Restrictions on the sale of knives and other bladed items
(for Scotland)
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It is illegal to sell knives (and other similar products as defined) to anyone under 18 years old, and anyone found selling these items to a person under 18 years old risks a maximum fine of £5,000 and/or a term of imprisonment of up to six months. Therefore sellers should always verify the age of the purchaser first.
A licence is required to sell knives which are not for domestic purposes. It is not an offence to sell a knife or knife blade to a person, if the person is aged 16 or over and the knife or blade is for domestic use. Further restrictions are included in the Knives Act 1997, which specifically deals with knives advertised for use in 'combat'.
The legislation is enforced by the police, who (in some areas together with other enforcement agencies such as trading standards services and community safety partnerships) are working to provide local traders with information to help them comply with these controls.
In the guide
Underage sales - the legislation
Combat knives
