What Knife is Legal in the UK?
The UK has some of the strictest knife laws in the world, making it essential for collectors, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday users to understand what knives are legal to carry and own. Whether you're looking for folding knives, hunting knives, bowie knives, or fixed blade knives, knowing the legal restrictions can help you stay compliant with UK knife laws.
Understanding UK Knife Laws
UK knife laws are designed to prevent crime while allowing responsible use of knives for work, hobbies, and outdoor activities. The key points to remember include:
✅ It is legal to carry a folding pocket knife with a blade less than 3 inches in public, as long as it is not used in a threatening manner.
❌ Carrying fixed blade knives, hunting knives, or bowie knives in public without a valid reason is illegal.
❌ Locking knives, even if the blade is under 3 inches, require a valid reason to carry.
✅ Utility knives and work-related blades are permitted if they are used for a legitimate purpose.
What Knives Are Legal in the UK?
1. Folding Pocket Knives (Under 3 Inches)
The most commonly UK legal knives are folding pocket knives with a blade less than 3 inches. These knives are widely used for daily tasks, including opening packages and food preparation.
Legal Example: A small non-locking folding knife with a blade measuring 2.5 inches.
2. Utility Knives
Utility knives, commonly used in workplaces for cutting materials, are legal if they are used strictly for work. However, carrying one outside a work environment without a valid reason can be illegal.
Legal Example: A retractable box cutter or a workman's knife used for professional purposes.
3. Fixed Blade Knives (With a Valid Reason Only)
While fixed blade knives, such as hunting knives and bowie knives, are not illegal to own, carrying them in public without a legitimate reason (such as hunting, fishing, or bushcraft) is prohibited.
Legal Example: A fixed-blade knife carried by a professional chef for work or a hunter with a valid hunting license.
What Knives Are Illegal in the UK?
The UK strictly prohibits the possession and carrying of dangerous knives, including:
❌ Butterfly knives
❌ Automatic (switchblade) knives
❌ Zombie knives
❌ Disguised knives (e.g., hidden in a belt or comb)
❌ Any locking knife carried in public without a valid reason
Where to Buy Legal Knives in the UK?
If you're looking for UK legal knives, choose reputable retailers that comply with UK knife laws. Opt for high-quality folding pocket knives with a blade less than 3 inches or utility knives suitable for everyday tasks.
For those looking for legal knives in the USA, NS Custom Knives offers a fantastic selection of high-quality folding knives, hunting knives, and fixed blade knives.
Final Thoughts
Understanding UK knife laws is crucial for responsible knife ownership. If you're in the UK, stick to folding pocket knives with a blade less than 3 inches, and always have a legitimate reason for carrying any other type of knife. For those in the USA, check out NS Custom Knives for the best legal options.