Massachusetts knife laws balance public safety with recent Second Amendment protections, making the state moderately restrictive. Key rulings and statutes define what you can own, carry, and where, with updates from 2024-2025 changing automatic knife rules.
Statewide Carry Restrictions
Under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269 § 10(b), carrying stilettos, daggers, dirks, ballistic knives, double-edged blades, or certain automatic knives remains prohibited on your person or in vehicles. Ordinary pocket knives and fixed blades are generally legal if not listed, but “intent to harm” turns any knife illegal.
Switchblade Changes
The 2024 Commonwealth v. Canjura ruling struck down the blanket switchblade ban as unconstitutional. New 2025 laws allow adults 21+ to carry automatic knives with blades under 3 inches statewide, overturning the old 1.5-inch limit.
Blade Length Rules
No general statewide blade length cap exists beyond specific bans. Boston limits carry to 2.5 inches, with under-18 sales restricted to 2 inches. “Lawful purpose” exceptions apply for work, camping, or fishing.
Open vs. Concealed Carry
Open carry is fine for non-prohibited knives, but concealment doesn’t trigger extra rules—focus is on knife type. Local ordinances like Boston’s add scrutiny; avoid “quick-draw” devices or locking blades drawn at lock.
Age and Purchase Limits
Adults 18+ can own most knives; 21+ for new automatic rules. Boston and Cambridge bar sales or loans of certain knives to minors. No statewide age for folders or kitchen knives.
Prohibited Locations
Knives are banned in schools (K-12 and college), courthouses, airports, and government buildings. Bars and events may restrict via policy. Private property follows owner rules.
Penalties for Violations
First offenses under § 10(b) carry fines up to $50 or jail up to 2.5 years; felons face 2.5-5 years prison. Repeat violations escalate; courts consider prior record.
Practical Advice
Carry for clear purposes like utility; secure knives in vehicles out of reach. Check local codes via Municode for cities like Boston or Salem. Join groups like AKTI for updates.
SOURCES:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/massachusetts/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/massachusetts-knife-laws/
