Yes, butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal to possess and carry in South Dakota, provided they are not used unlawfully.
Under South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-14-16, balisongs are not classified as prohibited weapons, unlike switchblades or gravity knives. The state’s knife laws focus on intent and use rather than mechanical design, aligning with its permissive stance on non-firearm edged tools. Local ordinances in municipalities like Sioux Falls or Rapid City do not impose additional restrictions, though law enforcement retains discretion under disorderly conduct statutes if a balisong is brandished menacingly. No 2026 legislative shifts are pending to alter this status, as recent firearm-centric bills (e.g., HB 1158) excluded blade-specific amendments.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in South Dakota
- No State-Level Prohibition: Balisongs are not listed under SDCL § 22-14-16’s prohibited weapons statute, which targets switchblades, brass knuckles, and similar devices.
- Local Enforcement Caveats: While municipalities cannot outright ban possession, officers may cite individuals under SDCL § 22-14-11 (reckless endangerment) if a balisong is used to threaten or intimidate.
- Open vs. Concealed Carry: No statute distinguishes between open and concealed carry for balisongs; however, carrying one in a manner suggesting intent to harm (e.g., during a public disturbance) may trigger charges under SDCL § 22-18-1 (disorderly conduct).