Pocket Knife → Germany

Allowed if blade ≤ 12 cm and non-locking; carry restrictions in public

Details

Under the German Weapons Act (Waffengesetz), single-edged folding knives with a blade up to 12 cm and no one-handed-opening locking mechanism are generally allowed in luggage. Locking one-handed-openable folding knives are restricted from being carried in public (§42a WaffG). Fixed-blade knives over 12 cm and any switchblade / butterfly / push-dagger styles are prohibited from import or possession.

Quantity limit

Blade ≤ 12 cm, non-locking, single-edged

Legal reference

Waffengesetz (WaffG) §42a, Annex 1

Leaving with this item

Pocket knives may be exported from Germany in checked baggage; carry laws at the destination govern what you may do with them on arrival.

Practical advice

Pack any pocket knife in checked luggage. If you carry one in public for a 'legitimate purpose' (work, sport), be ready to explain — fishing, camping and culinary tools are common acceptable purposes.

Customs authority

Zollkriminalamt / Zoll (German Customs — Federal Customs Administration) · https://www.zoll.de