Hawaii’s knife laws have recently undergone significant changes, providing clearer guidelines for pocket knife owners while still enforcing strict regulations for certain types of knives and how they are carried. Whether you are a resident or just visiting, it’s essential to understand these rules to ensure you’re complying with local laws.
Key Points of Hawaii’s Knife Laws
Single-edged pocket knives: Legal to own and carry (both openly and concealed) without any blade length restrictions.
Switchblades, butterfly knives (balisongs), and gravity knives: Legal to own and openly carry, but concealed carry remains prohibited.
Daggers, dirks, and knuckle knives: Illegal to carry (open or concealed) or have in your vehicle, but they are still legal to own.
School grounds and government buildings: Knives are strictly prohibited on these premises.
Intent to use unlawfully: Carrying any knife with the intent to use it as a weapon or in a crime is always illegal.
Pocket Knife Regulations in Hawaii
What’s Legal
Ownership: You can legally own most types of pocket knives, including folding knives and utility knives.
Carry: Single-edged pocket knives can be carried openly or concealed with no restrictions on blade length.
No Permit Required: There is no permit required to legally carry these knives.
What’s Restricted or Prohibited
Concealed Carry Restrictions: While you can own and openly carry switchblades, gravity knives, and butterfly knives, concealed carry of these types of knives remains illegal.
Prohibited Knives: Daggers, dirks, and knuckle knives are prohibited from being carried in public or in vehicles, regardless of whether they are carried openly or concealed.
Intent: It is illegal to carry any knife with the intent to use it unlawfully, especially as a weapon or in the commission of a crime. Violating this can lead to serious legal consequences.
Recent Legislative Changes: HB2342 (May 2024)
The HB2342 bill, passed in May 2024, marked a significant shift in Hawaii’s knife laws. This bill legalized the possession, sale, and open carry of switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives, while maintaining the prohibition on concealed carry of these knives.
The change aims to strike a balance between personal freedom and public safety, reflecting evolving court decisions and growing support for knife rights.
Sources:
1. https://huroninsider.com/understanding-the-legal-landscape-of-pocket-knives-in-hawaii/
2. https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/hawaii-knife-laws/
3. https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/hawaii-legalizes-butterfly-switchblade-gravity-knives/
4. https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-hawaii-understanding-the-aloha-states-regulations/
