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Louis Martin Custom Knives

Reviewed September 2026

Maryland Knife Laws

In Maryland, switchblades are restricted and butterfly knives are restricted. Concealed carry of dirks, bowies, switchblades, and similar "dangerous weapons" is prohibited; ordinary pocket knives are exempt. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Restricted

Sale is banned and concealed carry is prohibited; possession and open carry without unlawful intent are legal.

Butterfly Knives: Restricted

Legal to own; concealed carry risks a dangerous-weapon charge.

Concealed Carry

Concealed carry of dirks, bowies, switchblades, and similar "dangerous weapons" is prohibited; ordinary pocket knives are exempt.

Local Ordinances

Maryland has no statewide preemption, so cities and counties can add stricter rules. Check local ordinances before carrying. Baltimore and other localities add their own rules; the pocket-knife exemption is your safe harbor.

Not legal advice. Statuses reviewed September 2026 from state statutes and reputable trackers. Laws change; verify the current statute or consult a lawyer before buying or carrying. See the full 50-state comparison.

The Law in Detail

Key statutes: Md. Code, Crim. Law §§4-101, 4-102, 4-105

Maryland's penknife exception is broad: Bacon v. State, 586 A.2d 18 (1991) held even locking folding blades qualify as penknives, so most folders are legal to carry. Violations of §4-101 or §4-102 carry up to three years and a $1,000 fine, and §4-105 bans selling or bartering switchblades even though possessing one is legal. There is no preemption, minors face nighttime carry restrictions in 12 specified counties, and Baltimore restricts automatic knives locally.

Maryland Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in Maryland?
Switchblades (automatic knives) are restricted in Maryland. Sale is banned and concealed carry is prohibited; possession and open carry without unlawful intent are legal. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.
Are butterfly knives legal in Maryland?
Butterfly knives (balisongs) are restricted in Maryland. Legal to own; concealed carry risks a dangerous-weapon charge.
Is it legal to carry a knife in Maryland?
Generally yes, within limits: Concealed carry of dirks, bowies, switchblades, and similar "dangerous weapons" is prohibited; ordinary pocket knives are exempt. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.
What size knife can you legally carry in Maryland?
Maryland has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. Baltimore and other localities add their own rules; the pocket-knife exemption is your safe harbor.

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to Maryland

Every Louis Martin blade is hand-forged and ships free anywhere in the US. Start with our pocket knives and everyday carry pieces, browse the full collection, and keep our national knife law guide handy when you travel.