Pennsylvania knife laws are relatively permissive following 2022 reforms, allowing most knives for open or concealed carry without blade length limits, provided there’s no criminal intent. Key statutes like 18 Pa.C.S. §907 focus on misuse rather than possession alone. This guide outlines your rights statewide, noting local variations.
Ownership Rules
You can legally own nearly any knife, including switchblades (legalized by Act 119 of 2022, effective January 2023), balisongs, bowies, and assisted-openers. Automatic knives were removed from “offensive weapons” under §908, enabling manufacture, sale, and possession. Exceptions apply to disguised knives (e.g., sword canes) or ballistic knives if they serve no lawful purpose—prove “curio” or tool use if challenged.
Carry Laws
Both open and concealed carry are legal statewide for all knife types without permits or blade limits, as long as intent is lawful (e.g., tool for work, camping). §907 prohibits possession only “with intent to employ it criminally”—a misdemeanor punishable by up to 5 years and $10,000 fine. No statewide preemption means cities like Philadelphia may add rules (e.g., past blade limits now unenforceable per 2023 settlement).
Restricted Knives and Areas
Prohibited “offensive weapons” under §908 are rare post-reform but include items with no common purpose; switchblades and balisongs are explicitly cleared. Carry bans apply to:
- Schools (K-12, public/private) under §913 and §6302.
- Courthouses (§912).
- Posted state property (§7506).
Vehicles allow unrestricted carry; airports lack statewide rules but follow federal/TSA.
Key Exceptions
Law enforcement, military, and hunters/fishers get broad allowances. Self-defense carry is legal if not preemptive intent—pocket knives are fine daily. Always disclose during stops and assert lawful purpose.
Violations risk felony charges if escalated to assault; consult local counsel for municipalities. Stay updated via Knife Rights or statutes, as reforms continue.
SOURCE :
- https://knifeinformer.com/state-knife-laws/pennsylvania/
- https://foac-illea.org/Knife-Rights%E2%80%99-Pennsylvania-Switchblade-Ban-Repeal-Takes-Effect/News-Item/14351
