or Transfer

Before 2013, there used to be restrictions regarding automatic knives. But now, if the knife is legal, you can sell, pass, transfer or give it to someone else without any problems at all.

Is there a statewide pre-emption?

There is a statewide pre-emption in Kansas. Hence municipalities are not allowed to set their own knife laws.

Major Cities in Kansas with Knife Ordinances

Since Kansas preempts all local Ordinances on the carrying of knives, effective 7/1/14, you don’t have to worry about knife ordinances.

Exceptions

There are no exceptions regarding banned knives or different categories of people who can carry knives in banned places. Everyone must follow the same rules.

Summary of Knife Laws in Kansas

Knife restrictions are mostly nonexistent in Kansas. You can own most knives out there. You can carry them in the open or concealed without worrying about getting in trouble. Just make sure you stick to legal knives and avoid taking them to banned areas.