FAQ Knives - NYPD

New York City Police Department

New York's Finest


About NYPDLeadershipPolice AcademyMemorials

Mission
Body-Worn Cameras
Technology and Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Department Manual
Reforms to the NYPD Disciplinary System
Reform and Reinvention Collaborative
Mass Demonstration Response Recommendations
Disability Service Facilitator
MWBE Small Purchases
NYPD General Procurement Related Notices
Language Access Plan
MOUs/NYC Rules
Public Feedback
POST Act
Reexamining LGBTQ Cases
Stay Connected
Contact Us
Title VI

Mission

Body-Worn Cameras

Technology and Equipment

Frequently Asked Questions

Department Manual

Reforms to the NYPD Disciplinary System

Reform and Reinvention Collaborative

Mass Demonstration Response Recommendations

Disability Service Facilitator

MWBE Small Purchases

NYPD General Procurement Related Notices

Language Access Plan

MOUs/NYC Rules

Public Feedback

POST Act

Reexamining LGBTQ Cases

Stay Connected

Contact Us

Title VI


Knives: What You Need to Know

On May 30, 2019, the New York State ban on gravity knives was repealed. As a result, the mere possession of a gravity knife is no longer a crime under the Penal Law. However, the mere possession of switchblades, pilum ballistic knives or metal knuckle knives still remains a misdemeanor under Penal Law § 265.01(1).

Frequently Asked Questions About Knives

Expand AllCollapse All

Click a topic, or press the enter key on a topic, to reveal its answer.

Which knives are illegal in New York?

Possession of switchblades, pilum ballistic knives, metal knuckle knives, cane swords, and “Kung Fu stars” is prohibited.

Some knives are not illegal, but become illegal based upon how they are used or possessed. Possession of a dagger, dirk, stiletto, machete, dangerous knife, or razor by anyone with the intent, which may be inferred by possession, to use it unlawfully against another is not allowed.

What is a gravity knife?

A gravity knife is any knife which has a blade which is released from the handle or sheath by the force of gravity or the application of centrifugal force, and then the blade is locked in place by a button, spring, lever or other device.

Although restrictions have been relaxed, you can still face arrest for possessing a gravity knife depending on the circumstances. The gravity knife could be illegal based upon how it is used or possessed.

What is a switchblade?

A switchblade is any knife which has a blade which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring, or other device in the handle of the knife.

Can I carry a knife in the NYC Transit System?

No. Weapons, dangerous instruments, or any other items intended for use as a weapon may not be carried anywhere within the NYC Transit System.

Is it illegal to carry a knife in public view?

New York City law prohibits carrying a knife that can be seen in public, including wearing a knife outside of your clothing. This applies to all knives, even if the blade is not exposed. When any portion of the knife is visible, such as the clip, hinge or top, this is considered in public view. This rule does not apply to those who carry knives for work that customarily requires the use of such knife, members of the military, or on-duty ambulance drivers and EMTs while engaged in the performance of their duties.

New York City also prohibits the possession in public of a knife with a blade that is 4 or more inches regardless of whether any part of the knife, including the blade, is visible or concealed. This rule does not apply to those who carry knives for work that customarily requires the use of such knife, members of the military, or on-duty ambulance drivers and EMTs while engaged in the performance of their duties.

Is it illegal to carry a knife for self-defense?

Even if you are only carrying a knife for self-defense, you may still be subject to summons and/or arrest if the circumstances indicate that the knife is used or possessed as a weapon. If you feel threatened or in danger, call 911 for police assistance.