A Kubotan (or Kubaton ) is a compact self-defense keychain tool, and you can have 2 types - one with a concealed knife integrated into it, and a kubotan version without a knife.
In Canada, you cannot carry anything for the purposes of self-defense in Canada. So - no, a kubotan in any form is illegal to carry because it is assumed that you will use it as a self-defense tool.
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Can I Defend Myself With A Kubotan?
As Canadians, we cannot technically defend ourselves with a Kubotan or with any self-defense tool. Kubotans are never legal in Canada.
If I diverge for a second, whether or not you can actually defend yourself is a different point. It depends on the situation.
If you are under attack and you happen to carry some kind of tool like bear spray (for wildlife) and you use that against a person, this might be permissible depending on the context of the crime and on how much "force" the attacker used against you. It's all about context - was the amount of force that you used against the attacker, combied with the weapon/tool that you used, "appropriate" in relation to the level of violence or threat you faced yourself?
You can't bring a knife to a gun fight, as they say.
If you want a more thorough explanation on what is legal when it comes to self-defense in Canada, jump to this guide instead. Or learn about carrying a knife in Canada here.
Anyway, back to the Kubotan.
What Is A Kubaton & Is A Kubotan Legal In Canada?
A kubotan is a compact self-defense tool, usually 5 to 6 inches long, designed to enhance pressure point control, joint locks, and striking techniques. It was developed in the 1960s by Takayuki Kubota, a martial artist and law enforcement trainer.
A kubotan isn’t a weapon in the traditional sense. It has no sharp edges, no blades, no projectiles. It’s a simple, durable rod—often made of metal or high-strength plastic—carried on a keychain. When used correctly, it can:
✅ Amplify strikes by concentrating force into a small point
✅ Control an attacker through pressure points and joint manipulation
✅ Aid in escapes by breaking grips and holds
In trained hands, it’s effective. In untrained hands, it’s just a keychain. But legality isn’t determined by how well you use it—it’s determined by Canada’s Criminal Code.
Are Kubotans Legal in Canada? Understanding the Law
Let’s be crystal clear: Canada does not explicitly ban kubotans, but that doesn’t mean they’re legal. Although obviously, when a Kubotan has a concealed knife integrated into it, the kubotan instanly becomes illegal and becomes labelled as a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code of Canada.
Criminal Code of Canada, Section 84(1) defines prohibited weapons as anything primarily designed to cause harm, incapacitate, or kill. The law doesn’t mention kubotans by name, but if law enforcement determines that your kubotan is being carried as a weapon, you could be in legal trouble.
Here’s what matters: INTENT.
🟢 Legal Uses:
Carrying a kubotan as a keychain or tool
Using it for martial arts training
🔴 Illegal Uses (Potentially Criminal Offenses):
Carrying it with intent to use as a weapon
Using it to threaten or harm someone
The legal gray area is dangerous. If a police officer finds a kubotan in your possession and believes you intend to use it as a weapon, you could be charged under Section 88 (Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose)—even if you never used it.
You do not want to find yourself in court trying to argue why your kubotan is “just a keychain.”
According to the Criminal Code, a prohibited weapon is defined as:
A knife with a blade that opens automatically by gravity
Has centrifugal force, or hand pressure applied to a button
A spring, or other device in or attached to the handle of the knife, or any weapon, other than a firearm, that is prescribed to be a prohibited weapon.
Section 90 of the Criminal Code of Canada says that carrying a concealed weapon, a prohibited device, or prohibited ammunition is an offence unless authorized under the Firearms Act.
In this configuration, the Kubotan acts both as a self-defense tool and a concealed carrying case for the knife, with the concealment suggesting that the knife is hidden or not immediately visible to other people.
What Happens If You're Caught with a Kubotan in Canada?
If you’re caught carrying a kubotan, law enforcement has discretion.
That means:
⚖️ Best-Case Scenario: They see it as an ordinary keychain and let you go.
⚠️ Worst-Case Scenario: They consider it a weapon and charge you under:
Section 88 (Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose)
Section 267 (Assault with a Weapon if used in self-defense)
Penalties can include:
Confiscation of the kubotan
Criminal charges leading to a fine or imprisonment
Legal fees and court appearances
Even if you never intended harm, if the court determines that your kubotan was a weapon in that situation, you’ll be treated as someone carrying an illegal weapon.
Legal Self-Defense Alternatives to a Kubotan in Canada
Let’s be smart. If your goal is self-defense without legal risks, consider these fully legal alternatives:
✅ Personal Alarms: Loud, legal, and instantly draws attention.
✅ Tactical Flashlights: Bright enough to disorient attackers, useful in any emergency.
✅ Bear Spray: Legal in wilderness areas for animal defense, but not against people.
🔴 Avoid These Illegal Items:
🚫 Brass knuckles (prohibited weapon)
🚫 Byrna "ungun" launchers
🚫 Batons (restricted to law enforcement)
Don’t risk your future over a technicality.
Can I Carry A Kubotan Into An Airport?
If such a Kubotan with a concealed knife is presented at a pre-board screening checkpoint at an airport, the security are required to notify the police, which could lead to charges and prosecution for the individual carrying the item.
But given the lack of a specific mention of Kubotans in the Criminal Code and the broad definition of prohibited weapons, it's advised to consult with a legal professional to understand the potential legal implications fully.
There also online retailers like Gorilla Surplus that list Kubotans among self-defense tools available for purchase in Canada, implying a level of legality for ownership, at least - but this seems to be false information and websites like this are attempting to sell their products.
The context of carrying, such as concealment and the presence of a knife or other weapon integrated into the Kubotans, seems to play a significant role in its legality.
Final Thoughts: Is A Kubotan Legal In Canada?
For a definitive understanding of the legal status of Kubotans in Canada, consulting with a legal professional or local law enforcement may be advisable.
Read my full guide on self-defense tools you can carry here.
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