Is Butterfly Knife Legal in Tennessee? (2026)

Key facts

Status

Legal

Permit required

No

Jurisdiction

Tennessee

Last reviewed

2026-04-09

Butterfly Knife laws in Tennessee

In Tennessee, butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are generally legal to possess, sell, and carry. There is no specific state statute that explicitly prohibits the ownership or open carry of butterfly knives within Tennessee. However, like other edged weapons, their carrying may be subject to broader regulations concerning knives and concealed weapons. While state law permits their possession, individuals should be aware that certain localities or municipalities may have their own ordinances that impose restrictions on the carry of such items, particularly in public places. Furthermore, age restrictions are typically in place for the purchase of knives, mirroring those for other age-restricted goods. Violations related to the unlawful carrying or use of a butterfly knife, if they arise under broader state statutes governing prohibited weapons or concealed carry without a permit, could result in penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony offenses, depending on the specific circumstances of the violation and prior offenses. Penalties can include fines, probation, and potential jail time. For instance, Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307 addresses the unlawful possession of a weapon by an individual who is prohibited from possessing firearms, and similar principles could extend to other weapon classifications if deemed applicable by law enforcement or the courts. It is crucial to understand that statutes governing "knives" in general, or specific types of knives such as switchblades, could potentially be applied to butterfly knives if they are deemed to meet the criteria for prohibited weapons under specific circumstances, such as being carried in a manner that suggests unlawful intent. While Tennessee state law does not specifically ban butterfly knives, it is essential to consider the nuances of carry regulations. Open carry of a butterfly knife is generally permissible under state law, provided it is not brandished in a threatening manner. However, concealed carry of a butterfly knife may be subject to Tennessee's handgun carry permit laws, or specific statutes that address the concealed carry of knives. Travelers should be particularly mindful of regulations at the federal level, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits butterfly knives in carry-on baggage at airports. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to research local municipal ordinances, as some cities may have stricter regulations regarding the possession and carry of knives than the state as a whole.

Frequently asked questions

Is butterfly knife legal in Tennessee for travelers?

For travelers visiting Tennessee, butterfly knife is currently legal. In Tennessee, butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, are generally legal to possess, sell, and carry. There is no specific state statute that explicitly prohibits the ownership or open carry of butterfly knives within Tennessee. However, like other edged weapons, their carrying may be subject to broader regulations concerning knives and concealed weapons. While state law permits their possession, individuals should be aware that certain localities or municipalities may have their own ordinances that impose restrictions on the carry of such items, particularly in public places. Furthermore, age restrictions are typically in place for the purchase of knives, mirroring those for other age-restricted goods. Violations related to the unlawful carrying or use of a butterfly knife, if they arise under broader state statutes governing prohibited weapons or concealed carry without a permit, could result in penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony offenses, depending on the specific circumstances of the violation and prior offenses. Penalties can include fines, probation, and potential jail time. For instance, Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-1307 addresses the unlawful possession of a weapon by an individual who is prohibited from possessing firearms, and similar principles could extend to other weapon classifications if deemed applicable by law enforcement or the courts. It is crucial to understand that statutes governing "knives" in general, or specific types of knives such as switchblades, could potentially be applied to butterfly knives if they are deemed to meet the criteria for prohibited weapons under specific circumstances, such as being carried in a manner that suggests unlawful intent. While Tennessee state law does not specifically ban butterfly knives, it is essential to consider the nuances of carry regulations. Open carry of a butterfly knife is generally permissible under state law, provided it is not brandished in a threatening manner. However, concealed carry of a butterfly knife may be subject to Tennessee's handgun carry permit laws, or specific statutes that address the concealed carry of knives. Travelers should be particularly mindful of regulations at the federal level, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits butterfly knives in carry-on baggage at airports. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to research local municipal ordinances, as some cities may have stricter regulations regarding the possession and carry of knives than the state as a whole.

Do I need a permit for butterfly knife in Tennessee?

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

Can I transport butterfly knife through Tennessee?

Transport laws for butterfly knife in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

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