Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Illinois? (2026)
No — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Illinois as of 2026.
Law changed in 2017: The law was changed in 2017 to allow for the possession of switchblades with a FOID card. No major changes since.
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Quick Answer
Illinois prohibits switchblade knives under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(10). Possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblades are illegal except for law enforcement or military use. There are strict penalties for violations.
What the Law Says
Illinois law prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of switchblades. However, a person with a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card can possess a switchblade.
— Illinois Compiled Statutes, 720 ILCS 5/24-1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades except for law enforcement or military. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture switchblades. |
| Penalties | Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines and imprisonment. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The law was changed in 2017 to allow for the possession of switchblades with a FOID card. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Illinois requires a Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card to legally possess a switchblade. Enforcement is strict, and possession without a FOID card is a crime.
A common mistake is to believe that a concealed carry license for a firearm also allows for the concealed carry of a switchblade. This is not the case. A FOID card is required for possession.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Illinois. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Switchblades / Automatic Knives are illegal in Illinois. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Illinois vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a switchblade is fully legal in 18 states, restricted in 17, and illegal in 15. Illinois falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Switchblades / Automatic Knives:
Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Illinois?
What are the penalties for carrying a switchblade in Illinois?
How strictly does Illinois enforce its switchblades / automatic knives laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Illinois?
What is the age restriction for carrying a switchblade in Illinois?
Does the law on carrying a switchblade change at the Illinois border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Other States
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