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Information on the “§42a-compliant” label


Weapons Act (WaffG) § 42a Prohibition on carrying imitation weapons and certain portable objects

  1. It is prohibited
    • to carry imitation weapons,
    • to carry bladed weapons as per Annex 1 Section 1 Subsection 2 No. 1.1, or
    • to carry knives with one-handed locking blades (one-handed knives) or fixed-blade knives with a blade length exceeding 12 cm.
  2. Paragraph 1 does not apply to:
    • use in photo, film, or television recordings or theater performances,
    • transport in a locked container,
    • carrying the objects listed in Paragraph 1 Nos. 2 and 3, provided a legitimate interest is present. Further regulations remain unaffected.
  3. A legitimate interest as per Paragraph 2 Sentence 1 No. 3 is deemed to exist particularly when carrying the items is connected to professional activities, cultural preservation, sports, or serves a generally recognized purpose.

Wichtiger Hinweis: Dieser Artikel gibt einen allgemeinen Überblick und ersetzt keine Rechtsberatung. Im Zweifel wende dich an eine Fachanwältin oder einen Fachanwalt für Waffenrecht.

§ 42a WaffG: Was sagt das Gesetz?

§ 42a des Waffengesetzes regelt das sogenannte Führverbot – also das Verbot, bestimmte Gegenstände in der Öffentlichkeit mit sich zu führen. „Führen" bedeutet dabei: das Messer griffbereit oder zugänglich bei sich zu haben, zum Beispiel in der Hosentasche, am Gürtel oder im Rucksack.

Das Gesetz verbietet das Führen von:

  • Anscheinswaffen (z. B. täuschend echte Nachbildungen von Schusswaffen)
  • Hieb- und Stoßwaffen gemäß Anlage 1 Abschnitt 1 Unterabschnitt 2 Nr. 1.1
  • Einhandmesser – Messer mit einhändig feststellbarer Klinge
  • Feststehende Messer mit einer Klingenlänge über 12 cm

Entscheidend für alltägliche Messerträger ist vor allem der dritte Punkt: das Einhandmesser.

What does "knife with a one-handed locking blade" mean exactly?

"One-handed locking" knives are knives that feature a mechanism for one-handed opening and a blade lock. If a knife has only one of these characteristics, it is not affected by § 42a. 

(Source: https://www.boker.de/waffenrecht)

This means a knife is § 42a compliant if

  • it does not have a mechanism for one-handed opening
  • or the blade cannot be locked

A pocket knife that meets both criteria, such as most Swiss Army knives or slipjoints, is also § 42a compliant.

Please note:

Please note that we have classified the item to the best of our knowledge and belief. This is generally only a guideline for you and not a binding legal advice.

It is possible that a pocket knife we consider § 42a compliant may still fall under the carrying prohibition.

Fazit: Was du beim Kauf beachten solltest

Wenn du ein Messer kaufst, das du in der Öffentlichkeit bei dir tragen möchtest, achte auf folgendes:

  • Ist es ein Slipjoint? → In der Regel 42a-konform
  • Hat es einen Flipper oder Daumenpin UND einen Lock? → Nicht zum Führen in der Öffentlichkeit geeignet
  • Ist die Klinge kürzer als 12 cm und feststehend? → Dann nicht wegen Klingenlänge betroffen, aber Öffnungsmechanismus prüfen
  • Achte auf unsere Produktkennzeichnung → Alle bei uns als „§42a-konform" markierten Messer erfüllen die gesetzlichen Anforderungen nach unserem besten Wissen und Gewissen

Alle §42a-konformen Messer entdecken →

Häufige Fragen zu §42a WaffG

Darf ich ein Taschenmesser in Deutschland in der Öffentlichkeit tragen?

Ja – solange es sich nicht um ein Einhandmesser im Sinne des § 42a WaffG handelt. Ein klassisches Klappmesser ohne Daumenpin und ohne Klingenarretierung (Slipjoint) ist legal in der Öffentlichkeit zu führen. Modelle mit Flipper und Liner Lock hingegen nicht.

Was ist der Unterschied zwischen einem Slipjoint und einem Liner-Lock-Messer?

Ein Slipjoint hat keine Klingenarretierung – die Klinge hält durch eine Feder in Position, kann aber mit Kraft zurückgeklappt werden. Ein Liner Lock (oder Frame Lock) rastet die Klinge in der offenen Position fest ein. Nur das Slipjoint ist 42a-konform, wenn zusätzlich keine Einhandöffnung vorhanden ist.

Gilt das Führverbot auch im Auto?

Das Führverbot gilt für das griffbereite Mitführen. Ein Messer im verschlossenen Koffer im Kofferraum ist legal transportiert – nicht „geführt". Liegt das Messer hingegen griffbereit auf dem Beifahrersitz oder in der Mittelkonsole, gilt es als geführt.

Ist ein feststehender Messer mit 11 cm Klingenlänge legal?

Ja. Das Gesetz verbietet das Führen feststehender Messer mit einer Klingenlänge über 12 cm. Bei 11 cm liegt man unter dieser Grenze. Allerdings können feststehende Messer unter anderen Gesichtspunkten trotzdem relevant sein – im Zweifelsfall Rechtsrat einholen.

Was bedeutet „berechtigtes Interesse" beim Führen von Einhandmessern?

Das Gesetz erlaubt das Führen von Einhandmessern, wenn ein berechtigtes Interesse vorliegt. Dazu zählen beispielsweise die berufliche Nutzung (z. B. Handwerker, Jäger), die Brauchtumspflege oder sportliche Zwecke. Das Interesse muss jedoch nachvollziehbar und im Zweifelsfall belegbar sein.

Wo erkenne ich, ob ein Messer bei Knife Lounge 42a-konform ist?

Alle Messer, die bei uns als „§42a-konform" gekennzeichnet sind, erfüllen nach unserem besten Wissen und Gewissen die Anforderungen des Waffengesetzes. Bitte beachte, dass dies kein abschließendes Rechtsgutachten ist. Im Einzelfall kann es Abweichungen geben.

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Diese Messer sind §42a-konform und sofort verfügbar:

Acta Non Verba Z200 G10 – Bild 1
Acta Non Verba Z200 G10
Blade finish: Stonewashed | Handle Color: Olive
Acta Non Verba Z200 EDC folder Made in Czech Republic G10 handle scales Two handed opening with opening groove on the blade Superluminova luminescent pin  Linerlock locking system (Super) Deep Carry wire clip for discreet carry

€120.00
Details
ANV M311 Comp Topo KnifeLounge Exclusive – Image 5
ANV M311 Comp Topo KnifeLounge Exclusive
ANV M311 Comp Topo KnifeLounge ExclusiveThe compact version of the tactical fixed ANV M311Topo Edition - KnifeLounge Exclusive!Green Micarta handleElmax steel blade with DLC finishIncludes paracord and Kydex sheath

€279.00
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slim Black - Green Micarta – Bild 3
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slim Black - Green Micarta
Compact fixed blade for pocket carry Handle material: Black Canvas Micarta or Green Linen Micarta Mostly handcrafted by founder Michael Jarvis Exclusive to Knife Lounge Includes Boltaron sheath with clip

€359.00
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slim Damascus Black - Green Micarta – Image 2
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slim Damascus Black - Green Micarta
Compact fixed blade for pocket carry Rietveld Damascus steel (non-stainless) Handle material: Black Canvas Micarta or Green Linen Micarta Mostly handcrafted by founder Michael Jarvis exclusively for Knife Lounge Includes Boltaron sheath with clip

€575.00
Auxiliary Manufacturing Karl Jr. Deadhead – Image 1
Auxiliary Manufacturing Karl Jr. Deadhead
Version: Micarta Green / Stainless
Small, tough, and built for everyday use Do you know that feeling when a knife surprises you because it packs so much power into such a small package? That’s exactly what the Aux MFG Karl Jr. Deadhead is – made from 14C28N steel with black G10 handle scales: compact enough to carry every day, yet tough enough to handle real work. The Karl Jr. is essentially the “little brother” of the Karl line – but make no mistake: small doesn’t mean weak. With an overall length of about 18 cm and a blade length of around 7.5 cm, it strikes the perfect balance between portability and performance. It’s designed so you can carry it comfortably in your pocket without ever worrying that your knife might feel too bulky. The blade made from 14C28N steel (with a black PVD coating) provides excellent corrosion resistance and reliable edge retention while remaining easy to resharpen. The steel is tough enough for daily use – from opening packages and outdoor cutting tasks to serving as a dependable tool while camping. The G10 handle scales are textured and grippy – even if your hands are wet or sweaty, you’ll always have a secure hold. Build quality is excellent: the connection between handle and blade feels solid and durable, never flimsy. For a more understated look, you can choose the version with green Micarta scales and a Stonewash finish on the blade. Another feature that makes the Karl Jr. a true EDC knife: it comes with a Kydex sheath in a clamshell design – meaning the knife sits securely but can be drawn quickly at any time. For daily carry, that’s a big advantage: your knife is always ready for action without wasting a second. A small side fact: the Karl model was originally designed in collaboration with a Chicago police officer to create a more compact version of a duty knife – and you can feel it. The tactical DNA is there, but without the over-the-top “operator” look. It’s a knife that doesn’t boast, doesn’t hide – it simply gets the job done. Why does the Karl Jr. work so well as an EDC? Compact dimensions: Big enough to perform, small enough to stay out of your way in daily life. Durable materials: 14C28N steel, G10 handles, and solid craftsmanship ensure reliable performance day after day. Quick accessibility via sheath: The Kydex sheath provides fast and effortless access when you need it. Built for real use: Whether cutting, opening, or working – this knife doesn’t end up in a drawer, it stays with you every day. In short: the Aux MFG Karl Jr. is no toy – it’s a sharp, reliable companion for everyday life. Light enough to carry unnoticed, yet strong enough never to let you down.

€119.00
Auxiliary Manufacturing Karl Jr. Deadhead – Image 1
Auxiliary Manufacturing Karl Jr. Deadhead
Version: G10 Black / Black
Small, tough, and built for everyday use Do you know that feeling when a knife surprises you because it packs so much power into such a small package? That’s exactly what the Aux MFG Karl Jr. Deadhead is – made from 14C28N steel with black G10 handle scales: compact enough to carry every day, yet tough enough to handle real work. The Karl Jr. is essentially the “little brother” of the Karl line – but make no mistake: small doesn’t mean weak. With an overall length of about 18 cm and a blade length of around 7.5 cm, it strikes the perfect balance between portability and performance. It’s designed so you can carry it comfortably in your pocket without ever worrying that your knife might feel too bulky. The blade made from 14C28N steel (with a black PVD coating) provides excellent corrosion resistance and reliable edge retention while remaining easy to resharpen. The steel is tough enough for daily use – from opening packages and outdoor cutting tasks to serving as a dependable tool while camping. The G10 handle scales are textured and grippy – even if your hands are wet or sweaty, you’ll always have a secure hold. Build quality is excellent: the connection between handle and blade feels solid and durable, never flimsy. For a more understated look, you can choose the version with green Micarta scales and a Stonewash finish on the blade. Another feature that makes the Karl Jr. a true EDC knife: it comes with a Kydex sheath in a clamshell design – meaning the knife sits securely but can be drawn quickly at any time. For daily carry, that’s a big advantage: your knife is always ready for action without wasting a second. A small side fact: the Karl model was originally designed in collaboration with a Chicago police officer to create a more compact version of a duty knife – and you can feel it. The tactical DNA is there, but without the over-the-top “operator” look. It’s a knife that doesn’t boast, doesn’t hide – it simply gets the job done. Why does the Karl Jr. work so well as an EDC? Compact dimensions: Big enough to perform, small enough to stay out of your way in daily life. Durable materials: 14C28N steel, G10 handles, and solid craftsmanship ensure reliable performance day after day. Quick accessibility via sheath: The Kydex sheath provides fast and effortless access when you need it. Built for real use: Whether cutting, opening, or working – this knife doesn’t end up in a drawer, it stays with you every day. In short: the Aux MFG Karl Jr. is no toy – it’s a sharp, reliable companion for everyday life. Light enough to carry unnoticed, yet strong enough never to let you down.

€119.00
Benchmade 165BK Mini Bushcrafter, CruWear, Carbon (Benchmade, BM165BK) – Bild 2
Benchmade 165BK Mini Bushcrafter, CruWear, Carbon
CPM-CruWear blade with black Cerakote coating – extremely edge-retentive, tough, and corrosion-resistant.Rugged sheath with Quick-Release mechanism – rock-solid retention and lightning-fast access with just a thumb press. CruWear & Carbon Fiber Small in name. Big in everything that matters. When you choose this knife, you’re not just buying a piece of steel with handle scales. You’re buying precision from Oregon – hand-assembled, inspected, and finished to perfection. You’re buying CPM-CruWear: a powder-metallurgy tool steel that combines toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance so well that even the harshest outdoor work leaves no mark. The carbon fiber handle scales aren’t just light and elegant – they’re machined to the millimeter and accented with red liners, a detail you’d usually only see on custom knives. And then there’s the sheath: injection-molded, modular, weather-resistant, and built to last. The integrated Quick-Release mechanism locks the knife securely in place until you need it – then lets it go instantly with a single press of your thumb. Whether you carry it cross-draw in Scout style, classic on the belt, or hanging low, your Mini Bushcrafter rides safe and stays ready. None of this is by accident – it’s the result of Benchmade’s commitment to building knives that last a lifetime… and then another. Yes, it comes at a price. But it’s the price for a tool that doesn’t get replaced – it gets passed down.

€487.00
Benchmade Successor – Image 1
Benchmade Successor
Version: Burn Brass Aluminium
Aluminum handle SpearPoint blade made of M390 with black DLC finish Made in USA

€259.00
Benchmade Successor – Image 1
Benchmade Successor
Version: Blue Aluminum
Aluminum handle SpearPoint blade made of M390 with satin finish Made in USA

€259.00
Big Idea Design - USA Lookout Fixed Blade Nitro V – Image 2
Big Idea Design - USA Lookout Fixed Blade Nitro V
Blade material: CPM Magnacut | Handle Material: Titanium
Compact trouser pocket fixedMade in USA VersionBlade steel: Nitro V2 Kydex sheaths included (for left or right trouser pocket)Includes a titanium pocket clipMADE IN USA!  The nod to “view” in the name is no coincidence: “Lookout” refers to Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga – a place with perspective. Just like this knife. Designed with one goal in mind: to be a reliable companion. Not a decorative piece, not a shelf queen, but a tool built to be used. Every day. Outdoors. In everyday life. Or wherever a sharp blade is needed.  Now for the best part: this version is Made in the USA. No imports – fully crafted in Big Idea Design’s brand-new workshop in Tennessee. The flat-ground Nitro-V blade is sharp, corrosion-resistant, and made for daily use. The handle, with its screwed-on scales in Micarta, G10, or Ultem, sits solid in the hand, even when wet or dirty. Thanks to its compact size and low weight, you get one of the ultimate pocket-fixed blades here – big enough to handle real work, small enough to stay out of the way in your pocket. Included: two Kydex sheaths – for both left- and right-hand carry – and a sturdy titanium clip.

Variants from €239.00
€289.00
Details