Everything You Should Know About Minnesota Knife Laws
2 weeks ago by Justin M. Schiks
Minnesota knife laws are complicated, taking into consideration the fact that different types of knives often fall into gray areas. A collector, an outdoors person, or just about anyone carrying a pocketknife should know the regulations of the state as to knife-carrying. Minnesota law classifies certain knives as dangerous weapons, making it essential to know which ones are legal to carry and under what circumstances.
Violation of these laws can have quite serious legal consequences, which include fines and possible imprisonment. JS Defense, Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyers, are the professionals who assist their clients in understanding these laws and defending against criminal charges relating to weapon possession.
Understanding Minnesota Knife Laws
Not all knives are treated the same under Minnesota law. Some are legal to possess but may be restricted in certain situations. Others are illegal, period. It all depends on whether or not the knife is considered to be a “dangerous weapon.”
According to Minnesota law, a dangerous weapon is any device designed as a weapon that is capable of causing serious injury or death. This broad definition means that even legal knives can be deemed unlawful if used in a threatening or harmful manner.
Minnesota’s Dangerous Weapons Regulations
The state takes a firm stance on certain types of knives, particularly automatic ones. Minnesota law prohibits the possession of switchblades—knives that open automatically by pressing a button, spring, or another mechanism in the handle.
According to Minnesota Statutes, carrying a switchblade knife is considered a misdemeanor offense, punishable by fines or even jail time in some cases.
Carrying and Possession of Knives in Minnesota
In most cases, carrying a knife openly in Minnesota is legal, provided it is not classified as a dangerous weapon. However, there are key restrictions to be aware of:
- Carrying a knife on school property is strictly prohibited.
- Using a knife in a threatening manner can escalate charges to assault with a dangerous weapon.
- Some city ordinances impose additional restrictions, so it’s essential to check local laws before carrying a knife in public.
Violating these regulations could result in criminal charges, including misdemeanor or even felony penalties.
Automatic Knives and Minnesota Knife Regulations
Minnesota law prohibits switchblades, or automatic knives, as a result of how quickly they deploy. It is illegal to sell, possess, or transport these knives in or within the state.
Carrying an automatic knife in Minnesota subjects the offender to criminal charges that may include fines or jail time under state law.
Restrictions on Gravity Knives in Minnesota
Although the law does not particularly ban gravity knives, whether they are considered dangerous weapons is left to intent and use.
A gravity knife opens by centrifugal force, such as a flick of the wrist. Although it is legal to possess one, using or possessing one in a threatening manner may lead to criminal charges.
Spring Assisted Knives and Their Place in Minnesota Law
Spring-assisted knives differ from automatic knives in that they must have manual pressure initially applied to the blade deployment.
Spring-assisted knives are usually legal in Minnesota. They should not be switchblades. Even so, carrying them in a threatening manner will lead to legal consequences.
OTF Knives and Their Legal Status in Minnesota
Being one of the types of knives that open automatically with the press of a button, OTF or out-the-front knives fall under Minnesota’s switchblade ban.
The state treats OTF knives no differently than traditional switchblades, and possession of either is a misdemeanor offense.
Legalities of Butterfly Knives in Minnesota
Unlike switchblade knives, butterfly knives or balisongs are not prohibited under Minnesota statute.
A person could, of course, turn a butterfly knife into an illegal instrument by using it in an illegal manner, such as in a threatening way, for which they could suffer criminal penalties. Use caution with any weapon when in public.
Penalties for Violating Minnesota Knife Laws
Minnesota has stiff penalties for the sale, possession, or use of illegal knives:
- Carrying a prohibited knife is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
- Knife charges are considered felonies in the commission of a crime and, as such, carry harsher sentences, including imprisonment.
Contact Us for Expert Guidance on Minnesota’s Weapons Laws
Knife laws are extremely confusing in Minnesota, and a misstep may sink a person deep into legal trouble. If you’re facing any kind of criminal charges having to do with possession of a knife, JS Defense is here to help. Call now for a consultation.
