Recent Legal Changes: Switchblades and Automatic Knives
- Switchblades (automatic knives) are now legal: As of August 27, 2024, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the state’s longstanding ban on automatic knives violates the Second Amendment. This means adults in Massachusetts can now legally own, purchase, and carry automatic knives, including switchblades and out-the-front (OTF) knives.
- 2025 Law Update: The law was further revised in 2025, permitting adults aged 21 and older to possess switchblade knives with blades under 3 inches for personal use, including public carry. Knives exceeding this size or intended for dangerous uses (such as concealed carry without a permit) remain illegal.
Key Rules for Knife Ownership and Carry
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Legal to Carry | Restrictions/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pocket knives, multitools | Yes | Yes | Generally legal unless carried as a weapon |
| Switchblades/OTF knives | Yes | Yes | Blade must be under 3 inches; 21+ years old |
| Assisted-opening knives | Yes | Yes | Restrictions may apply if blade >1.5 inches |
| Double-edged, daggers | Restricted | Restricted | Generally illegal to carry in public |
| Locking-blade knives | Yes | Restricted | Cannot be drawn at locked position |
| Ballistic knives | No | No | Remain illegal |
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: It is illegal to carry any knife on the grounds or in buildings of elementary, secondary schools, colleges, or universities without written authorization.
- Government Buildings: Carrying knives is strictly prohibited in government buildings, courthouses, and similar public facilities.
- School Zones: Carrying knives within 300 feet of a school is prohibited, regardless of knife type.
Age and Occupation Exceptions
- Age: Adults 21 and older may possess and carry switchblades under the new law. In Boston, those under 18 cannot purchase knives with blades over 2 inches.
- Occupation: Law enforcement, military personnel, and certain professionals (e.g., emergency workers, outdoor enthusiasts with permits) may have broader permissions for knife carry and use.
Concealed vs. Open Carry
- Open Carry: Generally allowed for legal knives, but carrying large knives in public may be seen as threatening and could result in charges if the knife is used or displayed in a dangerous manner.
- Concealed Carry: Stricter rules apply. Concealed carry of knives considered “dangerous weapons” or with intent to use unlawfully is typically illegal without a special permit.
Penalties for Violations
- Violating knife laws can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, or imprisonment, especially for carrying illegal knives or carrying in prohibited locations.
- Repeat offenses or using a knife to threaten or harm can lead to harsher penalties, including felony charges.
Summary Table: Massachusetts Knife Law Quick Reference (2025)
| Rule/Restriction | Status (2025) |
|---|---|
| Switchblades legal? | Yes, for adults 21+ (blade <3″) |
| Carry in schools/government? | No, unless authorized |
| Double-edged/dagger knives? | Generally illegal to carry |
| Concealed carry? | Restricted; permit required for some knives |
| Age restrictions? | 21+ for switchblades; local rules may vary |
| Law enforcement/military? | Exemptions apply |
Massachusetts now allows adults 21+ to own and carry switchblades with blades under 3 inches, but strict rules remain for blade length, location, and intent. Carrying knives in schools, government buildings, or using them in a threatening manner is still illegal. Always check local ordinances and consult legal counsel if unsure about specific situations.
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/automatic-knives-no-longer-illegal-in-massachusetts/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/massachusetts-knife-laws/
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/massachusetts/
- https://www.arenaaccessories.com/Big-Changes-in-Massachusetts-Switchblade-Laws-in-2025–What-You-Need-to-Know_b_16.html
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/massachusetts-knife-law-update-switchblades-now-legal
