Compliance & Legal
We strictly adhere to federal and state regulations regarding knife sales, shipping, and age verification. Review our compliance standards below.
Federal Regulations
We operate in full compliance with federal laws governing the sale and interstate commerce of knives and bladed tools.
Switchblade Act (15 U.S.C. § 1241-1245)
Interstate shipment of automatic knives is prohibited except to military, law enforcement, and emergency personnel with proper credentials.
Balisong/Butterfly Knives
Federally legal but subject to state restrictions. We do not ship to states where possession is prohibited regardless of federal status.
Fixed Blade Knives
Generally legal to ship interstate when not concealed. Blade length restrictions vary by destination state.
Minimum Age Requirements
Federal law requires purchasers to be 18+. We enforce 21+ for automatic knives and certain tactical designs.
State-by-State Restrictions
The following states have specific restrictions on automatic knives (switchblades) and other prohibited blade types. We cannot ship restricted items to these locations.
We cannot ship automatic knives, switchblades, or spring-assisted knives (depending on local interpretation) to the following states regardless of buyer credentials:
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- All Other States*
*Subject to change based on current state legislation. Local municipal laws may impose additional restrictions.
Shipping Compliance
We adhere to USPS, UPS, and FedEx regulations regarding the shipment of knives and bladed tools.
USPS permits the shipment of knives via ground transportation only (Parcel Select, Retail Ground). Express/Priority Air services cannot be used for sharp objects per Publication 52.
- ✓ Packaging Standards: All blades are secured in protective sheaths and packaged to prevent exposure during transit.
- ✓ Labeling: Packages marked as "Sharps" or "Cutlery" but never as "Weapons" to comply with carrier policies.
- ✓ Signature Requirements: High-value orders ($200+) require adult signature confirmation.
- ✓ No P.O. Boxes: Due to signature requirements, we ship to physical addresses only.
Age Verification Process
We employ strict age verification to ensure compliance with federal and state age restrictions.
Checkout Confirmation
All customers must confirm they are 18+ (or 21+ for restricted items) before completing purchase.
ID Verification
Random spot checks require government-issued ID upload. Orders flagged for verification ship after approval only.
Delivery Confirmation
Adult signature required (21+) for all orders. No "Leave at door" options available for knife deliveries.
Fraud Prevention
Attempting to circumvent age verification results in permanent account ban and order cancellation.
Buyer Responsibility
By purchasing from TOP KNIVES LLC, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
- Legal Ownership You are legally permitted to own and possess the purchased items in your jurisdiction of residence.
- Usage Intent Products are sold for legitimate utility, sporting, or collection purposes only. Any illegal use is strictly prohibited.
- Carry Laws You understand that while ownership may be legal, concealed carry or public display may be restricted in your state/locality.
- Resale Prohibition Purchases are for personal use only. Unauthorized resale or redistribution violates our Terms of Service.
Questions About Compliance?
Contact our legal compliance team for specific questions regarding knife laws in your state.
Contact Compliance Team →