Knives and pepper spray in the United Kingdom (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: In England and Wales a non-locking folding knife with a cutting edge of 3 inches or less may be carried. Other bladed articles need good reason, and pepper spray is a prohibited weapon.

RuleWhat applies
Folding pocket knivesCarrying in public places; England and WalesA folding pocketknife whose cutting edge is 3 inches (7.62 cm) or shorter and which does not lock may be carried in public. A longer cutting edge is an offence without good reason or lawful authority. [1]
Locking or one-handed knivesCarrying in public places; England and WalesLock knives (folding knives with a button, spring or catch) do not fall under the folding pocketknife exception. Carrying one in public needs good reason. [2]
Fixed-blade knivesCarrying in public places; England and WalesAny article with a blade or sharp point, other than a folding pocketknife, is covered. Carrying one in public is an offence without good reason or lawful authority. [1]
Pepper sprayCarrying in public places; Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales)A weapon designed or adapted to discharge any noxious liquid, gas or other thing is a prohibited weapon under the Firearms Act 1968. [3]
Exceptions and legitimate reasonsCarrying in public places; England and WalesIt is a defence to prove good reason or lawful authority, for example use at work, religious reasons or national costume. A court decides whether the reason is good. [1]

Notes

  • Applies in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own laws, which were not checked here.
  • The Act does not define a locking knife. The GOV.UK guidance puts folding knives with a locking button, spring or catch outside the exception.
  • Section 5 extends to England, Wales and Scotland. Northern Ireland has its own law.

Sources

  1. legislation.gov.uk: Criminal Justice Act 1988, section 139 – Offence of having article with blade or point in public place (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. GOV.UK: Selling, buying and carrying knives and weapons (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. legislation.gov.uk: Firearms Act 1968, section 5 – Weapons subject to general prohibition (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.