Knives and pepper spray in Spain (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Spain prohibits carrying bladed weapons outside the home, workplace and sports activities. Non-automatic knives over 11 cm and unapproved defence sprays are prohibited.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Folding pocket knivesCarrying in public places | Carrying a bladed weapon (arma blanca), especially a pointed one, outside the home, workplace or related sports activity is prohibited. Non-automatic knives with a blade over 11 cm are banned from sale, possession and use, except at home for ornament or collection. [1] |
| Locking or one-handed knivesCarrying in public places | Automatic knives (navajas automáticas) are prohibited weapons. The articles checked do not use locking or one-handed opening as a criterion. [1] |
| Fixed-blade knivesCarrying in public places | Daggers of any kind are prohibited weapons, defined as double-edged pointed blades shorter than 11 cm. Carrying other bladed weapons outside the home, workplace or sports activity is prohibited. [1] |
| Pepper sprayCarrying in public places | Personal-defence sprays and other weapons that discharge gases or aerosols are prohibited, except sprays approved by the Ministry of Health, which may be sold in gunsmiths to adults with identity documents. [1] |
| Exceptions and legitimate reasonsCarrying in public places | The ban on carrying does not cover the home, the workplace or the related sports activities. The authorities decide in each case whether the carrier needs the weapon. [1] |
Notes
- The Regulation does not list which everyday knives count as bladed weapons. The authorities judge each case.
Sources
- Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado: Real Decreto 137/1993, de 29 de enero, por el que se aprueba el Reglamento de Armas (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.