Yes, butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal to own and carry in Ohio under state law, provided they are not used or intended for criminal purposes.
Balinsongs are not classified as “deadly weapons” under Ohio Revised Code § 2923.11, nor are they explicitly banned under municipal ordinances in major cities like Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati. However, local law enforcement retains discretion to confiscate knives deemed dangerous if carried with intent to harm. Recent 2026 compliance shifts in Ohio’s knife legislation emphasize stricter enforcement of concealed carry laws, particularly for blades exceeding 2.5 inches, though balisongs typically fall below this threshold.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Ohio
- Ownership: No state permit is required to purchase or possess a balisong in Ohio. Private sales and online purchases are unrestricted.
- Carry Laws: Open carry is permitted, but concealed carry may violate local ordinances if the knife is deemed a “dangerous ordinance” under municipal codes (e.g., Cleveland’s Municipal Code § 627.03).
- Intent-Based Enforcement: Possession alone is legal, but carrying a balisong in a manner suggesting intent to use it as a weapon (e.g., during a confrontation) can lead to charges under Ohio’s aggravated assault statutes.