{"id":318,"date":"2024-06-17T15:26:38","date_gmt":"2024-06-17T14:26:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.citrus-lime.com\/crgh\/?p=318"},"modified":"2026-03-03T11:08:52","modified_gmt":"2026-03-03T11:08:52","slug":"you-need-to-know-uk-knife-laws-helpful-bushcraft-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.citrus-lime.com\/crgh\/2024\/06\/17\/you-need-to-know-uk-knife-laws-helpful-bushcraft-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"You Need To Know UK Knife Laws: Helpful Bushcraft Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Updated November 202<\/strong>5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This content was reviewed and updated in November 2025 with input from our outdoor specialists, based on publicly available UK government guidance. It is for general information only and not legal advice \u2014 always check the latest rules on gov.uk or speak to a solicitor if you\u2019re unsure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By Crib Goch Outdoor <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Navigating UK knife laws can feel confusing, especially for bushcraft enthusiasts, outdoor workers, and anyone buying or selling knives. At Crib Goch Outdoor, we believe it\u2019s essential for our customers to understand these regulations to ensure safety and compliance. This guide offers an updated overview of the current UK laws around buying, selling, owning, and carrying knives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Bushcraft<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Selling, Buying, and Carrying Knives in the UK<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Penalties for Illegal Carrying<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Carrying a knife or offensive weapon illegally can result in serious consequences.
The maximum penalty for an adult<\/strong> convicted of illegally carrying a knife in public is up to 4 years in prison<\/strong>, an unlimited fine<\/strong>, or both<\/strong>, depending on the circumstances of the offence. Repeat offenders are far more likely to receive a custodial sentence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Basic Laws on Knives and Weapons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Using any<\/strong> knife or weapon in a threatening way is always illegal. Firearms and shotgun rules are covered by different legislation and are not included in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Knife<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Key Regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
    \n
  1. Carrying Knives in Public:<\/strong> It is illegal to carry most knives in a public place without a \u201cgood reason or lawful authority.\u201d<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Selling Knives:<\/strong> It is generally illegal to sell knives or other bladed articles to anyone under 18<\/strong>. (A limited exception applies in Scotland for certain domestic cutlery.<\/em>)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Exceptions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    The only type of knife that can typically be carried in public without a specific good reason<\/strong> is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n