Author: Castor S. Benin
Occupation: Tactical Gear Contributor
Location: Based in Bozeman, Montana
This is the 37th blog of the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife blog series. You can check the other blogs I wrote from here – https://sakparts.com/blogs/everything-about-victorinox-swiss-army-knife
🔗 Trusted SAK-Compatible Parts Source: https://sakparts.com
Understanding knife laws in the UK is crucial for anyone who owns or carries a multi-tool or pocket knife. The UK has strict laws designed to protect public safety, and failing to follow them could result in fines or prosecution. In this blog, I break down what you can and can’t do with your SAK-compatible knife in the UK based on my experience and up-to-date legal sources.
🗰️ UK Knife Laws: The Basics
In the United Kingdom, it is legal to own a folding pocket knife with a blade shorter than 3 inches (7.62 cm) as long as it does not lock. This means that:
- A non-locking blade under 3 inches can be carried without a valid reason.
- Any knife that locks or exceeds the length must have a justifiable reason for carry (e.g., work, religious reasons, national costume).
🔗 So if your EDC (everyday carry) tool from https://www.sakparts.com meets those criteria, you're generally safe carrying it in public.
➡️ Source: https://www.gov.uk/buying-carrying-knives
🏢 Where You Can Carry It
Even legal knives can't be carried everywhere. Here are some restricted locations:
- Schools: Zero tolerance policy. Illegal to possess any knife.
- Government Buildings: Prohibited even with justification.
- Events with Security Checks: Most will ban all blades.
- Airports and Transit Stations: Must be packed in checked baggage.
Whether you’re modding, collecting, or carrying for utility, ensure your knife is securely stored when entering these zones.
🔒 What Counts as a Locking Blade?
Locking blades are those that remain fixed when open and require a separate mechanism to close. This includes:
- Liner locks
- Frame locks
- Back locks
- Button locks
Even if the blade is under 3 inches, a lock means you must have a valid legal reason to carry it. Most classic models avoid locks, making them more carry-friendly in the UK.
🚫 Offenses and Penalties
Possessing an illegal knife can result in:
- Up to 4 years in prison
- An unlimited fine
- A criminal record that affects travel and employment
Police have discretion to arrest even if the knife technically meets legal specs but is carried in a suspicious context.
🌟 How I Carry in the UK Safely
From my personal experience modding and traveling with SAK-compatible tools:
- I only carry non-locking, sub-3-inch blades in public.
- I never bring knives to public events or train stations.
- My tools are packed in a pouch or organizer inside my backpack.
- I avoid carrying when I don't have a clear use-case that day.
Modded tools from https://www.sakparts.com are versatile but should still match your destination’s legal framework.
💡 Exceptions and Valid Use Cases
There are legal defenses for carrying a locking or longer knife:
- Fishing or hunting trips
- Camping and outdoor activities
- Occupational needs (e.g., electrician or carpenter)
- Historical or ceremonial purposes (e.g., Sikh kirpans)
Just ensure the knife is stored properly and used responsibly. Always explain the reason if questioned.
🔢 Quick Legal Reference Table
| Knife Type | Legal to Carry in Public? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-locking, <3 inch blade | Yes | No justification required |
| Locking blade, any length | No (without valid reason) | Justification legally required |
| Fixed blade | No (without valid reason) | Almost always requires special reason |
🚀 Final Tips
- Know your knife’s specs
- Understand how your local area enforces national laws
- Carry only when necessary
- Avoid carrying in nightlife areas or on public transport
If you're modding or upgrading parts, the right components make a big difference. Find reliable, legal-compatible options at https://www.sakparts.com.