Are Survival Knives Legal in the UK? What to Know for Your Camping Trip
, by Alex Newman, 12 min reading time
Are survival knives legal in the UK? Learn about UK knife laws, rules, & regulations for camping knives with Wood To Water.
While survival knives are legal in the UK, restrictions apply, including where and who can carry them. We’ve answered your question on whether survival knives are legal in the UK and provided some important information you need to know.
In This Guide:
We know just how useful survival knives can be when you're out in the wilderness. Whether you want to cut plants for kindling or bedding, or you're trying to open a can of food, a good survival knife can be invaluable.
But before you purchase one, it's important to understand the laws surrounding the possession and use of knives in the UK.
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Are Survival Knives Legal for Camping? At a Glance: Survival knives are legal in the UK, but strict conditions apply. Carrying a knife in public without a valid reason is illegal, except for folding pocket knives with blades under 3 inches. For camping or outdoor activities, you must provide a legitimate purpose for possession. Use and storage should remain responsible to avoid misuse. Always check local regulations and ensure compliance to stay within the law and avoid facing penalties. |
What Defines a Survival Knife?
A survival or bushcraft knife typically has a fixed blade with serrated edges and is designed for use in extreme outdoor situations. They usually range from 5-10 inches long and can come with additional features such as fire starters, compasses, or sharpeners.
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Some popular types of survival knives include: The Bowie knife Hunting knife Kukri knife |
Carrying Knives & Weapons — Basic Laws
In the United Kingdom, the law governing possession and use of knives falls under the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and the Offensive Weapons Act 2019.
Under these laws, it's illegal to carry a knife in public without a valid reason or lawful authority. The maximum penalty for carrying an offensive weapon is four years in prison.
A knife can be considered an offensive weapon if it's used to threaten, harm or injure someone, regardless of its design or size. It also includes any object adapted for causing injury.
1. Criminal Justice Act 1988, Section 139
The Criminal Justice Act 1988, Section 139 states that it's an offence to carry a bladed or pointed article in a public place without good reason or lawful authority.
This law also applies to knives kept for camping, fishing, or other outdoor activities.
2. Offensive Weapons Act 2019
The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 prohibits possession of certain dangerous weapons in public places. This includes zombie knives, knuckle dusters, and flick knives with blades over 3 inches long.
3. Recent Updates: Offensive Weapons Act (Amendment) 2023
In 2023, the government made some updates to the Offensive Weapons Act with the Offensive Weapons Act (Amendment) 2023. The amendment includes a ban on the possession of certain weapons, such as flick knives or gravity knives.
What is Classed as a "Good Reason" Under UK Knife Law?
Under UK knife law, a "good reason" for carrying a knife typically relates to lawful purposes where the possession of a blade is necessary or justified.
Examples of good reasons might include
- Carrying a knife for work purposes, such as a tradesperson using a tool for their job
- Recreational activities like camping or fishing where a knife is required for practical use
- Carrying a blade as part of a national costume or for use in a legitimate display, demonstration, or collection
However, it is important to note that the burden of proof lies with the individual to demonstrate the necessity and legality of carrying the knife.
| Note: Having just purchased a knife is also counted as a valid reason for being in possession of one, but make sure you retain proof of purchase and keep the blade in its packaging until you get home. |
Guidelines for Camping & Outdoor Activities
When it comes to camping and outdoor activities, carrying a knife can be essential for practical tasks such as food preparation, cutting ropes, or crafting tools. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the knife you carry complies with the law.
Generally, folding knives with a blade length of less than 3 inches (7.62 cm) are permitted, provided they do not lock into place.
For larger knives, such as fixed-blade knives or a multi-tool knife, you must demonstrate a clear and legitimate reason for carrying them, such as forming part of an outdoor survival kit or specific camping needs.
It is important to always handle knives responsibly and store them securely during transport to avoid accidental harm or causing alarm to others.
Misuse of knives, even when intended for camping purposes, can lead to legal consequences.
Carrying your survival blade in a sheath is the ideal way to keep you and others safe while you travel to your camp location. Shop our range of knife sheaths online.
Are Locking Knives & Fixed Blades Legal for Camping?
In the UK, you can’t carry locking knives or fixed-blade knives in public without a good reason. Locking knives are folding knives that lock when open, and fixed-blade knives don’t fold at all.
Both are seen as more dangerous, so the rules are stricter. If you need to carry one, like for work, fishing, camping, or a specific reason, you’ll need to justify it if someone asks.
We recommend sticking to handy multi-tools to keep things legal and convenient. Shop our range online.
Are Axes, Saws, Machetes, & Other Outdoor Knives Legal?
There are many types of bladed articles that can be useful when camping, especially if you're wild camping or embarking on a longer survival adventure. So, what's the law surrounding larger blades that you might need for camping?
Axes & Hatchets
Axes and hatchets can be okay to carry in the UK for camping, but it really depends on the situation, your intent, and how you’re transporting them.
If you’re using an axe or hatchet for something legit, like chopping firewood while camping, that’s usually a reasonable excuse.
But carrying one around in public without a good reason could land you in trouble, as it might be seen as an offensive weapon.
To stay on the safe side, keep it securely stored — like in your car or backpack — and avoid carrying it openly where it might worry people.
If the authorities ask, just be ready to explain that you’re using it for a practical, lawful purpose related to your camping trip. Simple as that!
Saws (Inc. Bushcraft & Folding Saws)
When it comes to saws, like bushcraft or folding saws, the rules in the UK are pretty similar to those for axes or hatchets.
If you’re bringing a saw for camping, it’s usually fine as long as you have a good reason and use it sensibly.
For example, taking a folding saw to cut large wood logs at your campsite is generally seen as a valid excuse.
Machetes
In the UK, machetes are pretty tightly regulated because of their size and potential as a weapon.
Generally, we'd recommend steering clear of machetes as a camping tool. Not only could you get into trouble, but they're also impractical and cumbersome.
What Should You Not Carry When Camping?
Carrying items such as large knives, machetes, or other blades without a valid reason is strongly advised against.
Weapons like butterfly knives, flick knives, and disguised blades are outright illegal in the UK.
Carrying tools or blades in public for reasons unrelated to their intended use can land you in trouble with the law.
It's always best to stick to smaller bushcraft tools that are both practical and permissible for your outdoor activities.
Practical Advice for Carrying & Using Outdoor Cutting Tools Legally
When camping, carrying and using a survival knife legally requires careful consideration to ensure compliance with UK laws. Here are our practical tips for making carrying a camping knife to your camp less stressful!
- Always ensure the knife you bring is appropriate for camping activities, such as food preparation or cutting ropes, and
- Avoid carrying knives with locking mechanisms or fixed blades unless absolutely necessary
- Keep the knife stored securely when not in use, such as in your backpack or camping gear, rather than carrying it openly.
- Be prepared to explain its purpose clearly if questioned by authorities, emphasising its use for legitimate camping needs.
- Use the knife responsibly — avoid any actions that might be perceived as threatening or reckless
We also recommend always bringing a complete first aid kit with you when you’re using a survival knife in the wilderness. No matter how skilled you are, accidents can still happen, and it’s best to be prepared!
Conclusion: Using Camping Knives Within the UK
Please note it is entirely your or the user's responsibility to ensure that any knives in your possession are used safely and legally while you’re camping within the UK. Always do your research and be aware of local laws and regulations regarding knife possession and usage.
And remember, a knife is a tool, not a weapon. Use it responsibly and for its intended purpose to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for yourself and others around you.
This article is a general guide and does not constitute legal advice. Always check local laws and regulations before purchasing or carrying any knives.
FAQs
Are Knives Legal for Bushcraft?
Yes, knives are legal for bushcraft in the UK if they comply with weapon laws. Ensure the knife is non-locking with a blade under three inches, and have a valid reason for carrying a larger, lockable blade.
Do Campers & Hikers Have Special Dispensation to Carry Camping Knives?
No, campers and hikers do not have special dispensation to carry camping knives. They must adhere to UK knife laws, ensuring the knife is appropriate, legal, and its use justifiable, such as for outdoor activities or survival purposes.
What Type of Knife is Best For Camping?
A fixed-blade knife is best for camping due to its durability and versatility. It should have a comfortable grip and be suitable for tasks like food preparation, wood carving, and fire starting. However, you still need to ensure it complies with local laws.
What Can Knives Be Used for When Camping?
Knives can be used for a variety of camping tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope or cord, carving, fire starting, and other survival activities.
Always check the knife is suitable for these tasks and complies with local regulations before heading out.
Can You Use a Knife for Camping Under 18?
In the UK, individuals under 18 can use a knife for camping if supervised by an adult.
Ensure the knife is legal and appropriate for camping tasks, and always follow local laws and guidelines regarding knife use. Anyone under 18 shouldn’t be carrying a knife to the campsite and cannot legally purchase a knife.
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