Montana Knife Laws (2026) – What You Can Legally Carry

Overview of Montana Knife Laws in 2026

Montana is one of the most knife-friendly states in the United States. The state places virtually no restrictions on the types of knives that residents and visitors can own, carry openly, or carry concealed. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a hunter, a collector, or someone who simply wants to carry a pocket knife for everyday use, Montana’s laws are straightforward and permissive.

In 2019, Governor Steve Bullock signed HB 155 into law, which repealed Montana’s longstanding ban on switchblade knives and enacted statewide knife law preemption. This landmark legislation means that automatic knives are now completely legal in Montana, and local municipalities cannot pass knife ordinances that are more restrictive than state law. Montana was the 16th state to repeal its switchblade ban since Knife Rights began its advocacy efforts in 2010.

What Knives Are Legal to Own in Montana?

Montana law does not restrict the ownership of any type of knife. You may legally own:

• Folding knives and pocket knives of any blade length
• Fixed-blade knives, including hunting knives and Bowie knives
• Switchblades and automatic knives (legalized in 2019)
• Butterfly knives (balisongs)
• Daggers, dirks, and stilettos
• Gravity knives
• Machetes and swords
• Multi-tools with knife blades
• Throwing knives

There are no blade length restrictions for ownership purposes. Montana respects the right of its residents to own whatever edged tools and weapons they choose.

Open Carry Laws in Montana

Montana permits the open carry of any knife without restriction. There are no limitations on blade type, blade length, or knife style when carrying openly. Whether you are carrying a large Bowie knife on your belt, a machete in a sheath, or a fixed-blade hunting knife, you are within your legal rights to do so in most public areas.

Concealed Carry Laws for Knives in Montana

Unlike many states that restrict the concealed carry of certain knife types or impose blade length limitations for concealed carry, Montana allows the concealed carry of any knife. This includes switchblades, butterfly knives, daggers, and any other type of edged weapon. No concealed carry permit is required specifically for knives.

Montana’s permissive concealed carry stance extends from its broader constitutional carry philosophy. The state recognizes the right of law-abiding adults to carry weapons for self-defense without excessive government regulation.

Restricted Locations in Montana

While Montana’s knife laws are very permissive, there are important location-based restrictions to be aware of:

Schools

Under Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-361, it is illegal to possess a knife with a blade of 4 inches or more, a sword, or a straight razor on school property. This applies to all public and private K-12 schools. Violations can result in criminal charges. Parents, guardians, or others who have legitimate reasons to be on school grounds should ensure they do not carry prohibited items.

Government Buildings

Some government buildings, particularly courthouses and secured federal facilities, may have their own rules regarding weapons including knives. Always check posted signage and comply with security screening requirements.

Federal Property

Federal regulations may override state law on federal property such as post offices, military installations, and national parks visitor centers. While many national parks and forests in Montana permit knives, certain buildings within them may not.

Statewide Preemption

One of the most significant aspects of Montana’s knife laws is the statewide preemption provision enacted through HB 155 in 2019. This means that cities, counties, and other local jurisdictions in Montana cannot enact knife regulations that are more restrictive than state law. Before preemption, some Montana cities had local ordinances that restricted certain knife types. With preemption in place, all local knife regulations that conflicted with state law were nullified.

This provides clarity and consistency for knife carriers throughout the state. Whether you are in Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, or a rural community, the same rules apply everywhere.

Montana Knife Laws for Minors

Montana does not have specific statutory restrictions on minors possessing knives in general. However, the school restrictions apply to all persons, including minors. Parents should use common sense and judgment when allowing children to carry knives, and should educate them about safe handling practices. Some retailers may voluntarily refuse to sell certain knife types to minors.

Penalties for Violations

Violations of Montana’s knife laws, particularly regarding the possession of knives on school grounds, can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the circumstances. A conviction for carrying a prohibited weapon on school property can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. Intent and context play significant roles in how charges are pursued.

Montana Knife Laws vs. Neighboring States

Montana’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the region. If you plan to travel with knives, be aware that neighboring states may have different regulations:

• Wyoming also has very permissive knife laws with statewide preemption
• North Dakota classifies certain knives as dangerous weapons with concealed carry restrictions
• South Dakota has minimal knife-specific regulations

Always verify the laws of any state you plan to travel through or visit. For a complete overview of knife regulations across the country, visit our US Knife Laws guide.

Recent Legislative Changes

The most significant recent change to Montana knife law was HB 155 in 2019, which accomplished two major goals: repealing the state’s switchblade ban and enacting statewide knife law preemption. Since then, no major legislative changes affecting knife laws have been enacted in Montana. The state continues to maintain its position as one of the most knife-friendly jurisdictions in the country.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Knife laws can change, and local ordinances may apply in some situations despite preemption. Always consult with a qualified attorney in Montana if you have specific legal questions about knife ownership or carry in your area.

Explore Knife Laws in Other States

Knife laws vary significantly from state to state. If you travel with knives, make sure you understand the regulations in each state you visit.

• Mississippi Knife Laws
• Missouri Knife Laws
• Nebraska Knife Laws
• Nevada Knife Laws
• New Hampshire Knife Laws
• Complete US Knife Laws Guide (All 50 States)