Montana is widely regarded as one of the most knife-friendly states in the United States, offering residents and visitors significant freedom regarding the ownership and carry of pocket knives and other bladed tools. Here is a clear breakdown of the current legal landscape:
Ownership and Carry
No Statewide Restrictions on Knife Types or Blade Length: There are no state-level prohibitions on the types of knives you can own or carry. This includes pocket knives, automatic knives (switchblades), out-the-front (OTF) knives, and fixed-blade knives of any size.
Open Carry: You may openly carry almost any knife, regardless of blade length, without legal restriction. This means knives can be worn visibly on a belt, clipped to a pocket, or otherwise displayed.
Concealed Carry: Since the passage of House Bill 251 in 2017, Montana law no longer considers knives as “concealed weapons” unless they are firearms. This means you can legally carry any knife concealed, regardless of blade length, throughout the state. Some sources mention that local governments may still have their own rules on concealed carry, but state law preempts most local restrictions (see “Statewide Preemption” below).
Statewide Preemption
Preemption Law: Since April 3, 2019, local governments are prohibited from enacting or enforcing ordinances that restrict the ownership, use, possession, or sale of knives, except on property they own or lease. This ensures uniformity across the state and protects individuals from varying local laws.
Local Restrictions: Local governments may only regulate knife possession on property they own or lease, such as government buildings or parks.
Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
Schools: It is illegal to possess a knife with a blade four inches or longer, a sword, or a straight razor in any building owned or leased by a local school district and used for instruction or student activities. Violations can result in fines up to $500, up to six months in jail, or both.
Federal Buildings, Courthouses, and Airports: Knives are generally prohibited in federal buildings, courthouses, and airports, consistent with national regulations.
Private Property: Private businesses and property owners may set their own rules regarding knives on their premises1.
Age and Other Considerations
Minimum Age: Montana law does not specify a minimum age for knife ownership, but minors are subject to school weapon laws.
Use as a Weapon: While most knives are legal, any knife used unlawfully as a weapon can result in criminal charges under general weapon statutes.
Sources:
1. https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/montana/
2. https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/montana-knife-laws/
3. https://ravencresttactical.com/montana-knife-laws/
4. https://www.reddit.com/r/Montana/comments/zyfnj5/montana_knife_laws/
