Wisconsin’s knife laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, generally becoming more permissive. This guide provides an overview of the current legal landscape regarding knife ownership and carry in the state.
Knife Ownership
Wisconsin law allows for the ownership of a wide variety of knives, including:
- Switchblades (automatic knives)
- Butterfly knives
- Bowie knives
- Ballistic knives
- Disguised knives (e.g., pen knives, belt buckle knives)
- Daggers and other stabbing knives
There are no criminal bans on entire categories of knives in Wisconsin.
Carrying Knives
Open Carry
Open carry of knives is generally permitted in Wisconsin, regardless of blade length or knife type.
Concealed Carry
Wisconsin law has removed most knives from the list of “dangerous weapons” prohibited for concealed carry. This means that concealed carry of most knives, including automatic knives, is legal for most individuals.
Restrictions and Exceptions
While Wisconsin’s knife laws are relatively permissive, there are some important restrictions to note:
- Felons and Other Prohibited Persons: Individuals prohibited from possessing firearms (e.g., convicted felons) are also prohibited from carrying a concealed knife that is considered a “dangerous weapon”.
- Location Restrictions: Knives may be prohibited in certain locations, such as:
- Schools (K-12)
- Government buildings
- Courthouses
- Age Restrictions: It is unlawful to transfer a “dangerous weapon” to a minor.
Legal Definitions
The term “dangerous weapon” is crucial in Wisconsin knife law. It is defined as:”Any device designed as a weapon and capable of producing death or great bodily harm; or any other device or instrumentality which, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is calculated or likely to produce death or great bodily harm”.
Statewide Preemption
Wisconsin has a statewide preemption law for knife regulations, meaning local jurisdictions cannot enact stricter knife laws than those at the state level.
Penalties
Violations of Wisconsin knife laws can result in misdemeanor charges, potentially leading to fines and/or jail time.
Conclusion
While Wisconsin’s knife laws are generally permissive, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions that do exist, particularly regarding concealed carry by certain individuals and possession in specific locations. As always, it’s advisable to stay informed about any changes in the law and to consult with a legal professional if you have specific questions about your rights.
Sources:
- https://www.wisbar.org/NewsPublications/WisconsinLawyer/Pages/Article.aspx?ArticleID=28509&Issue=7&Volume=94
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/wisconsin-state-knife-laws
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/wisconsin-knife-laws/
- https://milwaukee-criminal-lawyer.com/wisconsin-knife-laws-2023/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/wisconsin-knife-laws/
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