Overview of Maryland Knife Laws
Maryland’s knife laws are complex and vary by knife type, method of carry, location, and local ordinances. There is no statewide preemption, meaning local jurisdictions can impose stricter rules than state law.
Legal and Illegal Knives
| Knife Type | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penknife (folding blade) | Legal | Legal | Must not be a switchblade |
| Switchblade/Automatic | Legal* | Restricted | Open carry allowed, concealed carry restricted; local bans (e.g., Baltimore) |
| Gravity Knife | Illegal | Illegal | Prohibited to carry |
| OTF (non-spring-loaded) | Legal | Restricted | Local laws may vary |
| Neck Knife | Legal | Restricted | Local laws may vary |
| Other knives (fixed blade, bowie, etc.) | Legal (if not for unlawful intent) | Restricted | Carrying with intent to harm is illegal |
*Open carry of automatic knives is generally legal unless local ordinances prohibit it, but concealed carry is restricted and may require a permit.
Key Legal Points
- Penknives (any folding knife that is not a switchblade) can be carried openly or concealed without restriction under state law.
- Switchblades, gravity knives, and certain other knives are heavily restricted. Concealed carry is generally prohibited, and open carry is subject to local laws.
- Intent matters: Carrying any knife with the intent to use it as a weapon or to deter an aggressor is unlawful. Defensive carry is not a valid legal justification.
- Minors: In some counties, minors cannot carry dangerous weapons (including knives) between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise, except for specific activities like hunting.
- Schools and government buildings: Knives are strictly prohibited on public school property and in many government buildings.
- Local ordinances: Cities like Baltimore have additional restrictions, especially on automatic knives.
Concealed Carry and Permits
- Concealed carry of most knives classified as “dangerous weapons” is prohibited unless you have a Maryland Wear and Carry Permit, which is difficult to obtain.
- Ordinary folding knives (penknives) are generally exempt from concealed carry restrictions.
Penalties for Violations
- Violating Maryland’s knife laws can result in fines and imprisonment, with penalties depending on the type of knife and the nature of the offense.
- Selling or transferring a switchblade or shooting knife is a separate offense with its own penalties.
Best Practices
- Always check local laws before carrying any knife, as city or county ordinances may be stricter than state law.
- Never carry a knife onto school property or into government buildings.
- Do not carry a knife with the intent to use it as a weapon for self-defense—this is not a legal justification in Maryland.
- If stopped by law enforcement, be aware of your rights and the specific knife laws that apply to your location.
Summary Table: Maryland Knife Law Quick Reference
| Can I carry a folding pocketknife? | Yes, openly or concealed, if not a switchblade |
| Can I carry a switchblade? | Openly, unless local law prohibits; concealed carry is restricted|
| Can I carry a knife for self-defense? | No, carrying with intent to use as a weapon is unlawful |
| Are knives allowed in schools? | No, strictly prohibited |
| Do local laws matter? | Yes, always check city/county rules |
Maryland allows open and concealed carry of ordinary folding knives (penknives), but restricts or prohibits many other types, especially if carried with unlawful intent or in restricted locations. Local ordinances can be stricter than state law, so always verify the rules in your area before carrying any knife.
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/maryland/
- https://kniferights.org/resources/legal-blade/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/maryland-knife-laws/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/maryland-knife-laws/
- https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-maryland-navigating-legal-carry-and-restrictions/
