Maryland’s knife laws are nuanced and vary depending on the type of knife, the manner of carry, and your location within the state. In general, you are allowed to own most knives in Maryland, including folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and utility knives, and there is no statewide restriction on blade length for private possession. However, certain knives such as switchblades (automatic knives) and gravity knives are more strictly regulated, especially when it comes to carrying them in public or transferring ownership.
The law draws a distinction between “penknives”—defined as manual folding knives without a spring mechanism—and other types of knives. Penknives can be carried openly or concealed throughout Maryland, provided you do not carry them with unlawful intent. For other knives, such as fixed blades, switchblades, dirks, and bowie knives, open carry is generally permitted only if you do not intend to use the knife as a weapon. Carrying a knife for self-defense is considered unlawful intent under Maryland law, which means you cannot legally carry a knife with the stated or intended purpose of using it to protect yourself. Concealed carry of these “dangerous weapons” is prohibited unless you have a rare Maryland Wear and Carry permit.
Local jurisdictions in Maryland, such as Baltimore, may have stricter regulations than state law. For example, Baltimore bans the possession of switchblades outright and may impose additional blade length restrictions. Because Maryland does not have statewide preemption for knife laws, it is important to check local city or county ordinances before carrying any knife in public.
Knives are strictly prohibited on public school property (K-12), with very limited exceptions such as butter knives. Similar restrictions apply in government buildings, courthouses, and airports, where all knives are typically banned regardless of type. Private property owners may also prohibit knives, and their posted rules must be respected.
It is illegal to sell, barter, or display for sale any switchblade or ballistic knife in Maryland. While state law does not ban possession or open carry of these knives, local ordinances may do so. Minors under the age of 16 may not carry dangerous weapons, including knives, between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise, except when engaged in activities like hunting.
Violating Maryland’s knife laws can result in misdemeanor charges, with penalties including up to three years in prison, a $1,000 fine, or both. Carrying a knife on school property carries similar penalties.
The safest option for everyday carry in Maryland is a manual folding knife (penknife), carried without any unlawful intent. Carrying any knife for self-defense is not permitted under state law. Because local laws may be stricter than state statutes, it is essential to check city or county rules before carrying a knife in public. Knives should never be carried on school grounds, in government buildings, or in any area where they are expressly prohibited. For specific questions or if you are uncertain about your rights, consult legal counsel or local law enforcement.
Sources
[1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/maryland-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.tosahwi.com/blogs/maryland-knife-laws-2025-update
[3] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-maryland-navigating-legal-carry-and-restrictions/
[4] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/maryland/
[5] https://ravencresttactical.com/maryland-knife-laws/
