Yes, butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in Oregon under state law, but local ordinances and federal restrictions may apply.
Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 166.240 permits the possession, manufacture, and sale of balisongs, classifying them as non-restricted knives. However, cities like Portland and Eugene impose additional prohibitions, including bans on concealed carry in public spaces. Federal law further restricts balisongs with blades over 2.5 inches in interstate commerce, though intrastate possession remains unaffected. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to standardize statewide regulations, potentially altering local enforcement.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Oregon
- State-Level Legality: ORS 166.240 exempts balisongs from knife restrictions, permitting ownership and transfer without a permit.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities such as Portland and Eugene prohibit concealed carry in public, with penalties up to Class B misdemeanors under local codes.
- Federal Restrictions: Balisongs with blades exceeding 2.5 inches are regulated under 15 U.S. Code § 1245, limiting their transport across state lines but not intrastate possession.