France - Legislation on the possession and carrying of knives

General Status:

In France, knives are classified as Category D weapons under the Internal Security Code. They are free for adults to purchase and possess, but carrying in public is prohibited without legitimate reason.

Restrictions:

- No formal blade length exemption: all locking or fixed-blade knives are considered Category D.

- Carrying is forbidden without lawful justification (professional, sporting, utilitarian).

Warning:

Illegal carrying is punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and a €15,000 fine, or double if committed in a group. The bearer must be able to demonstrate a legitimate reason when controlled by authorities.