Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Louisiana? (2026)
Partially — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal with restrictions in Louisiana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2022: The ban on concealed carry of switchblades was repealed in 2022. A statewide preemption law was passed in 2024.
Ad Space
Quick Answer
Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:95.6 prohibits switchblade knives with blades longer than 2 inches. Possession, sale, and manufacture of such knives are illegal except for law enforcement.
What the Law Says
Louisiana law does not prohibit the possession or carry of switchblades. The state repealed its ban on concealed carry of switchblades in 2022.
— Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:95.6
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades with blades longer than 2 inches. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell switchblades with blades longer than 2 inches. |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor punishable by fines and imprisonment. |
| Age Restriction | None specified. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on concealed carry of switchblades was repealed in 2022. A statewide preemption law was passed in 2024.
Enforcement Reality
Louisiana repealed its ban on switchblades in 2018 and its ban on concealed carry of switchblades in 2022. The law is now very permissive. Enforcement is focused on criminal intent.
A common mistake is to be unaware of the recent changes in the law. Many people still believe that switchblades are illegal in Louisiana.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Louisiana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal with restrictions in Louisiana. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Louisiana 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. Louisiana falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Switchblades / Automatic Knives:
Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
Ad Space
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Louisiana?
What are the restrictions on carrying a switchblade in Louisiana?
What mistakes do people make with carrying a switchblade in Louisiana?
What is the age restriction for carrying a switchblade in Louisiana?
Does the law on carrying a switchblade change at the Louisiana border?
Interactive Tools
See your overall risk score for Louisiana based on all your activities.
Get Risk Score →See how Switchblades / Automatic Knives laws change if you relocate from Louisiana.
Relocation Analyzer →Check if Switchblades / Automatic Knives laws change at state borders on your route.
Plan Your Trip →Get Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal Updates
Get notified when switchblades / automatic knives laws change in any state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
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.
Comprehensive Louisiana Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Louisiana — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
More Louisiana Legality Guides
Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Other States
Ad Space