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Gravity knives have long attracted controversy. They open by using gravity or inertia rather than a thumb stud or nail nick. In practice, that means a blade can swing into place with a flick of the wrist. Lawmakers have often equated this feature with concealability and speed, leading to bans in many jurisdictions. The legal picture, however, is more complex than often reported.
A gravity knife is a folding knife whose blade releases by the force of gravity or by centrifugal force. Instead of a spring button, the user disengages a latch or lock and the blade falls or swings freely until locked into place. In many statutes, gravity knives are grouped with “switchblades” or “automatic knives,” even though the mechanisms differ. Some jurisdictions test them by a so-called “wrist-flick,” a standard that has been heavily criticized for vagueness.
Contrary to a common misconception, there is no federal ban on the mere possession of gravity knives. The Federal Switchblade Act of 1958 regulates their interstate commerce and importation. The statute defines a switchblade as any knife that opens automatically by hand pressure, inertia, or gravity. That means importing or shipping a gravity knife across state lines for commercial purposes can violate federal law, but ownership within a state is left to local regulation.
For decades, New York City police and prosecutors relied on the “wrist-flick test” to classify many ordinary folding knives as illegal gravity knives. Thousands of workers and tradespeople were arrested under the statute. In 2019, a federal court ruled the law unconstitutionally vague . Soon after, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill repealing the gravity-knife ban statewide. As of May 30, 2019, possession of a gravity knife is legal in New York, though other weapon laws continue to apply.
State laws differ sharply:
Read more: Knife Laws by State
Lawmakers in the mid-20th century associated gravity knives with crime and concealability. Campaigns against “dangerous youth weapons” in the 1950s fueled restrictions at both state and federal levels. The problem is that vague statutory language swept up many common folding knives. New York’s repeal in 2019 and Hawaii’s reform in 2024 show a growing recognition that design, not misuse, has driven many prohibitions.
Even where legal, owning a gravity knife carries the same responsibility as any other fine tool. Proper care extends its lifespan and reduces the risk of malfunction.
Expert Tip from Bob Doiron, Master Bladesmith (ABS):
“Treat a folding mechanism like a precision watch. Clean grit out, keep it lightly oiled, and don’t force it. Most lock failures I see come from neglect, not design flaws.”
Source: American Bladesmith Society – ABS Master Bladesmiths
Video credit: Chrispy Things [EDC]
Doug Ritter, Chairman of Knife Rights, summarizes the legal reality:
“There is no federal ban on possessing gravity knives. The Switchblade Act only regulates interstate commerce and import. The real problem has been outdated and vague state laws, like New York’s old wrist-flick test. Fortunately, we’re seeing reforms in states like Colorado, New York, Ohio, and Hawaii that recognize these knives are simply tools.”
Source: Knife Rights
Are gravity knives legal under federal law?
Yes. Federal law regulates interstate commerce and imports, but does not ban private ownership. State law governs possession and carry.
Why were they banned in New York?
Because the “wrist-flick” test allowed broad enforcement. Courts later found the law vague, leading to repeal in 2019.
Can I buy a gravity knife in Hawaii?
Yes. As of May 2024, Hawaii repealed its ban on gravity and switchblade knives.
Are gravity knives legal in Germany?
No. They are prohibited weapons under the Waffengesetz, with narrow exceptions.
What about the UK?
Possession, even in private, has been illegal since July 2021 under the Offensive Weapons Act.
Video credit: Neeves Knives
Gravity knives have been caught in the crossfire of legislation more for their perceived image than their actual risks. While federal law does not forbid owning them, many states and countries still impose bans or restrictions. The recent wave of reforms signals a shift toward clearer, more rational laws. Anyone interested in carrying or collecting such knives must consult their own jurisdiction’s current statutes, as legal status changes rapidly.
To learn more and enrich your knowledge about gravity knives and a host of other knives we welcome you to our Knife News. And to buy the best set of knives at the most reasonable prices, we invite you to our Exceptional World of Noblie Custom Knives.
Author: Dr. Braide Honest | Knife Blog Writer & Knife Enthusiast | Connect with me on LinkedIn
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Most injuries were inflicted with cheap knives costing between €15 and €50. Young offenders, in particular, can easily afford them. Collectible knives, by contrast, start at around €500. Germany’s knife laws are little more than a sedative for a paranoid segment of society and do nothing for anyone’s safety. Serious collectors and knife enthusiasts have been pushed into a criminal corner and stigmatized.
Anyone who intends to harm someone with a knife doesn’t care about regulations or bans—he simply stabs. Law-makers do whatever they think is best for their own careers. The actual safety of the individual is irrelevant to them—unless it concerns their own. That’s why quite a few of them hold gun permits that let them carry loaded firearms concealed, everywhere and at all times.
German citizens have been successfully disarmed and left defenseless. The few freedoms we still have are being steadily chipped away. In my homeland, illegal possession once carried the death penalty, and it was enforced often enough; with a bit of luck you might “only” face several years in prison. That continued until Poland became independent. Polish gun law is now geared toward citizens with clean records, which is a real thorn in Brussels’ side. From the outset there was pressure on Poland and the Czech Republic, and some freedoms were clawed back.
Germany has by far the most idiotic gun law in Europe, and it isn’t getting better—quite the opposite. Another change is coming, and the public lets it happen. Nobody takes to the streets. As some still recall, this nonsense began in 1973 and no one did a thing. Then the Weapons Act was catapulted from regulatory law into police law, and no one fought back. The few who did were dismissed as crazy gun nuts you couldn’t trust.
The screw keeps turning. The dogs bark, but the caravan moves on. Good luck to all of you in the future—our enemies will be delighted.
For your information: ALL knives, regardless of their type, are prohibited in France for carrying or transporting (no matter the size, mechanism, etc.).
Recently purchased a “DOUG RITTER” BY Hogue Auto
Great!!!
I appreciate and applaud Doug’s relentless fight to own knives legally
Also you organization is an invaluable resource of recent and helpful information
PLEASE KEEP ME INFORMED OF ALL YOUR GOINGS ON
RESPECTFULLY
Really insightful article on the legalities surrounding gravity knives. I’ve always wondered why they faced such strict regulations compared to other types of folding knives. The history and politics behind it are truly intriguing. Does anyone know if there are movements or petitions to re-evaluate these laws?
Hi Dear! What is the most forbidden knife? Which knife is considered the most prohibited or restricted in many jurisdictions around the world?
The concept of a “most forbidden” knife can be somewhat subjective, as knife laws vary significantly across countries and even within regions of those countries. However, based on widespread restrictions and regulations, a few types of knives often face prohibitions or stringent controls:
Switchblades/Automatic Knives: These are knives that open automatically at the press of a button or mechanism. Many jurisdictions around the world ban or heavily regulate the possession, sale, or carry of switchblades due to concerns about their rapid deployment.
Balisong/Butterfly Knives: These are folding pocket knives with two handles that counter-rotate around the tang. When closed, the blade is concealed within grooves in the handles. Due to their flashy opening technique and potential for rapid deployment, many places prohibit or restrict them.
Gravity Knives: As previously mentioned, gravity knives have faced prohibitions in many jurisdictions, mainly due to concerns similar to those regarding switchblades.
Push Daggers: These knives have a T-shaped design, where the blade comes out perpendicular from the handle and is held by the fist. They’re designed primarily for stabbing and are restricted in many places.
Concealed/Disguised Knives: These are knives hidden within everyday objects such as pens, belts, or canes. Their concealed nature often leads to their prohibition in many jurisdictions because they can be carried without detection.
Dirks and Daggers: These are typically double-edged stabbing tools. Some places, especially within the United States, have restrictions on carrying fixed-blade knives like dirks and daggers concealed on one’s person.
It’s essential to note that cultural perceptions, historical incidents, and regional concerns can influence the legal status of various knife types. For instance, in the UK, there’s a particular concern about knives used in violent crimes, leading to stricter knife carry laws in general.
Always consult local laws and regulations if you are considering owning or carrying a knife, especially when traveling. Even within countries, laws can differ significantly from one region to another.