Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Maine? (2026)
Yes — Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Maine as of 2026.
Law changed in 2015: The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2015. No major changes since.
Quick Answer
Maine law does not specifically prohibit switchblade knives. There are no state statutes banning possession or sale of switchblades, making them generally legal.
What the Law Says
Maine repealed its ban on switchblades in 2015. There are no statewide restrictions on the possession or carry of switchblades.
— Maine Revised Statutes Title 17-A
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Legal to possess switchblades. |
| Sale & Purchase | Legal to sell and purchase switchblades. |
| Penalties | N/A |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The ban on switchblades was repealed in 2015. No major changes since.
Enforcement Reality
Maine legalized switchblades in 2015. Enforcement is minimal for simple possession. The focus is on criminal intent and the use of a knife in a crime.
A common mistake is to carry a switchblade concealed. While legal to own and open carry, concealed carry of a switchblade is illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maine. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Switchblades / Automatic Knives in Maine
Can You Fly With Switchblades / Automatic Knives Out of Maine?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives may be legal in Maine, 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 Switchblades / Automatic Knives From Maine?
This is where people get burned. Maine treats switchblades / automatic knives as legal, but neighboring New Hampshire 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 Maine/New Hampshire border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where switchblades / automatic knives is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Switchblades / Automatic Knives are legal in Maine. You can carry them without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Maine vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a switchblade is fully legal in 19 states, restricted in 17, and illegal in 14. Maine falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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.
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