Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Hawaii? (2026)
No — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Hawaii as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: Act 21, signed in May 2024, legalized the possession and open carry of switchblades and butterfly knives.
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Quick Answer
Hawaii prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblade knives under Hawaii Revised Statutes §134-51. Switchblades are classified as dangerous weapons, and carrying or possessing them is unlawful except for certain law enforcement exceptions.
What the Law Says
Hawaii repealed its ban on switchblades in May 2024. While possession is legal, using a switchblade in the commission of a crime is a Class C Felony.
— Hawaii Revised Statutes §134-51
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Possession of switchblades is prohibited except by law enforcement or authorized persons. |
| Sale & Purchase | Sale and manufacture of switchblades are prohibited. |
| Penalties | Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines and/or imprisonment under HRS §134-51. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession is prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Act 21, signed in May 2024, legalized the possession and open carry of switchblades and butterfly knives.
Enforcement Reality
Until May 2024, switchblades were illegal in Hawaii. While now legal to possess, concealed carry is still prohibited. Enforcement is likely to be strict on the concealed carry ban.
A common mistake is to believe that the recent law change allows for concealed carry of switchblades. It does not. Open carry is legal, but concealed carry is a crime.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Hawaii. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Hawaii. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Hawaii vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a switchblade is fully legal in 18 states, restricted in 17, and illegal in 15. Hawaii falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Hawaii?
What are the penalties for carrying a switchblade in Hawaii?
How strictly does Hawaii enforce its switchblades / automatic knives laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Hawaii?
What is the age restriction for carrying a switchblade in Hawaii?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Other States
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