Last Reviewed March 11, 2026
Baton Laws by State (2026 Update)
Baton laws by state can get confusing fast because one state may allow ownership, another may restrict public carry, and local rules can still change how the law works in real life. If you are trying to find out whether expandable, collapsible, or telescopic batons are legal where you live, this guide gives you a clearer starting point.
We reviewed current state-level baton laws and major restrictions to help you understand where batons may be legal, where carry gets more complicated, and why checking local laws still matters before you buy or carry one for self-defense.
States Where Telescopic Batons Are Legal to Own and Carry
As of March 11, 2026, based on our latest review, telescopic batons are legal to own and carry in the following states, often without a permit:
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon (open carry), Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
California Update: A federal district court ruled against California’s baton ban in Fouts v. Bonta, and the state appealed that ruling to the Ninth Circuit. California Penal Code 22210 is still listed in the statutes, so if you live in California, make sure you check the current legal status before buying, carrying, or relying on a baton for self-defense. This page was reviewed March 11, 2026, and no major changes were found at the time of review.
Based on our review at the time of publication, California remains a state where civilians have been able to buy and possess telescopic, collapsible, and expandable batons, but readers should verify the current status before purchase or carry.
Washington is another state that can raise questions for buyers, especially when people start looking beyond ownership and into public carry. If you want a closer look at one of the more confusing state questions, read our full guide on whether collapsible batons are legal in Washington State.
States With Baton Restrictions
Some states may allow baton ownership while still restricting public carry, concealed carry, or where the baton can be taken. That is why it is important to look beyond simple yes or no answers and verify how your state handles carry, transport, and restricted places.
- Massachusetts: Legal to own, but public carry is prohibited.
- New York: Legal to own, but carrying in public is restricted.
- Washington D.C.: Legal to own, but not allowed to carry in public areas.
Always check your state, city, and county laws before carrying a baton, since local restrictions and enforcement can change how the law applies in real life.
Top Expandable Batons for Self-Defense
If you’re in a state where expandable batons are legal, here are some options we carry that are popular for personal protection:
- Telescopic Steel Baton with Rubber Handle – A classic, easy-to-grip baton with a durable steel shaft. Great for everyday carry.
- Rubber Handle Push Button Baton – Features a secure locking mechanism and push-button retraction for convenience.
- Pointed Glass Breaker End Cap – Add-on for select batons that enhances utility in emergencies or escapes.
How to Stay Compliant With Baton Laws
- Never carry a baton into schools, federal buildings, or airports.
- If transporting in your vehicle, follow your state and local storage and carry rules.
- Use only for defense, never offense — misuse can still lead to legal consequences.
- Before traveling across state lines, recheck the laws for every state on your route instead of assuming one state’s rules apply everywhere.
- Do not assume that legal ownership at home automatically means lawful public carry, concealed carry, or carry in restricted places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are telescopic batons legal in every state?
No. Baton laws vary by state, and some places may allow ownership while still restricting public carry, concealed carry, or certain locations.
Can I keep a baton in my car?
In some states, vehicle storage may be allowed, but the rules can still depend on local law, accessibility, and how the baton is carried or stored.
Are expandable batons allowed in airports?
No matter what your state allows, do not bring a baton into airports, federal buildings, schools, or other restricted locations without checking the rules first.
Why do baton laws get so confusing?
Many laws use older terms like billy club, nightstick, club, or bludgeon instead of modern product names like telescopic baton, collapsible baton, or expandable baton.
Disclaimer
This article is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may change. Always consult your local statutes or speak to a legal professional before carrying any defensive weapon.
Want to Shop Legal Telescopic Batons?
We carry a range of expandable batons for customers in areas where they are legal.
4 Responses
You write that while California Penal Code §22210 is still under appeal that it’s legal to own collapsible batons in CA. Does that mean you can ship to my address at 94544?
Thanks,
A.
Great question, and I’m glad you asked.
As of now, due to the federal court ruling in Fouts v. Bonta, California Penal Code §22210 is not being enforced against civilians. That means collapsible batons are currently legal for civilian possession in California while the state’s appeal is ongoing.
Yes, we are able to ship collapsible batons to California addresses, including ZIP code 94544, under the current legal status. https://selfdefenseproductsllc.com/baton-laws-by-state/
That said, laws can change if the appeal results in a different outcome. We always recommend staying informed and using any self-defense product responsibly and in accordance with local regulations.
If you have any other questions or want help choosing the right option, feel free to reach out.
Thanks for checking with us,
Josh Chacon
Self Defense Products LLC
Thank you for trusting us with your safety.
I am seeking to purchase a baton for self defense while running alone. I am looking for the best stowability (small) w/ the best function for the size. I imagine having it stowed in my waist running belt for long runs alone. I live in Washington State.
Any info/recommends would be much appreciated.
Thank you
Thanks for reaching out. A lot of batons are either too heavy and bulky to carry comfortably on a long run, or they are so short that they do not give you much useful range.
For your situation, I would go with our lightweight 16 inch expandable baton, the Push Button Baton with Rubber Grip Handle. The 16 inch size tends to be the sweet spot for runners because it is small enough to stow in a waist running belt, but still gives you solid function for the size. It is light enough for long runs, compact when closed, and it is also one of the more affordable options for what you get.
Here is the product link
https://selfdefenseproductsllc.com/product/rubber-handle-push-button-baton/
Why I like the push button style for runners or for folks on the go
A lot of traditional friction batons need a firm strike on a hard surface to close, and that can be annoying in real life. With the push button design, you can actually expand the baton with your finger tip by pulling it out to be in covert quite mode and you can flick it open quickly. When you are ready to close it, you press the button on the bottom to retract it, so you are not fighting it.
For Sizes
Longer batons like 21 inch, 26 inch, and 31 inch are usually better for hiking or vehicle and home use where you can carry them in a backpack or keep them stored nearby. For running, most people prefer the 16 inch because it is easier to carry without feeling bulky
A couple fit tips for a running belt
Most running belts are not designed for heavy items, so any baton can bounce if the belt is loose. A snug sleeve, a dedicated pocket, or using a holster helps a lot. For long runs, the shorter baton typically feels the most comfortable. So a quick tip. Folks start off with a running belt and over time they tend to add more and more items for running because they go longer and go into different areas. I have recommended to folks to use tactical vests and and just putting what ever they want in their vests because there are so many options to use when using a vest. Go into an army surplus store and find one that works for you.
Living in Washington State
I am not a lawyer, but Washington law does address carrying or displaying a weapon like a club in a way that shows intent to intimidate or that would reasonably alarm other people. That is RCW 9.41.270. There are also restrictions on weapons in certain places like parts of courthouses and other designated locations under RCW 9.41.300. Because local rules can vary, it is smart to check your city or county rules too.
For most runners who want small and comfortable, the 16 inch option is the sweet spot.
Hope this helps thanks for reaching out.