Maryland Knife Laws: What's Legal to Carry

Maryland's approach splits cleanly into two categories: a short list of specifically banned types, and a more permissive general stance toward ordinary folding and fixed-blade knives carried openly for everyday purposes.

Banned Types

Maryland law bans specific restricted types outright, regardless of intent or how they're carried, including:

• Switchblade knives (automatic-opening).
• Throwing stars (shuriken and similar bladed throwing weapons).
• Certain other specialty weapon types named in state statute.

Ordinary Knives: A More Permissive Standard

Outside of the specifically banned categories, Maryland takes a relatively permissive approach to ordinary folding and fixed-blade knives carried openly. There's no blanket statewide blade-length cap for general carry of a typical EDC folder or utility fixed blade under the general framework.

Concealed Carry

Concealed carry of a knife with intent to injure someone is specifically addressed under Maryland's weapons statute — similar to the intent-based standard several other states use — meaning context and apparent purpose can matter as much as the knife type itself when a knife is carried concealed.

Local Ordinances

As in several other states, some Maryland counties and cities — Baltimore City is a notable example historically — have layered additional local restrictions on top of state law. It's worth checking local ordinances separately from the state-level rules summarized here.

Practical Takeaway

• Standard folding and fixed-blade knives, carried openly for lawful purposes, are generally fine under Maryland's state-level framework.
• Switchblades and throwing stars are banned outright.
• Concealed carry brings intent into the picture more directly.
• Check local city/county ordinances in addition to state law.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Verify current Maryland state law and any applicable local ordinances before carrying.