Butterfly Knife Laws by State: Where You Can Legally Carry a Balisong

Butterfly knives — also known as balisongs — occupy a unique and often confusing place in US knife law. Unlike standard folding knives, their two-handled design and pivoting blade have drawn specific restrictions in many states. This guide breaks down butterfly knife legality across all 50 states so you know where you can legally own, carry, and purchase a balisong.

What Makes a Butterfly Knife Legally Distinct?

From a legal standpoint, butterfly knives are often classified separately from both folding knives and fixed blades. Many states define them by their design: a blade that conceals within a split handle that rotates open. Some states ban them outright as "gravity knives" or "switchblade analogues," while others treat them as standard pocket knives.

Key legal considerations include:

• Ownership: Can you buy and possess one?
• Open carry: Can you carry it visible on your belt?
• Concealed carry: Can you keep it in your pocket?
• Blade length limits: Are there size restrictions?

States Where Butterfly Knives Are Restricted

The following states have specific restrictions on butterfly knives:

State	Status	Notes
California	Restricted	Legal to own but gravity knife ban can apply; blade must not be concealable in certain interpretations. Carry restrictions vary by city.
Hawaii	Prohibited	Butterfly knives classified as illegal switchblades.
Illinois	Restricted	Legal to own but subject to local municipal bans, especially Chicago.
Massachusetts	Restricted	Gravity knife restrictions may apply to balisongs.
Michigan	Prohibited	Carrying a butterfly knife is often considered illegal concealed carry.
New York	Restricted	Gravity knife classification historically applied; 2019 reforms relaxed some restrictions but uncertainty remains.
Texas	Legal	Legal to carry since 2017 knife law reform (switchblade ban repealed).
Washington	Restricted	Some cities have local ordinances; state law is ambiguous.

States Where Butterfly Knives Are Generally Legal

Most states allow butterfly knife ownership and carry with reasonable restrictions. States including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia treat balisongs as standard folding knives. Always check local municipal ordinances, which can be stricter than state law.

Key factors that determine legality:

• Blade length: Most common limit is 3-4 inches for concealed carry
• Location restrictions: Schools, government buildings, airports, and bars often prohibit any knives
• Intent: Carrying with self-defense intent may face additional scrutiny

Balisong Trainer Knives and the Law

Unsharpened balisong trainers — which have blunted or unedged blades — are generally legal even in states where live balisongs are restricted. However, trainers that closely resemble real knives may still face scrutiny in certain jurisdictions. If you're practicing in a restricted state, a brightly colored trainer model is your safest option.

How to Find Your State's Current Laws

Knife laws change. The American Knife & Tool Institute (AKTI) maintains resources on state-level knife legislation, and state legislature websites provide the most current statutes. Before carrying any butterfly knife across state lines, verify the laws at both origin and destination.

Final Thoughts on Butterfly Knife Legality

While butterfly knives are legal in a majority of US states, the patchwork of local restrictions means due diligence is essential. The trend in recent years has been toward fewer restrictions — Texas's 2017 reform and New York's 2019 gravity knife law changes reflect a broader movement. Still, Hawaii and several other states maintain active prohibitions. When in doubt, check with a local legal resource or stick with a standard folding knife for worry-free carry. For verified legal folding knife options, browse the Artisan Cutlery folding knife collection.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently; always verify current statutes in your jurisdiction.

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