How legal is it to carry a knife in Norway?
You've packed your bag and are ready to go. But before you leave, you find yourself wondering – what exactly happened to that knife? Should you leave it dangling from your belt in its sheath when you take the bus out to the edge of the forest?
The good thing is that if you're going out into the woods hunting or working, you're welcome to carry a knife. But there are some rules that are important to follow – unless you want your knife confiscated and a hefty fine.
What does the law say?
Section 189 of the Penal Code imposes a general ban on carrying weapons in public. This means that – in general – it is not allowed to move around among people with a knife or other weapon, as long as it is capable of harming others. This is punishable by up to 1 year in prison (so it is important to be careful here!) or a fine.
Exception
That said, fortunately, you don't necessarily have to put your dream of a traditional Norwegian national costume knife or a carving knife on the shelf. The general law provides exceptions for the use of knives for work, outdoor activities and so-called honorable purposes.
This means that if you are working as a carpenter, or are going to hack your way to a proper fire, you can safely carry the knife on you. It is still recommended to keep it packed in public places, so as not to spread unnecessary fear. If you are going to the hairdresser, for example, you should probably not bring your work tool with you!
If you want to use a knife for cultural purposes, such as wearing a traditional Norwegian national costume, this falls under honorable purposes and is therefore legal.
It must be mentioned that carrying a knife for self-defense not falls under the exceptions to the Criminal Code, and should therefore be absolutely avoided.
Illegal knives
Even if you use a knife for the right purposes, whether it's on a job assignment or building a campfire, it's important to know which knives you are actually allowed to use.
If the knives you are interested in are categorized as "assault knives", it is important to know that these are illegal to buy, sell, and own. Even if you do not use them in public, they are illegal to have in your home, and if they are discovered at customs, you may risk being reported for this.
These knives include switchblades, stilettos, batangas (also known as butterfly knives) and machetes. Because they are considered combat weapons, they are not used for normal work or outdoor activities, and therefore do not fall under the exceptions to the Criminal Code.
Legal knives
Anything that is considered a utility knife is permitted to be carried under the Criminal Code exemption. This could include pocket knives, fishing knives, butter knives and multi-tools. It is also permitted to own and carry training knives, as long as they are not sharp and can hurt someone. However, it is best to keep them out of sight in public, so as not to cause a disturbance.
Out for a walk?
Now that you’re sure you’re carrying the right knife for the right purpose, it’s not just about jumping on the first plane to go on an adventure. If you want to take your knife with you on a plane, it’s best to be on the safe side and send it in your checked luggage, as long as it’s a legal knife. If you want to send it in your carry-on, it can’t be longer than 6 centimeters. This also applies to kitchen scissors!
Now you're ready to pick, gut and wear as much bunad as you can handle, and you can find all the knives and accessories you need at game-on.no!
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