Is Switchblades / Automatic Knives Legal in Massachusetts?
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is legal with restrictions in Massachusetts as of 2026. In Massachusetts, switchblades (automatic knives) are generally prohibited under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(h), which bans possession of certain dangerous weapons including switchblades. Exceptions exist for law enforcement and certain occupational uses. The law specifically prohibits possession, sale, and transfer of switchblades.
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is LEGAL WITH RESTRICTIONS in Massachusetts
Switchblades / Automatic Knives is legal in Massachusetts but with specific restrictions and regulations.
Switchblades / Automatic Knives Laws in Massachusetts: Quick Facts
- 1 Legal Status: Switchblades / Automatic Knives is currently legal with restrictions in Massachusetts.
- 2 Possession: Illegal to possess switchblades except for law enforcement or authorized persons.
- 3 Sale: Illegal to sell or transfer switchblades within the state.
- 4 Age Restriction: None (possession is broadly prohibited regardless of age).
- 5 Penalties: Misdemeanor punishable by up to 2.5 years in jail and/or fines.
Detailed Legal Breakdown
| Possession | Illegal to possess switchblades except for law enforcement or authorized persons. |
| Sale | Illegal to sell or transfer switchblades within the state. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession is broadly prohibited regardless of age). |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor punishable by up to 2.5 years in jail and/or fines. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
How Does Massachusetts Compare?
Across all 50 states, Switchblades / Automatic Knives is fully legal in 20 states, legal with restrictions in 28 states, and illegal in 2 states. Massachusetts is among the 28 states where it is legal with restrictions.
View the full 50-state map for Switchblades / Automatic Knives →Top Switchblades / Automatic Knives Products Available in Massachusetts (Where Permitted)
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This page was researched and written by the editorial team at IsThisLegalInMyState.com. All legal information is sourced directly from official state statutes, regulatory agency publications, and legislative databases. Our team reviews each page for accuracy and updates it when laws change.
Source
Citation: Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 269, Section 10
https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartIV/TitleI/Chapter269/Section10
Last verified: 2026-01-15
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