Wyoming is known for its relaxed approach to knife ownership and carry laws. The state has few restrictions on the types of knives you can own or how you can carry them, making it one of the more permissive states in the U.S. However, there are important details and exceptions that everyone should be aware of to stay in compliance with the law.
What Knives Are Legal to Own?
Wyoming’s knife laws are liberal, allowing a wide range of knives to be owned without restriction:
All types of knives are legal: This includes pocket knives, hunting knives, Bowie knives, switchblades, automatic-opening knives, balisongs (butterfly knives), dirks, daggers, stilettos, gravity knives, and more.
No blade length restrictions: Wyoming law does not impose any restrictions on blade length for knives, meaning there’s no limit on how long a knife’s blade can be.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
Open Carry
Open carry is legal: You are allowed to openly carry any type of knife in Wyoming, regardless of size or mechanism.
No permit required: There’s no need for a permit or license to carry a knife openly.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry is generally legal: Most adults can carry knives concealed, but there are conditions:
Intent matters: If you carry a concealed knife with the intention of using it unlawfully, like committing a crime, it’s illegal.
Deadly weapon definition: Wyoming defines a “deadly weapon” as anything capable of causing death or serious bodily injury, depending on how it’s used or intended to be used.
Pocket knives: Carrying a pocket knife with a blade less than 6 inches concealed is generally not an issue for law-abiding adults.
Permit requirements: If the knife is classified as a “deadly weapon,” concealed carry is allowed only for individuals 21 or older who are eligible for a weapon permit (e.g., no violent crime or drug convictions).
Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
Although Wyoming has relatively lenient knife laws, there are certain places where carrying knives is prohibited:
Schools and educational institutions: Carrying knives on school property is strictly illegal, regardless of the knife’s size or intended use.
Government buildings: Knives are not allowed in courthouses, post offices, or other state or federal buildings.
Private property: Property owners have the right to prohibit knives on their premises. Always look for posted signs before carrying a knife onto private property.
Correctional and mental health facilities: Carrying knives into jails, prisons, or mental hospitals is prohibited.
Statewide Preemption
Uniform laws statewide: Wyoming has a preemption law, meaning local governments cannot create their own knife laws. The state law applies everywhere in Wyoming, ensuring consistency across the state.
Penalties for Violations
If you violate Wyoming’s knife laws, the penalties can vary:
First offense: Carrying a concealed deadly weapon unlawfully is considered a misdemeanor. This can result in a fine of up to $750 and/or up to 6 months in jail.
Subsequent offenses: Repeat offenders may face felony charges, which carry penalties of up to $2,000 in fines and/or up to 2 years in prison.
Responsible Knife Ownership
Lawful use only: Using a knife to threaten, intimidate, or harm others is illegal and can lead to serious criminal charges.
Transporting knives: Under federal law (the Knife Owners’ Protection Act), you can transport knives between states where they are legal. However, you must comply with storage requirements to ensure the knife is securely transported.
Sources:
1. https://knifeup.com/wyoming-knife-laws/
2. https://thewrangler.com/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-wyoming-a-legal-guide/2025/06/27/
3. https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/wyoming-knife-laws/
