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Montana does not leave room for misinterpretation with its knife laws. The state has knife-friendly rules that anyone can understand. While there are a few limitations here and there, Montana is generally one of the best states to live in if you love knives. Here is everything to know about knife laws in Montana.
What knives are legal to own in Montana?
Montana has legalized all types of knives out there. Knives banned or illegal in other states are perfectly acceptable in Montana. Controversial knives, like bowie knives, Chinese throwing stars, automatic or ballistic knives that are prohibited in many states are legal to own in Montana.
What knives are illegal to own in Montana?
There are no knives that are considered illegal to own in Montana.
What are the limits on carry?
There are no limits on carry. No knives are banned in Montana, so you can publicly display – or carry in the open – any knife you want. Of course, using it for unlawful purposes will get you in trouble, but carrying it is perfectly legal.
Concealed Carry
Knife laws in Montana are so relaxed that concealment is not an issue at all, regardless of the knife type. There were, indeed, a few restrictions in place that primarily targeted blade sizes, but effective Oct. 1, 2017, knife concealed no longer considered a deadly weapon per MT Statue as per HB251 (2017)
Restrictions on Carry in Specific Locations / Circumstances
Schools represent the main categories of places where knives have some restrictions. You cannot bring a knife whose blade is longer than four inches in a school. On the same note, straight razors and swords are also prohibited. This applies to school transportation and activities organized by schools as well.
Restrictions on Sale or Transfer
Since no knives are illegal in Montana, the sale or transfer of knives is perfectly legal as well, regardless of the type of knife you deal with.
Is there a statewide preemption?
Montana has a statewide preemption introduced in 2019. Practically, local governments can bring regulations or ordinances to restrict knife possession on places owned or leased by the government. However, they cannot set restrictions on the use elsewhere or ownership.
Major Cities in Montana with Knife Ordinances
Since there is a statewide preemption, cities cannot have knife ordinances.
Exceptions
Exceptions apply to those who conceal weapons during hunting or camping trips, similar recreational activities, or training. Those with permits may also conceal more types of knives, while other exceptions apply to a few classes of people – mostly government employees.
Summary of Knife Laws in Montana
Montana is a knife-friendly state. You can own any knife you want with any blade size, and there are no limitations regarding carrying it – whether in the open or concealed.
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.
