The idea of inherent and inalienable rights are recognized by the Constitution of the State of Arkansas, this also takes in the freedom and right of people to bear arms.
All men have particular inherent and inalienable rights, since all men are created the same, that being equally free and independent; such rights include both the enjoyment and defense of liberty and life; the right to acquire property and reputation as well as the right to possess and defend such; the right to pursue one’s own happiness. For such rights to be secured, governments of men are formed, these government derives their powers from the agreement and consent of those over whom they govern. AR Canst.
Art. 2, § 2
For the purpose of their common defense, State citizens have the right to possess and bear arms.
AR Canst. Art. 2, § 5
Chapter 72 (Weapons) and Title 5 (Criminal Offenses) outlines the Arkansas sate statutes with regard to weapons.
Forbidden Items:
The Arkansas law does not state any knives or edged arms as being forbidden items.
Notes On Sale/Transfer:
In Arkansas, prohibitions do no exist for the sale of edged arms or knives. Selling a “deadly weapon” to an underage individual who does not have the permission of their parent or guardian is prohibited. § 5-73-109.
Under the weapon carry statute, the term “deadly weapon” is not defined, however, “knife” has the meaning of a bladed hand instrument which is three (3) inches in length or longer and has the capability to cause death or significant physical harm by a cutting or stabbing action. § 5-73-120(a)(4).
Notes On Concealment/Carrying:
The matter of concealment is not an issue. The crucial element is the unlawful intent. The possession or carrying of a knife on or around one’s person with the intent of unlawful use is considered an offense.
(a)The offense of carrying a weapon is committed when a person is in possession of a knife, club or handgun, on or around one’s person, in a vehicle which they are an occupant of, or in a place at their ready disposal and have the intent to use the knife, club or handgun unlawfully as a weapon.
(b) Related to this section:
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(4) “Knife” has the meaning of a bladed hand instrument which is three (3) inches in length or longer and has the capability to cause death or significant physical harm by a cutting or stabbing action, this includes a cane, a razor, an ice pick, a throwing star, a butterfly knife, a switchblade knife, a dirk, a sword or a spear.
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§ 5-73-120
Notes On Critical Dimensions:
Within the carrying with intent statute, this applies to blades which are three inches in length or longer.
Statement Preemption:
This applies to knives, but not to firearms. § 14-54-1411
Notes On Schools: Carrying deadly weapons in buildings or facilities which are publicly-owned is not allowed.
This information that is presented as a brief description of the laws and not as any kind of legal advice. aStraightArrow will not and cannot be a legal service provider. The use of the site does not create any sort of client/lawyer relationship. The knife laws are interpreted differently by prosecuting attorneys, enforcement officers, and judges. aStraightArrow suggests you consult legal counsel for further guidance.