Virginia Code § 18.2-308 makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor to carry certain concealed weapons, such as firearms, knives, and other weapons, unless an exception applies. Repeated offenses escalate to felony charges. The law also provides defenses, such as possessing a valid concealed handgun permit or being on one's property.
The law covers pistols, revolvers, certain knives, nunchaku, throwing stars, and similar weapons when carried concealed and hidden from view.
First offenses are Class 1 misdemeanors; repeat violations can be charged as Class 6 or Class 5 felonies, depending on prior convictions.
Yes, possessing a valid concealed handgun permit is an affirmative defense against certain violations involving handguns.
Yes, the law exempts individuals from penalties when carrying weapons in their own residence or curtilage, among other exceptions.