Are Butterfly Knives Illegal

The Legality of Butterfly Knives in the United States

Butterfly knives, also known as balisongs, have developed quite the reputation over the years. With their flashy openings and closings, butterfly knives seem like the ultimate movie-style weapon. But are they legal to own and carry in the United States? Well, it’s complicated.

What is a Butterfly Knife?

A butterfly knife, or balisong, is a folding pocket knife with two handles that rotate around the tang. The handles swing together to conceal the blade within grooves in the handles. Butterfly knives are known for their flashy openings, where the handles swing apart and the blade rotates around to lock in place.
Butterfly knives originated in the Philippines in the early 1800s. They were used as self-defense weapons by Filipino boat workers. The butterfly design allowed the workers to rapidly deploy the blade with one hand.
These days, butterfly knives are popular for recreational flipping tricks thanks to their unique openings. Of course, the balisong design also allows for rapid one-handed deployment if needed for self-defense.

Federal Butterfly Knife Laws

Unlike other weapons like firearms, there are no federal laws restricting butterfly knives specifically. This means balisongs are legal to purchase and own under federal law.
However, just because butterfly knives are federally legal does not mean they are legal everywhere in the U.S. State and local laws may still prohibit ownership of balisongs.

Switchblades vs. Butterfly Knives

While butterfly knives themselves are not restricted by federal law, they are often lumped in with switchblade knives. The federal Switchblade Act of 1958 and the U.S. Code Title 15, Sections 1241-1245 banned the manufacture, import, distribution, and sale of automatic-opening knives across state lines.
So while butterfly knives are not specifically classified as switchblades in the Act, their fast deployments mean balisongs are sometimes regulated similarly to switchblades.

State Butterfly Knife Laws

Since federal law does not prohibit butterfly knives, it is up to the individual states to regulate them. Currently, 7 states have banned butterfly knives entirely:

• California – illegal to manufacture, sell, possess, transport, or carry butterfly knives
• Delaware – illegal to manufacture, sell, transfer, or possess butterfly knives
• Hawaii – illegal to manufacture, sell, transfer, possess, transport, or carry butterfly knives
• Maryland – illegal to manufacture, sell, carry, or possess butterfly knives
• Nevada – illegal to manufacture, import, sell, or carry butterfly knives
• New Jersey – illegal to manufacture, transport, dispose of, possess, carry, or use butterfly knives
• New York – illegal to manufacture, transport, dispose of, possess, or sell butterfly knives

In these 7 states, it is a crime to make, sell, own, carry, or even transport a balisong. Violators may face misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the state.

Restrictions in Other States

Some other states allow ownership of butterfly knives but place restrictions on carrying them in public. For example:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Florida – legal to own butterfly knives but illegal to carry concealed
• Georgia – legal to own but illegal to carry openly or concealed in public
• Illinois – legal to own but illegal to carry concealed
• Texas – legal to own but illegal to carry in certain locations like schools, polling places, courts, etc.

So in these states, you can legally purchase and own a butterfly knife. But you cannot carry it on your person in public without facing criminal penalties.
The rest of the states generally allow ownership and carrying of balisongs without issue. However, some cities and counties within those states may still ban butterfly knives locally.

Local Butterfly Knife Ordinances

Along with statewide butterfly knife laws, some city and county governments prohibit balisongs through local ordinances.
For example, butterfly knives are completely banned in New York City, even though they are allowed in other parts of New York state. Chicago also prohibits possession, sale, manufacture, and distribution of balisongs within city limits.
So even if butterfly knives are legal to own based on state laws, specific municipalities may still ban balisongs locally. Be sure to check your local city and county laws regarding butterfly knives.

Practical Uses of Butterfly Knives

With varying legality across different states and cities, what practical uses do butterfly knives have? Well balisongs can still serve various legal purposes depending on your location.

Recreational Butterfly Knife Uses

For one thing, butterfly knives are extremely popular for recreational flipping tricks. Their unique opening and closing mechanisms allow for visually impressive spins, rolls, transfers, and other manipulation tricks.
YouTube is filled with butterfly knife trick tutorials. In states where balisongs are legal to own, they make exciting recreational knives to flip and fidget with.

Everyday Carry Self-Defense Knife

In areas where balisongs are legal to carry concealed, their fast single-handed opening makes them viable self-defense knives. The butterfly knife design allows rapid deployment of the blade if needed to protect yourself.
Of course, fixed-blade knives, folding knives, and even pepper spray are also common self-defense tools. But for those living where butterfly knives are legal, balisongs can provide effective protection.

Collectible Display Pieces

Finally, butterfly knives make unique collectibles and display pieces. Even if balisongs are banned where you live, you can legally own them as display pieces rather than functional knives.
High-end butterfly knives from top manufacturers like Benchmade and Microtech can cost $200-500+. These premium balisongs serve more as artistic show pieces for collectors rather than practical users.
So even without legally carrying or flipping butterfly knives, they still hold value to collectors across the country.

Be Informed on Butterfly Knife Laws

When it comes to owning and carrying butterfly knives, laws vary significantly across the United States. What is completely legal in one state may be a felony just across the border.
So be sure to understand federal, state, and local butterfly knife laws based on where you live. Responsible balisong owners stay informed on exactly what is legal in their specific area.
And remember – just because you see butterfly knife trick videos online does not mean they are legal where you live. So check your regional statutes before purchasing or carrying butterfly knives to avoid criminal charges.
Stay safe and stay legal!