Are Butterfly Knives Legal in Massachusetts? (2026)
Yes — Butterfly Knives are legal in Massachusetts as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: A 2024 court ruling overturned the ban on switchblades, but this did not directly impact butterfly knife laws.
Quick Answer
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Massachusetts with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. A 2024 court ruling overturned the ban on switchblades, but this did not directly impact butterfly knife laws.
- Age restriction: 18+ for purchase
What the Law Says
Massachusetts law prohibits the carrying of double-edged knives. Single-edged butterfly knives are legal to carry.
— M.G.L. c. 269, § 10
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | 18+ for purchase |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A 2024 court ruling overturned the ban on switchblades, but this did not directly impact butterfly knife laws.
Enforcement Reality
Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Massachusetts, but they cannot be double-edged. Enforcement is strict on the double-edged blade prohibition.
A common mistake is carrying a double-edged butterfly knife, which is illegal and will be prosecuted.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Massachusetts. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Butterfly Knives in Massachusetts
Can You Fly With Butterfly Knives Out of Massachusetts?
Butterfly Knives may be legal in Massachusetts, but airports are federal territory. TSA screens under federal rules, not state law. If the item is federally restricted, expect problems at the checkpoint. Even if it clears TSA, the laws of your destination state apply the moment you land. Plenty of travelers have learned this the hard way — legal when they packed, criminal when they arrived.
Can You Cross State Lines With Butterfly Knives From Massachusetts?
This is where people get burned. Massachusetts treats butterfly knives as legal, but neighboring New York treats it as restricted. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the Massachusetts/New York border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where butterfly knives is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Butterfly Knives are legal in Massachusetts. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Massachusetts vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a butterfly knife is fully legal in 39 states, restricted in 10, and illegal in 1. Massachusetts falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Massachusetts Legal Guides
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