Massachusetts has long been known for its strict knife laws, especially regarding the possession and carrying of pocket knives and other bladed tools. However, recent legal changes and court decisions have significantly altered the landscape, particularly in 2024 and 2025. Understanding these updates is crucial for residents, visitors, and anyone interested in knife ownership or use in the state.
Recent Legal Changes: Switchblades and Automatic Knives
The most significant update came on August 27, 2024, when the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the state’s decades-old ban on automatic knives (commonly known as switchblades) violated the Second Amendment right to bear arms.
This landmark decision in Commonwealth v. Canjura now allows Massachusetts residents to legally purchase, carry, and use automatic knives, including those with blades over 1.5 inches, provided other legal stipulations are met.
In January 2025, further legislative revisions clarified that adults aged 21 and older can possess switchblades, provided the blade is less than 3 inches and the knife opens via a button or switch. Larger blades or knives intended for dangerous uses remain restricted without special permits. Exemptions exist for military personnel, law enforcement, and certain outdoor enthusiasts.
What Types of Pocket Knives Are Legal?
Folding knives and pocket knives with blades less than 2.5 inches are generally legal to own and possess in Massachusetts.
Automatic (switchblade) knives are now legal for adults 21+ if the blade is under 3 inches and the knife meets specific opening mechanism requirements.
Spring-assisted knives are not considered switchblades if they require manual effort to open, but nuances in the law mean caution is advised.
Locking-blade knives and knives drawn at the locked position are restricted, especially if they can be quickly deployed or are carried in a manner suggesting intent to use as a weapon.
Carrying and Concealment Rules
Open carry of legal pocket knives is permitted, but carrying large blades in public may be seen as a threat or breach of the peace.
Concealed carry of knives is generally more restricted, especially if the knife is classified as a “dangerous weapon” or the carrier intends to use it unlawfully.
School zones and government buildings: Carrying any knife, including pocket knives, is strictly prohibited on school grounds and in certain government buildings without authorization.
Age restrictions: State law does not specify a minimum age for carrying legal knives, but local ordinances (e.g., Boston and Cambridge) prohibit sales or lending of certain knives to individuals under 18.
Criminal Liability and Penalties
Possession of an illegal knife or carrying a knife in a prohibited manner can result in misdemeanor charges and legal penalties. This includes carrying switchblades with blades longer than allowed, or possessing any knife with intent to harm or intimidate others.
Latest Trends and Statistics
Following the 2024 court ruling and 2025 legislative updates, there has been a noticeable increase in the availability and legal sale of automatic knives in Massachusetts.
The legal reforms align Massachusetts with a national trend toward relaxing restrictions on knife ownership, recognizing their practical uses for self-defense, outdoor activities, and everyday tasks.
Despite these changes, enforcement remains strict in sensitive areas (schools, government buildings), and concerns persist about potential misuse, particularly in urban environments.
Conclusion
Massachusetts has undergone a dramatic shift in its approach to pocket knife laws, especially regarding switchblades and automatic knives. Adults can now legally own and carry certain types of pocket knives, including automatic knives under defined conditions.
However, strict rules remain in place for blade length, opening mechanisms, and prohibited areas. Residents and visitors should stay informed of both state and local regulations to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. These changes reflect a broader national trend toward modernizing knife laws, balancing individual rights with public safety concerns.
Source:
[1] https://www.arenaaccessories.com/Big-Changes-in-Massachusetts-Switchblade-Laws-in-2025–What-You-Need-to-Know_b_16.html
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/massachusetts/
[3] https://www.tektoknives.com/blogs/news/massachusetts-knife-law-update-switchblades-now-legal
[4] https://www.shieldon.net/massachusetts-knife-laws-comprehensive-legal-guide/
[5] https://www.akti.org/automatic-knives-no-longer-illegal-in-massachusetts/
[6] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/massachusetts-knife-laws/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyZ5Zl9E6WY
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/knives/comments/1f6c5lu/why_hasnt_anyone_mentioned_that_ma_has_overturned/