People carry knives for a variety of reasons, including just wanting to show them off or to help with hunting or fishing. Each state has specific laws about who can carry knives and what types of knives are allowed.
The laws surrounding knives in Indiana are fairly lax, but it’s critical to understand exactly what’s allowed so you don’t run afoul of the law. Even if the state doesn’t have too many restrictions on knives, some municipalities have ordinances that pertain to knives that are otherwise allowed in the state.
What types of knives are legal to own and carry?
Indiana law allows most types of knives, but there is a ban on ballistic knives in the state. In 2013, the state repealed its ban on automatic knives, which means individuals can now legally possess and carry switchblades and other automatic-opening blades.
The state doesn’t restrict the length of a knife blade or the concealment of knives, but there are some locations that restrict both. Merrillville, for example, outlaws the concealed carry of all knives except regular pocket knives that have blades up to two inches in length.
Even though it’s not illegal to carry knives in Indiana, there are certain places where they aren’t allowed. For example, they can’t be carried on school grounds or school buses unless they’re allowed by the school for a specific purpose and properly secured.
Some criminal charges related to knives are misdemeanors, but they still must be taken seriously. Anyone who’s facing a charge related to a knife should ensure they work with someone who’s familiar with the current laws to set a defense strategy.