The legal landscape for pocket knives in Massachusetts has undergone significant changes recently, particularly regarding automatic knives. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current situation:
Recent Legal Changes
On August 27, 2024, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court made a landmark decision that has reshaped knife laws in the state:
- The court ruled that possessing a switchblade knife is no longer a crime under the Second Amendment.
- This decision overturned a 1957 law that previously banned switchblades.
- The ruling was based on interpretations of the Second Amendment by the U.S. Supreme Court, particularly the Bruer and Heller decisions.
Current Legal Status of Pocket Knives
Legal Knives
- Folding knives or pocket knives with blades less than 2.5 inches
- Swiss army knives
- Kitchen knives (when carried for legitimate purposes)
Restricted Knives
- Stilettos
- Daggers
- Double-edged knives
- Ballistic knives
- Automatic knives with blades longer than 1.5 inches (prior to the 2024 ruling)
Carrying Regulations
- Open carry of legal knives is generally permitted.
- Concealed carry laws are stricter, especially for knives considered “dangerous weapons”.
- It’s illegal to carry any knife in schools, from elementary to university level.
Age Restrictions
- There are no specific statewide age restrictions for carrying legal knives.
- In Boston, individuals under 18 cannot purchase knives with blades longer than two inches.
- In Cambridge, it’s illegal to give or lend a lock-back knife to anyone under.
Special Considerations
- The law prohibits carrying any device that allows a knife with a locking blade to be drawn at the locked position.
- Double-edged knives are restricted, but only effective cutting edges should be considered when determining if a knife is “double-edged”.
Legal Consequences
Violating knife laws in Massachusetts can result in:
- Misdemeanor charges
- Fines
- Potential imprisonment, especially for repeat offenders
It’s important to note that while the recent court ruling has legalized switchblades, other restrictions on knives still apply. Always consider the context and location when carrying any type of knife in Massachusetts.
Sources
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/massachusetts-knife-law-update-switchblades-now-legal
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/massachusetts-knife-laws/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/massachusetts/comments/1f2ktbn/mass_high_court_rules_possessing_a_switchblade/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/massachusetts-knife-laws/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/massachusetts/
