West Virginia maintains permissive pocket knife laws, allowing open carry without restrictions and concealed carry for adults 21+ under constitutional carry. Blades up to 3.5 inches classify as non-deadly weapons for anyone, with statewide preemption ensuring uniformity.
Key Definitions
Under §61-7-2, a “deadly weapon” includes knives (dirks, daggers, stilettos) over 3.5 inches, switchblades, gravity knives, but excludes pocket knives ≤3.5 inches, hunting knives, or tools unless used harmfully. Age matters: minors barred unless emancipated; 18-20 need provisional licenses for concealed deadly types.
Carry Rules
Open carry legal for all knives—no blade limits or permits. Concealed: 21+ constitutional carry (§61-7-7) covers any knife; under 21 limited to ≤3.5-inch folders openly or small concealed. Preemption (2020) nullifies stricter local rules.
| Age Group | Open Carry | Concealed Carry (≤3.5″) | Concealed (>3.5″ or auto) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | Limited (non-deadly) | No | No |
| 18-20 | Any | Yes (non-deadly) | Provisional license |
| 21+ | Any | Any | Yes, permitless |
Allowed Types
Switchblades, balisongs, assisted-openers, OTFs legal to own/carry—no bans. Disguised or ballistic knives fall under general rules, subject to intent. Dual-edge daggers over 3.5″ are deadly but carryable concealed by adults.
Restricted Places
Schools ban all knives, even ≤3.5″ pocket knives (§61-7-11a). Courthouses, capitol, federal buildings prohibit deadly weapons. Brandishing (§61-7-10) illegal anywhere.
Penalties
Concealed deadly weapon without license (under 21): misdemeanor, up to 1 year/$2,000. School violation: felony if over 18. Defenses: self-defense, tool use.
Practical Tips
Pocket-clip carry often not “concealed” factually. Verify via WV State Police; urban areas like Charleston enforce intent-based. EDC folders thrive in hunting-heavy state. Stay legal, carry responsibly.
SOURCES:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/west-virginia/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/west-virginia-knife-laws/
