Maryland has a complex set of knife laws that every resident and visitor should understand to avoid unintentionally breaking the law. Whether you’re a collector, outdoor enthusiast, or someone carrying a knife for self-defense, it’s crucial to know what’s legal to own and carry in the state.
This guide breaks down Maryland’s knife laws, ownership rules, carry restrictions, and exceptions so you can stay on the right side of the law.
Knife Ownership: What’s Legal and What’s Not?
In Maryland, knife ownership laws are generally lenient when it comes to possessing knives in your home or on private property. There are no statewide restrictions on owning common types of knives, including:
- Pocket knives
- Bowie knives
- Hunting and fishing knives
- Folding knives
- Machetes
- Fixed-blade knives
However, certain types of knives are classified as “dangerous weapons”, and possession of these can be illegal under specific circumstances. These include:
- Switchblades (automatic knives)
- Gravity knives
- Star knives (throwing stars)
- Ballistic knives
Although recent changes in knife laws in other states have decriminalized switchblade possession, Maryland still restricts them under certain conditions, especially when carried in public.
Concealed vs. Open Carry: What’s Allowed?
Maryland differentiates between simply owning a knife and carrying a knife in public, particularly if it is concealed. The state law prohibits carrying a “dangerous weapon” concealed on or about your person without a legitimate reason. This includes knives like:
- Switchblades
- Gravity knives
- Dirk knives
- Bowie knives (in certain circumstances)
What makes a knife a “dangerous weapon” in Maryland is not always about the design—it also depends on intent and context. If the knife is carried with the intent to harm, threaten, or intimidate, it may be deemed illegal—even if it’s otherwise a legal type of knife.
Folding Pocket Knives: A Legal Gray Area
One area that often confuses Maryland residents is the legal status of folding pocket knives. While generally legal to own and carry, a folding knife can still be considered a dangerous weapon if used or intended to be used as a weapon.
For example, a 3-inch folding knife used to cut fishing line may be perfectly legal, but the same knife found on a person during a violent altercation may result in criminal charges.
To avoid legal issues:
- Keep the knife folded and stored when not in use.
- Avoid brandishing the knife in public.
- Have a legitimate reason (such as work or outdoor activity) for carrying it.
Self-Defense and Knife Carry: A Risky Strategy
Maryland law does not explicitly allow carrying a knife for self-defense, and doing so could backfire legally. If a knife is found on you and you claim it’s for self-defense, this could actually be used as evidence of intent, making it more likely to be considered a “dangerous weapon” under the law.
It’s recommended to consult with an attorney before deciding to carry any weapon—knife or otherwise—for protection in Maryland.
Restricted Places: Where You CanNot Carry a Knife
Even if you are carrying a legal knife, certain locations are completely off-limits, including:
- Schools (public or private)
- Government buildings
- Courthouses
- Airports and secured federal properties
Carrying a knife into these places can result in serious criminal charges, including felony weapons violations. Always check local rules before entering public buildings or traveling with a knife.
Local Ordinances: Varying Laws by County and City
Maryland’s knife laws can vary significantly from one municipality to another. Baltimore City, for example, has stricter rules, including a general ban on carrying knives with blades over three inches in length.
It’s essential to check local ordinances, especially if you’re traveling through different parts of the state. What’s legal in one county might not be in another.
Juvenile Restrictions: Knife Laws for Minors
In Maryland, minors are generally prohibited from possessing dangerous weapons, including certain knives. Exceptions may be made for supervised outdoor activities such as:
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Scouting events
However, any minor found with a knife on school property or in public without a clear, legal purpose could face juvenile charges.
Penalties for Violating Knife Laws
Violating Maryland’s knife laws can lead to a range of penalties:
- Misdemeanors: For first-time offenses or minor violations, fines and short jail terms may apply.
- Felonies: For carrying a weapon during a crime or repeat offenses, felony charges can result in long-term imprisonment.
Prosecutors can also use knife possession as an aggravating factor in other crimes, increasing the severity of charges.
Final Thoughts: Know the Law Before You Carry
Maryland’s knife laws are not as permissive as some other states, and misunderstandings can lead to criminal charges. Always carry knives with a legitimate purpose, avoid concealed carry of prohibited types, and stay aware of local ordinances.
When in doubt, consult a criminal defense attorney or legal resource to ensure you’re within the bounds of the law.