- Folding knives, commonly known as pocket knives, are generally legal to own and carry in Massachusetts.
- There is no statewide blade length restriction for standard folding pocket knives, unlike switchblades, which previously had a 1.5-inch blade limit.
- Pocket knives can be carried openly or concealed, but carrying any knife in a threatening or dangerous manner is illegal.
Recent Changes (2024)
- As of August 27, 2024, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that bans on carrying switchblades (automatic knives) violate the Second Amendment, making automatic knives with blades over 1.5 inches legal to own and carry.
- However, all knife owners-including those carrying pocket knives-must still comply with other restrictions, such as not carrying knives in schools or certain government buildings.
Key Restrictions
- School Zones: Possession of any knife-including pocket knives-is strictly prohibited on school grounds or within 300 feet of a school, unless you have written authorization from school officials.
- Double-Edged Knives: Knives with two sharpened edges (daggers, stilettos, etc.) are per se restricted and may not be lawfully carried.
- Locking Blades: Carrying a device that allows a knife with a locking blade to be drawn in the locked position is prohibited. This law was intended to target quick-draw sheaths but has sometimes been interpreted more broadly.
- Intent: Using any knife, including a pocket knife, to threaten, intimidate, or harm others can result in criminal charges.
Local Ordinances
- Massachusetts does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, meaning cities like Boston and Cambridge may have additional restrictions (e.g., Boston prohibits the sale of knives with blades over two inches to minors).
- Always check local laws before carrying a knife in a new city.
Age Restrictions
- There is no statewide age limit for carrying legal knives, but some cities have local restrictions (e.g., Boston and Cambridge).
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in Massachusetts
| Aspect | Rule/Restriction |
|---|---|
| Folding Pocket Knives | Legal to own and carry |
| Blade Length | No statewide limit for pocket knives |
| School Zones | Knives prohibited on/near school property |
| Double-Edged Knives | Illegal to carry |
| Locking Blade Devices | Prohibited if knife can be drawn while locked |
| Local Laws | Check for city-specific restrictions (e.g., Boston, Cambridge) |
| Age Limits | No state limit; local limits may apply |
You may legally own and carry a pocket knife in Massachusetts, provided it is not used as a weapon, is not double-edged, and is not carried in restricted locations like schools. Recent court decisions have also legalized automatic knives, but all knife owners must remain aware of local ordinances and the intent behind carrying or using any knife
Sources
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/massachusetts/
- https://www.shieldon.net/massachusetts-knife-laws-comprehensive-legal-guide/
- https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/massachusetts-knife-law-update-switchblades-now-legal
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/massachusetts-knife-laws/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/massachusetts-knife-laws/