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Information on the “§42a-compliant” label


Selection of §42a-compliant knives by Knife Lounge

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.

Important Notice: This article provides a general overview and does not constitute legal advice. If in doubt, please consult a qualified attorney specializing in weapons law.

Section 42a of the German Weapons Act (WaffG): What Does the Law Say?

Section 42a of the German Weapons Act regulates the so-called prohibition on carrying certain items – in other words, the ban on carrying specific objects in public. In this context, "carrying" means having a knife readily accessible or within easy reach, for example in a trouser pocket, on a belt, or in a backpack.

The law prohibits carrying:

  • Imitation weapons (e.g. realistic replicas of firearms)
  • Striking and thrusting weapons as defined in Annex 1, Section 1, Subsection 2, No. 1.1 of the German Weapons Act
  • One-handed locking knives – knives with a blade that can be opened and locked with one hand
  • Fixed-blade knives with a blade length exceeding 12 cm (4.72")

For everyday knife users, the third point is particularly important: the one-handed locking knife.

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/waffenecht)

Slipjoint knife with nail nick and no blade lock – §42a-compliant
✓ 42a-compliant – Slipjoint without blade lock
Folding knife with flipper and frame lock – not compliant under §42a WaffG
✕ Not 42a-compliant – Flipper + Frame Lock

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.

§42a-compliant slipjoint knife vs. folding knife – direct comparison
Left: §42a-compliant slipjoint  |  Right: Folding knife with lock (carrying prohibited)

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.

Knife in a closeable pouch – when closed, legal to carry under §42a WaffG
Stored in a closed container: The carrying prohibition does not apply.

Conclusion: What to Consider When Buying a Knife

If you're looking for a knife that you can legally carry in public in Germany, keep the following points in mind:

  • Is it a slipjoint? → In most cases, it is compliant with Section 42a of the German Weapons Act.
  • Does it have a flipper or thumb stud AND a locking mechanism? → Then it is generally not legal to carry in public under Section 42a.
  • Is it a fixed blade with a blade length under 12 cm (4.72")? → Then the blade length itself is not an issue, but you should still verify how the knife is classified.
  • Look for our product labels → All knives marked as “Legal to Carry in Germany” have been reviewed by us and, to the best of our knowledge and belief, comply with the applicable legal requirements.

Discover all knives that are legal to carry in Germany →

Frequently Asked Questions About Section 42a of the German Weapons Act

Can I legally carry a pocket knife in public in Germany?

Yes – as long as it is not considered a one-handed locking knife under Section 42a of the German Weapons Act. A traditional folding knife without a thumb stud and without a locking mechanism (a slipjoint) can generally be carried legally in public. Models with a flipper and a liner lock, on the other hand, generally cannot.

What is the difference between a slipjoint and a liner-lock knife?

A slipjoint does not lock the blade. Instead, a spring keeps the blade in position, but it can still be folded closed with sufficient force. A liner lock (or frame lock) mechanically locks the blade in the open position. Only a slipjoint is generally compliant with Section 42a, provided it also cannot be opened with one hand.

Does the carrying prohibition also apply inside a vehicle?

The restriction applies to knives that are readily accessible. A knife stored in a locked case in the trunk is being transported legally and is not considered to be carried. If the knife is within easy reach, such as on the passenger seat or in the center console, it is generally considered to be carried.

Is a fixed-blade knife with an 11 cm (4.33") blade legal to carry?

Yes. Section 42a prohibits carrying fixed-blade knives with a blade length exceeding 12 cm (4.72"). An 11 cm blade falls below this limit. However, fixed-blade knives may still be subject to other legal considerations. If in doubt, seek professional legal advice.

What does "legitimate interest" mean when carrying a one-handed knife?

German law allows the carrying of one-handed locking knives if a legitimate interest exists. Examples include professional use (such as by tradespeople or hunters), traditional cultural activities, or sporting purposes. The reason should be reasonable and, if necessary, verifiable.

How can I tell if a knife at Knife Lounge complies with Section 42a?

All knives marked as "Legal to Carry in Germany" have been reviewed by us and, to the best of our knowledge and belief, comply with the applicable legal requirements. Please note that this does not constitute legal advice and individual cases may differ.

View all knives that are legal to carry in Germany →

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These knives comply with Section 42a of the German Weapons Act and are available for immediate delivery:

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 Coffin Tanto Slipjoint – Bild 2
Aux MFG Coffin Tanto Slipjoint
The Tanto blade has its roots in Japanese swordsmithing – originally designed as a short weapon for the Samurai, its geometry still lives on today. The characteristic straight edge, the abrupt transition to the tip, and the flat grind make it one of the most distinctive blade shapes ever created. Auxiliary Mfg has brought exactly that shape to life in M390 steel – sharp, long-lasting, and unmistakable. Paired with a Coffin-style handle made from milled titanium. The Coffin shape – named after its coffin-like outline – is one of the oldest classic handle designs in knifemaking and has lost none of its fascination over the years. Milled from titanium and enhanced with thoughtfully designed machining for extra grip, it gets a modern update here while still respecting the traditional form. As a slipjoint without a locking blade, it is §42a-compliant and legal to carry in most public places in Germany. The clip can be switched to either side for both right- and left-handed users. Handle design: Coffin Shape Handle material: Titanium (milled) Blade steel: M390 Blade shape: Tanto Locking mechanism: Slipjoint (non-locking) Clip: Reversible for left- and right-hand carry Legal to carry in most public places in Germany (§42a German Weapons Act)

€179.00
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
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slipjoint – Bild 3
Aux MFG Pocket Bowie Slipjoint
The Auxiliary Mfg Slipjoint in a Bowie pattern is made for people who know exactly what they want. No lock, no gimmicks – just a Coffin-style handle made from milled titanium that instantly feels like more than an ordinary folder. The classic Bowie blade made from M390 cuts clean, stays sharp for a long time, and simply doesn’t make mistakes in everyday use. If you know M390, you know: this knife is built to grow old with you. As a slipjoint, it is §42a-compliant – easy to carry in your pocket without overthinking it. The clip can be switched to either side for both right- and left-handed users. Handle design: Coffin Shape Handle material: Titanium (milled) Blade steel: M390 Blade shape: Bowie Locking mechanism: Slipjoint (non-locking) Clip: Reversible for left- and right-hand carry Legal to carry in most public places in Germany (§42a German Weapons Act)* *As a non-locking slipjoint, generally considered compliant with §42a. Exceptions may apply at events, schools, etc. Please check local regulations responsibly.

€179.00
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: Blue Aluminum
Aluminum handle SpearPoint blade made of M390 with satin finish Made in USA

€259.00
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
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
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