Tennessee’s knife laws, like those in many states, can be complex and are often subject to change. Whether you are a collector, a hunter, a person who carries a knife for self-defense, or simply a knife enthusiast, it is essential to understand your rights and responsibilities under state law. In this article, we break down Tennessee’s knife laws, what types of knives are legal to own and carry, and what restrictions may apply.
What is Considered a Knife in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a “knife” is generally defined as any cutting instrument consisting of a blade, such as pocket knives, hunting knives, and folding knives. The law may also include larger knives, such as daggers, switchblades, and automatic-opening knives. Understanding how these knives are categorized is crucial for determining whether carrying or owning a specific type is legal under Tennessee law.
General Knife Ownership
Tennessee has relatively permissive laws when it comes to owning knives. In general, most types of knives are legal to possess, including switchblades, daggers, and other potentially dangerous knives. As long as the knife is not carried in a prohibited area or used in an illegal manner, ownership is not restricted for most knives.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed Carry
Tennessee law distinguishes between carrying knives openly and carrying them concealed, and the rules can vary depending on the type of knife and location.
- Open Carry: Open carry refers to carrying a knife in plain view, where it is not concealed under clothing. In Tennessee, it is generally legal to openly carry most types of knives. This includes folding knives, hunting knives, and larger fixed-blade knives. However, it’s important to note that openly carrying certain types of knives in sensitive locations—like schools or government buildings—can be prohibited.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry, where the knife is hidden from view, is a bit more nuanced under Tennessee law. While carrying a concealed knife in public is not always prohibited, certain restrictions apply. In general, it is illegal to carry a concealed knife that is “unlawful to possess” or one that is considered a weapon with the intent to use it for criminal purposes. For knives such as switchblades or automatic-opening knives, the rules are stricter, and carrying them concealed may be illegal in some contexts without a valid permit.
Specific Restrictions and Prohibited Areas
There are certain places where carrying knives is strictly prohibited in Tennessee, regardless of whether they are concealed or openly carried. These include:
- Schools: Carrying knives on school property, including primary, secondary, and higher education institutions, is generally prohibited. This is true even if the knife is carried in a car or on private property within school zones.
- Government Buildings: Like schools, carrying a knife into government buildings, courthouses, or any other government property may be prohibited by law. Signs or local ordinances may specifically indicate areas where weapons, including knives, are banned.
- Public Events: Certain public events, like protests, sporting events, or concerts, may have specific rules about carrying knives. It is important to check event-specific regulations before carrying a knife in such settings.
Restrictions on Types of Knives
While Tennessee is relatively lenient when it comes to knife ownership and carrying, there are some specific restrictions on certain types of knives:
- Switchblades and Automatic Knives: Tennessee has laws regarding the possession and use of switchblades and automatic-opening knives. While these knives are generally legal to own and carry in Tennessee, there are restrictions on carrying them in public places. In many cases, they can only be carried openly and may not be concealed unless the person has a valid concealed carry permit.
- Dirks, Daggers, and Stilettos: Similar to switchblades, knives classified as “dirks,” “daggers,” or “stilettos” are legal to own in Tennessee, but their concealed carry may be subject to stricter regulations. These knives are often considered “fighting knives,” and carrying them concealed can sometimes lead to charges if not done under the right circumstances or with the proper permits.
Using a Knife for Self-Defense
Using a knife in self-defense is legal in Tennessee as long as the use of force is justified. The law allows individuals to defend themselves from threats of harm, but the level of force used must be reasonable and proportional to the threat posed. If you are using a knife in self-defense, it is critical to be prepared to justify the action to law enforcement or a court if necessary.
Tennessee’s laws surrounding the use of knives in self-defense align with the state’s general self-defense laws, meaning that using a knife in situations where lethal force is warranted (such as when facing an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm) is acceptable. However, using a knife in a manner deemed excessive or inappropriate could lead to criminal charges.
Knife Laws and Minors
Under Tennessee law, minors (those under 18) are restricted from carrying certain knives, particularly those considered “dangerous weapons” like switchblades or concealed knives. However, minors may still legally possess knives for recreational purposes such as hunting, fishing, or camping, as long as they do so in a safe and lawful manner. Parents or guardians are encouraged to supervise their children and ensure they understand the laws regarding knives.
Knife Permits in Tennessee
Currently, Tennessee does not require a permit to own or openly carry most types of knives. However, individuals who want to carry a concealed knife must comply with local laws and restrictions. For those looking to carry certain knives, such as switchblades or automatic-opening knives, it is essential to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations surrounding concealed carry, as these can vary from city to city or county to county.
In Tennessee, knives are generally legal to own and carry, but there are restrictions based on the type of knife, where it’s carried, and whether it’s concealed. It is crucial to understand the various laws governing knives to ensure that you remain compliant with both local and state regulations.
While ownership and open carry are relatively unrestricted, concealed carry and use in sensitive locations may require more caution. Always stay informed about updates to state and local laws to avoid any legal issues when carrying knives.