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UK Knife Law for the Outdoors - 2024 Update

7th October 2024

I’ve written this article several times now – initially over a decade ago, then an update when the changes in rules around selling knives online came about.

With the recent amendments to the Criminal Justice Act 1988 to ban the so-called Zombie Knives and some styles of machetes, I thought it would be worth updating the guidance we have on this website.

We talk about using knives legally and safely in an outdoor setting during our bushcraft and wilderness skills courses – you can find those over on our Outdoor Professional website.

This is a guide – with a lot of links out to the relevant legislation. I have primarily included links for English and welsh law, but as with anything like this you should ensure that you read up on the law for your part the UK.

Some areas of law here are quite clear, others more nuanced and depend entirely on the circumstances. It is up to you, as the user of the knife, to be aware of these laws and to act accordingly.

I have also included a section for Police officers to refer to – this is not to tell you how to do your job, but it may assist you when assessing the context of that person carrying that tool in that place.

Essential Points Summary

Before diving into the details, here are the key points you need to know about UK knife laws as of October 2024:

You can legally carry a folding pocket knife in most public places if its blade is shorter than 3 inches (7.62 cm) and doesn’t lock.

Any other knife requires a good reason to carry.

Some design or types of knives, like zombie knives and butterfly knives, are completely banned. The laws changed recently and it is your responsibility to be aware of those changes – ignorance is not a defence.

Breaking these laws can result in up to four years in prison and an unlimited fine.

UK Knife Laws - An Introduction

Knives are fundamental tools in outdoor living and working. I have had a knife of some type somewhere in my pocket or rucksack for pretty much every day I have been at work.

A good knife is often an essential tool – either as a standalone item or as part of a multitool. However, the UK’s knife laws are among the strictest in the world, and they’ve become even more stringent in recent years.

Understanding these laws isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble – it’s about being a responsible outdoor practitioner who can confidently explain and justify their tools and techniques to those around them. Just because you feel confident in your legal ability to carry a bladed item in that place and at that time doesn’t mean that everyone else will agree. 

Successive UK governments have placed significant emphasis on public safety with regard to carrying items that could be construed as weapons. This is why knife laws here are stricter than in some other countries.

The most important piece of legislation governing knives in the UK is the Criminal Justice Act 1988, along with updates made under the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 and the most recent amendments in 2023.

The law generally divides knives into two categories:

– those that are legal to own but restricted to carry

– those that are outright banned.

Whether you are legally permitted to carry a knife depends largely on the type of knife and the context of its intended use.

Key Legislation and Sections to Be Aware Of

1. Criminal Justice Act 1988, Section 139

This section outlines the restrictions on carrying knives in public places. The core principle of this law is that it is illegal to carry any “article which has a blade or is sharply pointed” in a public space without good reason or lawful authority.

Exceptions are made for folding pocket knives, but these come with specific criteria.

“It is an offence to have with you in a public place any article which has a blade or is sharply pointed, except a folding pocketknife if the cutting edge of its blade does not exceed 3 inches (7.62 cm).”

This is commonly known as the “3-inch rule.” However, it’s important to note that for this exception to apply, the knife must be a folding pocket knife that does not lock. If the blade locks when opened, it is not considered a folding pocket knife for the purposes of this exception, regardless of its length.

2. Offensive Weapons Act 2019

In addition to Section 139 of the Criminal Justice Act, the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 introduced tighter controls on what can be owned and sold in the UK, particularly regarding knives classified as offensive weapons.

The key point here is that certain types of knives, such as zombie knives, flick knives and butterfly knives, are banned outright.

“It is an offence to possess certain offensive weapons, including flick knives, gravity knives, and other bladed articles defined under the Act, both in public and private spaces.”

This legislation also introduced strict regulations on the online sale of knives, requiring robust age verification checks and ensuring that deliveries can only be made to a residential address, with the seller taking all reasonable precautions to ensure the buyer is over 18 years old.

3. Recent Updates: Offensive Weapons Act (Amendment) 2023

The most recent changes, introduced in 2023, focus on “zombie knives” and certain types of machetes.

These amendments target bladed weapons with a threatening design, often linked to violent crime.

As of 24th September 2024, possessing these specific items (including in your home) is illegal, unless you meet a valid exemption.

Not all machetes are banned, though—those designed and used for practical purposes like agriculture and forestry remain legal when used legitimately.

“It is an offence to possess an offensive weapon such as a zombie knife or a machete designed to cause harm, unless it is being used for a lawful purpose, such as farming or forestry.”

What Counts as "Good Reason"?

One of the most frequently asked questions revolves around the concept of “good reason.”

This term is central to UK knife laws and dictates whether or not you can legally carry a knife over 3 inches or with a locking mechanism in public.

According to the law, you may carry such a knife if you can demonstrate a justifiable reason, relevant to your activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, acceptable reasons could include:

Bushcraft and Outdoor Skills: When teaching or practising bushcraft, a fixed-blade knife may be required for safely carving or processing wood.

Fishing or Hunting: Many outdoor tools, including knives, are essential for activities like fishing, skinning game, or cutting rope.

Agriculture and Forestry: Farmers, foresters, and land managers often use larger knives or machetes as part of their day-to-day work.

However, it’s essential to note that carrying a knife without a clear purpose — even if you’re in the countryside — can still lead to legal trouble. It is your responsibility to explain why you have that knife in that location at that time.

Always be prepared to explain why you are carrying a knife and demonstrate how it’s relevant to your task – you cannot take for granted that somebody else will know why you have a knife with you for your work or hobby.

Locking Knives and Fixed Blades

Locking knives, such as those with a blade that locks into place once opened, are another point of confusion for many outdoor users.

Under UK law, locking knives are treated the same as fixed-blade knives, which means that carrying them in public without a good reason is prohibited. This restriction applies even if the blade is under 3 inches.

Fixed-blade knives, which are commonly used in bushcraft and survival training/emergency preparedness situations, can also be legally carried in public – but only with a clear and legitimate reason.

Axes, Saws, Machetes, and Other Outdoor Cutting Tools

Axes and Hatchets

Axes and hatchets are indispensable for tasks such as chopping wood, splitting logs, or clearing brush in outdoor, forestry and bushcraft settings.

Unlike knives, axes and hatchets generally don’t fall under the same tight legal restrictions in the UK. However, they can still be classified as an offensive weapon if carried in public without a good reason.

Under Section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953:

“An offensive weapon is defined as any article made, adapted, or intended for causing injury.”

This means that although an axe is not specifically restricted by blade length, carrying one in a public space (such as a park or woodland that is publicly accessible) without a valid reason could lead to trouble.

If you’re using an axe in a specific outdoor activity—such as on private land that you have permission to be on, during an organised course, or as part of forestry work—you are much less likely to face any legal consequences. But again, the principle of having a “good reason” applies, and you should ensure the axe is stowed away securely when travelling to and from the activity.

Saws (Inc. Bushcraft and Folding Saws)

Folding saws, often used in bushcraft/campcraft for wood processing, generally escape the same strict scrutiny as knives or axes because they are less likely to be perceived as offensive weapons. However, folding saws with locking mechanisms should still be treated carefully, especially if carried in public.

While the law doesn’t specifically restrict folding saws, it’s wise to ensure that any saw you carry is linked to your activity (such as cutting wood for shelter-building or firewood) and not casually accessible.

Much like knives and axes, context matters here. Using a saw as part of an outdoor task on private land or within a structured course provides a clear justification.

Machetes

Machetes fall into a more tightly regulated category. They are often seen as dangerous weapons due to their association with violent crime in urban areas. Under the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, machetes are classified similarly to large knives. Recent amendments to the law in 2023 further restricted their use and possession.

As of 2024, owning and using a machete in the UK is only lawful under certain circumstances, typically for professional use in farming, forestry, or gardening.

For example, land managers may use machetes for clearing thick undergrowth, but carrying one in a public place without justification could lead to prosecution.

If you’re using a machete in a legitimate outdoor setting—such as maintaining woodland or during a survival course—you can still legally own and use it. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when transporting it to avoid misunderstandings – and the duty is still on the person carrying the item to prove why they have a ‘good reason‘ for carrying it.

Other Outdoor Cutting Tools (Billhooks, Kukris, and More)

Other cutting tools like billhooks, kukris, and parang-style knives are widely used in various outdoor professions and activities, particularly in forestry, hedgelaying, and other land management tasks.

While these tools are not banned, the same principle applies: you must have a good reason to carry them in public spaces.

For example, a billhook used by a countryside ranger for hedgelaying would be perfectly legal if the person can demonstrate a legitimate purpose, and a reason for them carrying in that place at that time. 

Sharp Tools and Public Transport

One often overlooked aspect of knife and tool law is how you transport these items when moving between locations, particularly via public transport. Carrying a visible axe, knife, or machete while travelling through urban areas or on public transport can be alarming to others and attract attention from law enforcement.

It’s vital to ensure that:

  1. Tools are stowed securely in a bag.
  2. You can provide a valid explanation if questioned.

Public transport carriers, including trains and buses, might have their own rules about carrying sharp tools. If you’re using public transport, consider contacting the carrier in advance to check their regulations, or opt for private transport if possible.

Practical Advice for Carrying and Using Outdoor Cutting Tools Legally

Use in Legitimate Context: Always carry knives, axes, and other tools in a context that justifies their use. This means actively engaging in an outdoor skill or profession that necessitates these tools.

Secure Storage: When not in use, store knives and other tools securely in a backpack or vehicle, ideally sheathed or within protective covers. Avoid leaving tools visible or easily accessible during transit.

Preparation to Explain: Be prepared to explain the reason for carrying a knife or tool if questioned by authorities. Clearly articulate how it relates to your current outdoor activity or skill.

Be Mindful of Public Spaces: If you’re in public areas, especially urban environments, consider whether your tools could be perceived as threatening. Always err on the side of caution.

Stay Updated: Keep informed about any changes in legislation or local laws, as knife laws can evolve. Always ensure that your understanding of what constitutes a “good reason” aligns with current laws.

UK Knife laws are simultaneously very clear – and ambiguous enough to cause some confusion. The ability to legally carry a bladed article in an outdoor context relies on several factors – and one of those is your ability to articulate why you feel that tool is necessary for you to conduct that activity.

While the laws are strict, they also provide room for legitimate use of knives and cutting tools in contextually appropriate situations.

By remaining informed and cautious, you can ensure that your outdoor pursuits are both enjoyable and compliant with the law. Always be prepared to articulate the purpose of any tools you carry, and stay updated on legislation to ensure a smooth experience while living a ‘Life More Wild.’

profile photo of Richard Prideaux

Richard Prideaux

A Mountain Leader with over a decade of experience across the UK and overseas, Richard is our Lead Instructor and a partner in Original Outdoors. He is a specialist in temperate wilderness skills and the wild foods of the British Isles, and also works as a consultant for various brands and organisations. Richard lives in North Wales.

A Life more Wild.

A Life More Wild is the philosophy which underpins everything we do.

It encompasses practical skills, personal development, community learning and a journey to live more intentionally.

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