Is Butterfly Knife Legal in Pennsylvania? (2026)

Key facts

Status

Legal

Permit required

No

Jurisdiction

Pennsylvania

Last reviewed

2026-02-15

Butterfly Knife laws in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are generally legal to possess, sell, and openly carry. There is no specific state statute that explicitly prohibits or criminalizes the ownership or open carry of butterfly knives. However, Pennsylvania law does address the carrying of certain weapons, and it is important to note that a butterfly knife could be construed as a "weapon" under broader definitions if used in a threatening manner. The state's restrictions on carrying concealed weapons, governed by 18 Pa. C.S. § 6106, apply to any "prohibited offensive weapon," which *could* encompass a butterfly knife depending on its design and how it is carried. While possession and open carry are generally permissible, the "transport status" being listed as restricted suggests that specific regulations may apply to how these items are transported, particularly in vehicles or when traveling. For instance, while not explicitly criminalized by state statute for possession, local ordinances in various Pennsylvania municipalities might impose restrictions on the carrying or possession of such knives within their jurisdictions. Individuals are strongly advised to research specific city and borough ordinances, as these can vary significantly, and violations could result in fines or other local penalties. Practical considerations for residents and travelers in Pennsylvania include the potential for butterfly knives to be treated similarly to switchblades under certain interpretations or local laws, despite state-level permissiveness. Open carry is generally less restricted than concealed carry. For individuals traveling in or out of Pennsylvania, it is crucial to note that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits butterfly knives in carry-on luggage on flights. While state law may permit ownership and open carry, federal regulations and local ordinances represent significant potential restrictions. Age requirements for the purchase of knives, as with many weapons, may also apply.

Frequently asked questions

Is butterfly knife legal in Pennsylvania for travelers?

For travelers visiting Pennsylvania, butterfly knife is currently legal. In Pennsylvania, butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are generally legal to possess, sell, and openly carry. There is no specific state statute that explicitly prohibits or criminalizes the ownership or open carry of butterfly knives. However, Pennsylvania law does address the carrying of certain weapons, and it is important to note that a butterfly knife could be construed as a "weapon" under broader definitions if used in a threatening manner. The state's restrictions on carrying concealed weapons, governed by 18 Pa. C.S. § 6106, apply to any "prohibited offensive weapon," which *could* encompass a butterfly knife depending on its design and how it is carried. While possession and open carry are generally permissible, the "transport status" being listed as restricted suggests that specific regulations may apply to how these items are transported, particularly in vehicles or when traveling. For instance, while not explicitly criminalized by state statute for possession, local ordinances in various Pennsylvania municipalities might impose restrictions on the carrying or possession of such knives within their jurisdictions. Individuals are strongly advised to research specific city and borough ordinances, as these can vary significantly, and violations could result in fines or other local penalties. Practical considerations for residents and travelers in Pennsylvania include the potential for butterfly knives to be treated similarly to switchblades under certain interpretations or local laws, despite state-level permissiveness. Open carry is generally less restricted than concealed carry. For individuals traveling in or out of Pennsylvania, it is crucial to note that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits butterfly knives in carry-on luggage on flights. While state law may permit ownership and open carry, federal regulations and local ordinances represent significant potential restrictions. Age requirements for the purchase of knives, as with many weapons, may also apply.

Do I need a permit for butterfly knife in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania does not specifically require a permit for butterfly knife, though general regulations apply.

Can I transport butterfly knife through Pennsylvania?

Transport laws for butterfly knife in Pennsylvania depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.

What are the penalties for butterfly knife violations in Pennsylvania?

Penalties for butterfly knife violations in Pennsylvania vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.