German law about knives (with new regulations from 30.10.2024)

Knife Law in Germany 2025 – Poster A3 Paragraph § 42a of the Weapons Act

Within the Weapons Act, paragraph § 42a explains the prohibition of carrying imitation weapons and certain portable objects in Germany:

  1. It is forbidden.
    1. Imitation firearms,
    2. Bladed and thrusting weapons according to Annex 1 Section 1 Subsection 2 No. 1.1 or
    3. Carrying knives with a blade that can be locked with one hand (one-handed knives) or fixed-blade knives with a blade length exceeding 12 cm.
  2. Paragraph 1 does not apply
    1. for use in photo, film or television recordings or theatre performances,
    2. for transport in a sealed container,
    3. for carrying the items specified in paragraph 1, numbers 2 and 3, provided there is a legitimate interest. Further regulations remain unaffected.
  3. A legitimate interest pursuant to paragraph 2 no. 3 exists in particular if the carrying of the items is in connection with the exercise of a profession, the maintenance of customs, sport or a generally recognized purpose.

"One-hand locking" knives are knives that have a device for one-handed opening and a blade locking mechanism. If a knife has only one of these features, it is not subject to Section 42a.

"Slashing and thrusting weapons" are objects whose intended purpose is use as a weapon, as is the case, for example, with double-edged daggers or bayonets. The mere suitability of an object for use as a weapon does not automatically make it one. For example, a chef's knife can certainly be used as a weapon, but its intended purpose is decisive for its classification as a utility item, which is why a chef's knife is not classified as a weapon.

The generally accepted purpose

The so-called "generally accepted purpose" is not further defined. We would like to explicitly point out that the legislator does not refer to an "officially recognized" or "legally recognized" purpose. The phrase "generally accepted purpose" suggests that it refers to common sense, according to which carrying, for example, a pocket knife is customary and appropriate in various situations. Incidentally, the legislator does not recognize self-defense as such a purpose. For example: In the forest, a hunter needs a knife for the proper handling of game, but this person cannot bring this knife to a cinema or similar venue in the evening.

Since this definition is very vaguely worded, it cannot be ruled out that, for example, an inspecting officer might offer a different interpretation. However, the legislator has included this "generally recognized purpose" in the law. Therefore, blanket statements such as "one-handed knives are generally prohibited" or "carrying one-handed knives is generally prohibited" are clearly incorrect.

UPDATE 30.10.2024: NEW GUN LAW

The latest changes to the weapons law now also affect regulations for knives. Published on October 30, 2024, and coming into force on October 31, 2024, new regulations govern the sale, use, and possession of knives. Here is a summary of the most important points:

1. Ban on carrying knives at public events

Carrying knives at public events (e.g., festivals, fairs, sporting events) is now generally prohibited – regardless of blade length or opening mechanism. However, there are certain exceptions, which we briefly list here:

  • Delivery traffic
  • Business owners and their agents who use knives professionally
  • People transporting knives without direct access
  • Use of knives in buildings or areas with the consent of those in charge
  • Commercial exhibition of knives at trade fairs and markets
  • Emergency services in civil protection and disaster relief
  • Contributors to film or theatre productions as well as historical reenactments
  • Knife handling in connection with tradition, hunting or sport
  • People in the catering industry, including staff and guests
  • People who use knives for generally accepted purposes

Of particular relevance: Knives are considered "not readily accessible" if they can only be reached with more than three movements – locked storage is not required. This means that knives can also be moved through knife-free zones.

2. Ban on switchblades

Since October 31, 2024, switchblades have been generally prohibited in Germany. Possession and use are punishable offenses, with a few exceptions:

  • People with a legitimate interest, such as people with a hand or arm disability
  • Professional use in connection with hunting, crafts or certain sports such as sailing and mountaineering
  • Commercial dealers or manufacturers of such knives

3. New rules for weapons-free zones

State governments can designate special weapons-free zones where carrying knives is restricted or prohibited. These zones allow for checks at any time, and the aforementioned exceptions generally apply here as well. However, please note that regional regulations may differ from the general list of exceptions in individual cases.

4. Prohibition of driving in public long-distance transport

The new Section 42b of the Weapons Act prohibits carrying knives on public long-distance transport and in enclosed bus stop areas. However, the existing 10 exceptions still apply, as does the requirement to transport knives in a way that prevents them from being readily accessible .

These new regulations pose challenges for many knife owners. We advise you to familiarize yourself thoroughly with the changes and to comply with the legal provisions. Since the law still allows for some interpretation, the final legal outcome is currently unpredictable. Thank you for your understanding.

Legal advice

We would also like to point out that this summary is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It cannot and should not replace individual and binding legal advice tailored to your specific situation. Therefore, all information provided is without guarantee of accuracy or completeness.