Arkansas has some of the least restrictive laws when it comes to carrying knives. Even so, there are still certain situations where carrying a knife is illegal.
It is important to understand how Arkansas’s knife laws may apply to you if you are planning on carrying a knife.
When is carrying a knife illegal?
According to FindLaw’s section on Arkansas knife laws, carrying a blade in The Natural State is illegal if you plan on using it as a weapon, or in another illegal manner. There are exceptions, however, when you may carry a knife as a weapon, such as in the following scenarios:
- You are somewhere that you have a proprietary interest in, such as your home or business
- You are a member of law enforcement carrying while on the job
- You are assisting a member of law enforcement while on the job
- You are a commissioned, registered security guard
- You are “on a journey”
It is important to note that whether or not you are on a journey, you cannot carry a knife into an international airport without declaring it as a weapon.
What about carrying a concealed knife?
Per Arkansas law, you may carry any type of concealed knife you wish. You cannot carry concealed knives into certain public spaces, however, such as schools or other government buildings.
Can a minor carry a knife?
While Arkansas is one of the few states that does not determine the legality of knives based on their length, it does have laws in place to restrict minors’ access to knives. Until you are 18-years-old, the only knife you can legally carry is a simple pocket knife.
It is worth noting that certain municipalities may create their own knife-carrying laws. Always do the appropriate research before carrying a knife to another city to avoid facing criminal charges.
