Reviewed September 2026

Arizona Knife Laws

In Arizona, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. Adults 21+ may carry any knife openly or concealed. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Legal

All knife types are legal to own and carry.

Butterfly Knives: Legal

Butterfly knives are legal.

Concealed Carry

Adults 21+ may carry any knife openly or concealed.

Local Ordinances

Arizona has statewide preemption: cities and counties cannot pass stricter knife laws than the state. One of the most knife-friendly states; the first knife preemption law in the nation (2010).

Not legal advice. Statuses reviewed September 2026 from state statutes and reputable trackers. Laws change; verify the current statute or consult a lawyer before buying or carrying. See the full 50-state comparison.

The Law in Detail

Key statutes: Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§13-3101, 13-3102, 13-3120

Arizona is one of the most permissive knife states: anyone 21 or older may carry any knife openly or concealed, and §13-3120 preempts all local knife ordinances. For those under 21, concealed carry of a non-pocketknife deadly weapon is a Class 3 misdemeanor, rising to a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to six months and $2,500) for failing to accurately answer a peace officer about it. Deadly weapons remain banned at polling places on election day and on school grounds, with no pocketknife exception at the polls.

Arizona Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in Arizona?

Switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in Arizona. All knife types are legal to own and carry. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.

Are butterfly knives legal in Arizona?

Butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in Arizona. Butterfly knives are legal.

Is it legal to carry a knife in Arizona?

Generally yes, within limits: Adults 21+ may carry any knife openly or concealed. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.

What size knife can you legally carry in Arizona?

Arizona has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. One of the most knife-friendly states; the first knife preemption law in the nation (2010).

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Arizona

Every Louis Martin blade is hand-forged and ships free anywhere in the US, including right here in Arizona. Start with our pocket knives and everyday carry pieces, browse the full collection, and keep our national knife law guide handy when you travel.