Washington State Knife Laws (2025)

November 15, 2025

Washington State Knife Laws (2025)

Washington State Knife Laws (2025)

What You'll Find Here:

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Washington Knife Law: A Tactical Overview

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Knife Laws in Washington: A Quick History

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Legal Definitions of Knives in Washington

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Knife Ownership in Washington

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Knife Carry Laws in Washington

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Location-Based Restrictions

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State Preemption and Local Ordinances

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Penalties and Legal Consequences

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Knife Laws for Specific Groups

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Travelers Passing Through Washington

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Practical Advice for Knife Owners & Professionals

PEOPLE ARE ASKING

Are switchblades legal in Washington?

No. Possession and sale of switchblades remain illegal statewide.

Are assisted-opening knives legal in Washington?

Yes.Knives with a "bias toward closure" that require user effort to open are not considered "spring blade knives" and are legal to own and carry.

Are fixed-blade knives legal?

Yes, fixed blades are legal to own, but concealed carry of dangerous weapons (including certain knives) is prohibited.

Can knives be carried openly?

Yes, open carry of most knives is legal, except in restricted places. You cannot carry a knife in a way that intimidates others or causes public alarm and you must follow local blade-length limits for knives carried in public.

Are there statewide preemption laws?

No. Local governments may impose additional restrictions.

Where are knives prohibited in Washington State?

Knives are prohibited in jails, law-enforcement facilities, courthouses, mental health facilities, airport secure areas, accredited zoos and aquariums, and at permitted demonstrations.

What is the maximum legal blade length for a knife in Washington State?

There is no statewide blade limit, but many cities restrict blades to around 3–3.5 inches (e.g., Seattle, Tacoma), so always check local laws.

Are automatic knives legalized in Washington as of 2025?

No. Despite significant legislative efforts in 2025 to repeal the ban (e.g., SSB 5534), those bills failed to pass into law.

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