Best California Legal Automatics - Top California Legal Auto Knives (2024)

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Written by Blade HQ Staff Writer Logan Rainey on 02/12/2020

Best California Legal Automatics - Top California Legal Auto Knives (1)

When it comes to automatic knives, there are some places that are mucheasier to own and use one than others. Here in Utah, there are few if anylaws regarding automatic knives giving us the privilege of owning and usingmany great knives. California, however, is one of those places wherecarrying automatic folding knives is met with restrictions and lawsgoverning what can and can’t be in your pocket. This list covers a few ofour favorite, and arguably the best, California Legal Automatic Knives.

Check out our top 7 California Legal Autos below. Catch a review from one ofour beloved customers at the end of each breakdown.

1. Kershaw Launch 4

When it comes to short blade knives, there are few as fun to use and easy tocarry as the Kershaw Launch 4. Its overall size, aluminum construction andsnappy push-button automatic action make it a perfect everyday carry knife.These little guys are available in many different color combos so you canfind one that fits your needs and style. Check out our comprehensiveLaunch 4 reviewto see what makes this series so great.

  • Overall Length: 5.10”
  • Blade Length: 1.90”
  • Blade Material: CPM-154
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock


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Ricardo A. says...

"This is the closest you’ll get to a legal switchblade in CA! You could geta OFT, but personally I think this design is a lot better than any other OTFI’ve seen. Amazing action good steel overall amazing knife."

2. Boker Kompakt

If you’ve been looking to add a short blade automatic knife to your EDCrotation or collection, it doesn’t get much better than the Boker Kompaktdesigned by Jesper Voxnaes. This knife has amazing ergonomics and feelsgreat in the hand. Its 1.875” California legal, drop-point blade is easy tocontrol and maintain. This knife features a durable aluminum handle withunique blue inlays and a blue back spacer. A deep carry pocket clip roundsout this feature rich little knife.

  • Overall Length: 5.25”
  • Blade Length: 1.875”
  • Blade Material: AUS-8
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock

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David K. says...

"This is a very nice little knife. Perfect size to fit in the little pocketin my jeans pocket. Action works very smooth and snaps open quickly. Highlyrecommend."

3. Kershaw Launch 10

Riding on the coattails of the Kershaw Launch 4, the Kershaw Launch 10brings modern styling and unique design to Kershaw’s Launch Series. TheKershaw Launch 10 features a California legal hawkbill blade with a snappypush-button automatic action. Its compact design makes it great for everydaycarry and suitable for common tasks. A deep carry pocket clip helps keep theknife secure and discreet in pocket.

  • Overall Length: 5.20”
  • Blade Length: 1.90”
  • Blade Material: CPM-154
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock

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Thomas B. says...

"I own over 100 knives and always carry a small auto, and from now on thisis it. It is very light,opens quick and is wicked sharp.I really like thehawkbill it reminds me of my Dad's old hawkbill that he used everyday. Thislittle knife cuts like a Big Boy. Buy it you won't regret it!"

4. Protech Sprint

The Sprint from Protech is a snappy, California Legal automatic knife thatlooks as great as it performs! This awesome short blade knife features alightweight aluminum handle, snazzy mother of pearl inlay button, and acrazy sharp CPM-S35VN blade. It’s the perfect size for everyday carry andfeels great in hand.

  • Overall Length: 5.00”
  • Blade Length: 1.95”
  • Blade Material: CPM-S35VN
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock

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Garrison E. says...

"Awesome knife! It was perfect for a California legal auto knife! Action wassmooth and fast, and blade came very sharp. I would highly recommend thisknife."

5. Hogue CA Legal AO1 Microswitch

The Hogue A01 Microswitch California legal automatic is a tough, durable andcomfortable EDC knife. It combines a satisfying automatic action with asturdy plunge lock for secure blade lock up making it both reliable and easyto use. A stainless-steel pocket clip and stylized back spacer finish offthe outstanding design. This California legal automatic knife is an amazingoption if you like rugged and well-built knives.

  • Overall Length: 5.875”
  • Blade Length: 1.875”
  • Blade Material: CPM-154
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock w/ Safety Switch

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William A. says…

"This little knife is amazing and it will grow on you. It might look alittle odd but get it in your hands and you won’t put it down. Also has abottle opener, glass breaker and comes in a nice pouch."

6. Benchmade Impel

The Lerch designed Benchmade Impel 3150BK is an incredible gentleman’sautomatic folding knife. This push button, California legal automaticfeatures a sleek aluminum handle with G-10 inlays, sturdy pocket clip and asafety switch for extra security. The clip-point blade is made from premiumS30V stainless-steel giving it both durability and excellent edge retention.Impel is an amazing California legal automatic for anyone looking for abeautiful knife that won’t break the bank.

  • Overall Length: 5.03”
  • Blade Length: 1.98”
  • Blade Material: CPM-S30V
  • Handle Material: Aluminum/G-10
  • Locking Mechanism: Plunge Lock w/ Safety Switch

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David B. says...

"Love this knife. Perfect for the everyday pocket use. Quality is top notch.Automatic works like a dream."

7. Microtech Exocet

Chances are you probably carry a wallet and a knife every day. The MicrotechExocet was designed with utility and convenience in mind by combining adouble-action OTF knife with a money clip. The Exocet’s unique design makesit one of the best ways to minimize how much stuff you need to carry whilemaintaining the ability to take care of all your cutting and slicing needswhen they arise.

  • Overall Length: 5.625”
  • Blade Length: 1.98”
  • Blade Material: CTS-204P
  • Handle Material: Aluminum
  • Locking Mechanism: D/A OTF


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Henry T. says...

"High quality blade that's Cali legal. I use it as a money clip and isperfect for that. Sharp blade that's great for basic utilitarian tasks.Highly recommend this for high-end money clip with Microtech attitude."

Conclusion

Best California Legal Automatics - Top California Legal Auto Knives (24)

If you live in the beautiful state of California and you love knives, thislist might be just what you need to get into automatic knives withoutputting yourself at risk of legal trouble. Any of these knives is a greataddition to any collection whether you live in California or not. They areall well made and ready for anything you throw at them.

While these are our top California Legal Auto recommendations, Blade HQhas got way more knives than the ones featured here. Leave a review ofyour favorite and follow us onInstagram,Facebook, andTwitterfor all your future knife updates.

Learn More

Still deciding? Catch an overview of one of the most popular CaliforniaLegal Autos out there: the Kershaw Launch 4. Watch it below!

Other Best Knife Guides

Still in that information gathering phase? We've got a whole bunch morelists of all the Best Knives! Happy hunting and may you find that onespecial knife of your dreams!

Top EDC EssentialsEveryday must have'sBest Traditional Pocket KnivesTop 9 traditionals
Best Short Blade KnivesShort and simpleBest Slim KnivesPocket knives for any pocketBest EDC KnivesEDC knife winners
Kershaw Launch 4 ReviewSnappy, compact, durableBest Knife SharpenersTop sharpening systems

*Customer reviews may be condensed for clarity and edited for grammaticalerrors. You know we have to make our high school English teacher proud.Check product listings for current pricing.

Best California Legal Automatics - Top California Legal Auto Knives (2024)

FAQs

What automatic knives are legal in California? ›

Switchblades of less than 2 inches are legal to carry in California, as long as they are not concealed. However, they are illegal when the blade is 2 inches or longer. These knives are also known as 'pushbutton knives' 'and ejector knives'.

Can you buy automatic knives online in California? ›

Federal law prohibits the shipment of 'injurious articles'—which includes automatic knives. The penalty for breaking this law is a fine or imprisonment for not more than one year. However, there is no federal restriction on shipment of automatic knives by common/contract carriers, such as FedEx and UPS.

Is Kershaw launch 10 legal in California? ›

The Kershaw Launch 10 features a California legal hawkbill blade with a snappy push-button automatic action. Its compact design makes it great for everyday carry and suitable for common tasks.

Are Kershaw automatic knives legal? ›

The Kershaw Launch 4 knife is a California-legal automatic with a ridiculously fast action. Its symmetry in design, both handle and blade, adds distinction. Following the tradition of its predecessors, the Launch 4 has a bulls-eye pattern firing button and a tip-up carry pocket clip.

Can I carry a knife in my car in California? ›

There are two important factors when it comes to possessing and carrying knives in California: (1) whether the type of knife is legal or restricted and (2) the open carry law. In California, it is legal to buy, own, transport, and carry any knife that is not restricted.

Are spring loaded knives illegal in California? ›

A spring assisted knife is legal in California as long as it “opens with one hand utilizing thumb pressure applied solely to the blade of the knife or a thumb stud attached to the blade, provided that the knife has a detent or other mechanism that provides resistance that must be overcome in opening the blade, or that ...

Who makes the best switchblade? ›

Best Switchblades & Automatic Knives: 2021
  • Best Rescue Auto: Benchmade Triage.
  • Best Side-Switch OTF: Microtech Combat Troodon.
  • Best Cover-Switch OTF: Benchmade Infidel.
  • Best Lightweight OTF: Hogue Compound.
  • Best CA-Compliant OTF: Microtech Exocet.
  • Best CA-Compliant Folding Auto: Hogue A01-Microswitch.

Are Protech knives legal in California? ›

The Protech Knives Sprint 2907 is a California Legal automatic knife that is one of the lightest and thinnest automatic knives available. This is a high performance Gentleman's automatic that carries like a feather and performs like a razor.

Can you own a switchblade in California in your home? ›

California Penal Code 21510 PC makes it a crime to carry, possess in public, sell or give away a switchblade. A conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by probation, fines of up to $1000.00, and up to 6 months in county jail.

Is the Kershaw launch 4 legal in California? ›

A Kershaw Launch 4 California Legal Knife (1.9″ Black) 7500BLK New in Box. For 2016, we made something special for our neighbors to the south. And since we're in Oregon, of course we mean California. So for you, California—and for anyone who prefers a shorter-bladed auto—we made the Launch 4.

What is the difference between spring assisted and switchblade? ›

An assisted opening knife, sometimes called a spring-assisted knife, is a knife that springs open only after the blade is slightly pushed open with force. Unlike the switchblade, nothing holds down the assisted opening knife when it's in the closed position.

Are butterfly knives legal in California? ›

In California, balisong/switchblade knives are legal to own, buy, sell, and transport if the length of the blade is not more than 2 inches. If the length of the blade is more than 2 inches they are illegal to buy, sell, transfer, or possess in public although it is legal to possess one if kept at home.

Are gravity knives illegal in California? ›

In California, switchblades with blades of two inches or longer are illegal. Fixed-blade knives with blades of two-and-a-half inches or longer are illegal on college/university/school premises. And any knife with a blade longer than four inches is illegal in a public building.

Why are automatic knives illegal? ›

Newspapers ran embellished stories about gang violence and switchblade use. State legislatures started looking into the “issue,” and New York became the first state to ban automatic knives in 1954.

What is dirk knife? ›

A dirk or dagger is a knife or other instrument with or without a handguard that is capable of ready use as a stabbing weapon that may inflict great bodily injury or death. Most pocketknives and folding knives are not considered to be dirks or daggers unless the blade of the knife is exposed and locked into position.

What size blade is legal in California? ›

Under California Penal Code Section 17235, all folding knives are legal in the state and can be concealed if they are in the folded position. There is no restriction on the blade length when it comes to owning or possessing a folding knife.

What size pocket knife is legal in California? ›

California Fixed Blade Knife Laws

Pocket knives under 2 inches are generally legal without any restrictions. Other types of fixed blade knives like Dirks and Daggers are heavily restricted with regards to where and how they can be carried, but both types are still legal to own.

Should I keep a knife in my car? ›

Generally, you can carry utility knives, swiss army knives, multi-tools that have a knife, or any knife that is shorter than 2.5 inches almost anywhere in the United States. Even so, concealing it in your car or your person is a different story and might require you to have the necessary permits.

Are double sided blades illegal in California? ›

It is not legal to conceal carry a dagger or other double-edged knife. This is per California Penal Code Sect. 21310 PC. While it seems a bit foolish to us, the law allows someone to openly carry a dagger.

Where are Viper Tec knives made? ›

Proudly hand assembled in the USA. All Viper Tec OTF are assembled prior to shipping, please allow 3-5 business processing days prior to shipment.

What is the largest knife you can carry? ›

Knives that are usually legal to carry almost anywhere include multi-tool devices, Swiss Army knives, and utility knives, and knives with blades that are shorter than 2.5 inches.

Where are Protech knives made? ›

The high tech components are assembled and hand fit by dedicated and caring craftsmen here in our Santa Fe Springs, California facility. We manufacture small batches of our knives so that we can take the time to individually hand fit and finish each knife to a level rarely seen in a factory knife.

Are Bowie knives legal in California? ›

California. In California, the knife laws are considered some of the strictest in the country. Throughout the state, it is considered legal to purchase and carry any knife under two inches in length. Some other knives that are legal within the state include bowie knives and large knives (no restriction in size).

Can you carry a sword in California? ›

Swords – California

In California, any fixed blade must be sheathed. But not only is it legal to openly carry a sheathed sword, it's the law. Any kind of concealment for bladed weapons is a misdemeanor. Bladed weapons in most states where they are legal to carry, are usually illegal if they're longer than five inches.

Is CPM 154 a super steel? ›

What is CPM 154 Steel? CPM 154 is high-end stainless steel (CPM-manufactured version of Crucible's standard 154 CM), high in Carbin, Chromium, and Molybdenum and offers a great balance between wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and toughness.

Are spring assisted knives considered automatic? ›

A spring-assisted knife is a knife that when you push on the thumb stud to open it a spring takes over and propels the blade open. Spring-assisted knives make a great alternative to automatic knives. A Spring / Torsion assisted knife is a type of knife which uses a spring assisted mechanism behind the blade.

Are assisted opening knives considered automatic knives? ›

The difference is important legally; because the blade does not open simply "by the push of a button or by force of gravity" the assisted-opening knife is typically not considered a switchblade, and may escape the restrictions applying to those in many places.

What are automatic knives called? ›

A switchblade (aka switch knife, automatic knife, pushbutton knife, ejector knife, flick knife, flick blade, or spring knife (Sprenger, Springer) is a type of knife with a sliding or pivoting blade contained in the handle which is extended automatically by a spring when a button, lever, or switch on the handle or ...

Is the Kershaw launch 4 legal in California? ›

A Kershaw Launch 4 California Legal Knife (1.9″ Black) 7500BLK New in Box. For 2016, we made something special for our neighbors to the south. And since we're in Oregon, of course we mean California. So for you, California—and for anyone who prefers a shorter-bladed auto—we made the Launch 4.

Can I have a switchblade in my home in California? ›

California Penal Code 21510 PC makes it a crime to carry, possess in public, sell or give away a switchblade. A conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by probation, fines of up to $1000.00, and up to 6 months in county jail.

Is the Microtech UTX 70 California legal? ›

Microtech has released a California legal version of their popular UTX-70 series with a sub-2" blade. The UTX70 fires in and out automatically via the sliding firing button on the knife's right side. Handle is anodized black with bead blast finished hardware and a tip-down carry pocket clip.

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