Can Evolv Detect Knives, 3D-Printed Guns, and Other Weapons?

Many organizations want to know if Evolv can detect knives and other weapons beyond firearms. The answer is nuanced. Evolv Express can detect many types of knives and metal weapons, but the system was specifically designed to focus on firearms and mass casualty threats.

Understanding these capabilities helps you make better security decisions. No single technology catches everything. That's why security experts recommend a layered approach that combines multiple detection methods with trained personnel.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly what Evolv can and cannot detect. We'll also share how to maximize your protection against all types of threats.

What Evolv Express Was Designed to Detect

Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology combined with artificial intelligence. The system generates a magnetic field that reacts to metallic objects. Then AI algorithms analyze these reactions to identify specific threat signatures.

The system was primarily engineered to detect:

• Handguns of various sizes and types
• Rifles and long guns
• Explosives and mass casualty weapons
• Large metal objects that could serve as weapons

According to Evolv Technology, their systems detect approximately 500 firearms daily across all customer locations. The company has screened over 3 billion people worldwide since deployment began.

Can Evolv Detect Knives?

Yes, Evolv can detect many types of knives—but with important limitations. The company openly states that Evolv Express was not specifically designed for knife detection. However, the system will alert on many knives due to their metal content.

Here's what you should know about knife detection:

• Large tactical knives trigger alerts more consistently
• Smaller knives may pass through undetected
• Metal composition affects detection rates
• Knife position on the body impacts results

Evolv reports that their systems detected over 200,000 knives in 2023 alone. Windsor Regional Hospital, for example, intercepted hundreds of knives using their Evolv system. So while knife detection happens regularly, it's not guaranteed for every knife type.

What About 3D-Printed Guns and Non-Metal Weapons?

This is where understanding detection limitations becomes critical. Evolv Express relies on detecting metal through magnetic field disruption. Items made from plastic, ceramic, or other non-metallic materials won't trigger the system.

Weapons that Evolv cannot reliably detect include:

• 3D-printed plastic guns with minimal metal parts
• Ceramic knives and blades
• Plastic explosives without metal components
• Non-ferrous weapons made from certain materials

Most real-world firearms contain enough metal to trigger detection. However, as weapon technology evolves, security strategies must adapt accordingly. This limitation applies to most walk-through detection systems—not just Evolv.

How Evolv Compares to Traditional Metal Detectors

Traditional metal detectors alert on virtually any metal object. This creates two problems. First, long lines form as security checks every alarm. Second, false alarms from phones, keys, and belts cause delays and frustration.

Evolv Express takes a different approach:

The tradeoff is clear. Evolv prioritizes speed and visitor experience while maintaining strong firearm detection. Traditional detectors catch more metal objects but create operational challenges.

Why Layered Security Matters

No single technology provides perfect protection. Evolv weapons detection systems work best as part of a comprehensive security strategy. Smart organizations combine multiple layers to address different threats.

An effective layered security approach includes:

• Weapons detection screening at entry points
• Visual gun detection cameras monitoring for brandished weapons
• Trained security personnel for secondary screening
• Bag screening systems like Evolv eXpedite
• Access control to limit entry points
• Clear policies prohibiting weapons

This combination catches more threats than any single technology alone. When Evolv alerts on a potential threat, trained staff conduct secondary screening to verify and respond appropriately.

Making the Most of Evolv Detection

Organizations using Evolv can optimize their detection rates through proper configuration and operation. Here are key factors that affect performance:

System Sensitivity Settings Evolv allows customers to adjust sensitivity levels. Higher sensitivity catches more potential threats but increases alarm rates. Work with your security integrator to find the right balance for your environment.

Operator Training The "Red Box" feature shows exactly where a potential threat is located on a person's body. Well-trained operators resolve alarms quickly and accurately. Poor training leads to missed threats and slower throughput.

Secondary Screening Procedures When Evolv alerts, what happens next matters enormously. Clear protocols for bag checks, wand screening, and pat-downs ensure nothing slips through during the resolution process.

Regular Software Updates Evolv continuously improves its AI algorithms through software updates. These updates help the system better distinguish threats from harmless items. Keep your system current for optimal performance.

Real-World Detection Results

Evolv customers report strong results when systems are properly deployed and operated. Schools using Evolv have seen dramatic reductions in weapons brought to campus. Stadiums screen thousands of fans quickly while still catching firearms.

However, incidents have occurred where weapons entered venues with Evolv systems. In most cases, investigations revealed:

• The weapon didn't pass through the Evolv system
• Someone bypassed screening entirely
• Secondary screening procedures failed
• System settings needed adjustment

These situations highlight why layered security and proper procedures matter as much as the technology itself.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing Weapons Detection

Before selecting any weapons detection system, consider these questions:

1. What threats concern you most—guns, knives, explosives, or all three?
2. How many people need screening per hour?
3. What level of visitor experience do you need to maintain?
4. What secondary screening resources do you have?
5. How will the system integrate with your existing security?

Your answers will guide you toward the right solution. For many organizations, Evolv's combination of high throughput and strong firearm detection makes it the best choice. Others may need additional screening layers for knife-focused threats.

Get Expert Guidance on Weapons Detection

Choosing the right weapons detection system requires careful analysis of your specific needs. The wrong choice leaves gaps in your security. The right choice protects your people while maintaining efficient operations.

At Wired, we help organizations evaluate and implement weapons detection solutions that match their unique requirements. Our team understands both the capabilities and limitations of today's leading systems.

Ready to strengthen your security? Contact Wired today for a free consultation. We'll assess your facility, discuss your concerns, and recommend solutions that provide real protection against the threats you face.