🚀 Alabama Knife Laws
Overview
Alabama does not have statewide preemption, so local ordinances may impose additional restrictions. Both open and concealed carry of knives are legal. There is no general blade length restriction. All common knife types are legal to own and carry.
Quick Legal Facts
Carry Laws & Blade Length
Alabama has no restriction on open carry of knives. No blade length limit applies to open carry at the state level.
Statute: 13A-11-57
As of January 1, 2023, concealed carry of all knives is legal. HB272 (Act 2022-133) amended § 13A-11-50 to remove all knife references, leaving it applicable only to pistols and firearms. Previously, concealed carry of Bowie knives and similar was prohibited.
Statute: 13A-11-57
No statewide blade length limit. Local ordinances may impose limits (e.g., Montgomery 3-inch limit) since Alabama lacks knife preemption. § 13A-11-61.3 preempts only firearms, not knives.
Statute: 13A-11-61.3
Knife Type Legality
| Knife Type | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Switchblades | Legal | No prohibition on switchblades. They are mentioned only in § 13A-11-72 (school property deadly weapon definition) but are not banned statewide. Statute: 13A-11-72 |
| Balisongs / Butterfly Knives | Legal | Not specifically addressed in Alabama law. No prohibition on butterfly knives. They are not classified as switchblades under Alabama statutes. Statute: 13A-11-72 |
| Disguised Knives | Legal | Alabama does not prohibit disguised knives. Unlike disguised firearms (rifle/shotgun walking canes), there is no analogous prohibition for disguised knives. Statute: 13A-11-72 |
| Assisted-Opening | Legal | Not specifically addressed. No prohibition on assisted-opening knives. Alabama does not classify knives by opening mechanism. Statute: 13A-11-72 |
| Ballistic Knives | Legal | No Alabama statute prohibits ballistic knives at the state level. Federal restrictions (18 U.S.C. § 1716, 15 U.S.C. § 1245) still apply to manufacture, sale, and mailing. Statute: 13A-11-72 |
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. Laws change frequently and local ordinances may impose additional restrictions beyond state law. Always verify with official state sources before making decisions about knife carry or ownership. KnifeInformer is not a law firm — consult a qualified attorney for specific legal questions.
