Legal Information on Knives

In France, most knives (kitchen knives, folding knives, hunting knives, table knives, etc.) are classified as Category D bladed weapons under the CSI (French Internal Security Code). Their acquisition and possession are unrestricted for adults, subject to compliance with the rules on carrying and transporting them (see below).

Regulatory update: in accordance with Article R. 313-16-1 of the CSI (in force since 6 September 2025, introduced by Decree No. 2025-894 of 5 September 2025 and its implementing order), the prohibition on sales to minors and the related information obligations are set out below.

Carrying or transporting a Category D knife is prohibited without a legitimate reason. If stopped by authorities, the holder must be able to justify a valid use or context (e.g. confirmed professional travel, culinary use at the workplace, secure transport between home and workshop, authorised and supervised activity). In the absence of a legitimate reason, the item may be confiscated and proceedings may be initiated under the CSI.

Practical recommendations:

  • Transport the knife when not in immediate use: sheathed, wrapped, and out of direct reach.
  • Where possible, keep it separated from the passenger area of the vehicle.

Sensitive locations: access to public, educational, administrative buildings, or certain events is strictly regulated and may be prohibited with any sharp object.

The sale of knives to minors is strictly prohibited. By placing an order on FRANÇOIS-LOUIS TOUSSAINT – FRENCH CUTLER, the buyer certifies on their honour that they are at least 18 years of age and have full legal capacity to make a purchase.

Order verification: FRANÇOIS-LOUIS TOUSSAINT may implement verification measures (e.g. request for proof of identity, manual review) and reserves the right to cancel any order in the event of serious doubt regarding the buyer's age or in the case of any anomaly.

The buyer undertakes to use the item in accordance with its intended legitimate purpose (culinary preparation, supervised professional activity, permitted collecting, etc.), in compliance with applicable laws.

It is the buyer's responsibility to:

  • Inform themselves of the regulations applicable in their country and, where relevant, the local rules of the destination.
  • Ensure the safety of persons and property (careful handling, secure storage out of reach of minors, appropriate maintenance and sharpening).
  • Comply with transport requirements and the prohibition on carrying without a legitimate reason.
  • Verify import and customs conditions for international shipments (costs and risks borne by the buyer).

In the event of a breach of local laws (e.g. import restrictions, specific prohibitions on blade mechanism or length), liability and consequences (seizure, fines, etc.) rest exclusively with the buyer. No refund or compensation will be due in the event of confiscation on grounds of local illegality.

FRANÇOIS-LOUIS TOUSSAINT, its representatives, and any person involved in the operation of the website cannot be held liable for the consequences of misuse, dangerous use, non-compliant use, or illegal use of the products sold. The buyer or end user bears full responsibility for all risks associated with the acquisition, use, transport, and/or importation of the knives.

This clause is not intended to, and does not have the effect of, limiting the consumer's statutory rights or the liability of FRANÇOIS-LOUIS TOUSSAINT under the legal guarantees of conformity and hidden defects, or, where applicable, liability for defective products, in accordance with French law.

  • Store knives in a safe place, ideally locked or in a secure device.
  • Never leave a knife within reach of a minor or a person lacking the necessary judgement.
  • Strictly follow the maintenance and sharpening instructions provided with the products.

As a matter of public safety, FRANÇOIS-LOUIS TOUSSAINT reserves the right to refuse shipment to certain sensitive addresses (schools, nurseries, public buildings, or any address deemed inappropriate). In the event of a refusal, the buyer will be informed and refunded where applicable.

For up-to-date regulatory information and official resources:

  • Service-Public.fr — French government portal (practical guides on "weapons and regulations", "carrying and transport").
  • Légifrance — official legal texts (French Internal Security Code, in particular Art. R. 313-16-1; applicable decrees and orders).
  • Educational summaries on knife carrying and possession regulations (sector sources and current affairs briefings).

Key points:

  • Sale to minors is prohibited.
  • Carrying is prohibited; transport is regulated.
  • Compliant and safe use is required.