Tennessee Knife Laws (2026)

April 06, 2026

Tennessee Knife Laws (2026)

Tennessee Knife Laws (2026)

What You'll Find Here:

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What Tennessee Knife Laws Actually Allow?

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How Did Tennessee Knife Laws Change Over Time?

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How Does Tennessee Law Define Knife Types?

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What Knives Are Legal to Own in Tennessee?

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What Are Tennessee's Knife Carry Laws?

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Where Are Tennessee Knife Carry Restrictions in Effect?

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Does Tennessee Preempt Local Knife Ordinances?

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What Are the Penalties for Tennessee Knife Law Violations?

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How Do Tennessee Knife Laws Apply to Specific Groups?

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What Should Travelers Know About Tennessee Knife Laws?

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What Should Tennessee Knife Owners and Professionals Do to Stay Legal?

PEOPLE ARE ASKING

What types of knives are legal to own in Tennessee?

You can legally own virtually any type of knife in Tennessee—including automatic knives, folders, fixed blades, Bowie knives, daggers, stilettos, penknives, disguise knives, and even butterfly (balisong) knives.

Are there any prohibited knives in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee has no category of knives that are outright prohibited for possession. The state removed its switchblade ban in July 2014, making all types of knives legal to own.

What's the difference between open and concealed carry in Tennessee?

Legally speaking, Tennessee law is relaxed regarding carry, yet there's a grey area. The legality of open vs. concealed carry often depends on intent rather than the method of carry—i.e., whether you're carrying to commit a crime, in which case it becomes illegal.

Are there places where carrying a knife is forbidden?

Yes—carrying any weapon, including knives, with intent to go armed is illegal in schools (buildings, grounds, buses, athletic fields) and is classified as a Class E felony.

Does Tennessee preempt local knife regulations?

Yes. Tennessee has statewide preemption of knife laws, meaning local jurisdictions cannot create stricter regulations on knife possession, ownership, or carry—making the laws uniform across the entire state.

Is there a blade length limit in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee has no blade length restrictions for knife ownership or carry. The previous 4-inch limit was removed in 2014.

Do you need a permit to carry a knife in Tennessee?

No. Tennessee does not require any permit, registration, or license to carry a knife, whether open or concealed.

What makes carrying a knife illegal in Tennessee?

Intent. Carrying a knife becomes illegal if there is intent to use it as a weapon in a crime, which can elevate the offense to a felony.