Maryland lacks statewide bans on most knives, leaving it up to the various counties and cities to define and prosecute what knives are legal and illegal to carry. As one can imagine, these types of piecework laws can leave residents and visitors alike exposed to criminal charges.
Read on for some additional clarity regarding knife laws in Maryland.
How the state defines knives
Maryland categorizes knives as weapons for the following types:
- Bowie knives
- Dirks
- Gravity knives
- Throwing stars
- Switchblades
- Gravity knives
- Ballistic knives
Pen knives are exempt from being categorized as weapons, no matter the size of the blade.
Maryland laws regarding knife carrying
Broadly throughout the state, it is against the law to conceal carry dangerous weapons, including all knives but pocket knives. Open carry of knives used as weapons is permitted as long as the carrier has no harmful intent or malice.
It bears repeating that these laws vary widely from county to county and in different cities in our state. Anyone who wants to carry a knife legally in Maryland should apprise themselves of the different laws in the jurisdictions where they plan to open carry their knife.
Are you facing weapons charges in Maryland?
Being accused of weapons violations is serious, especially if the person arrested is a convicted felon. You will need to build a staunch defense to the charges.
It is always good to strategize first about the defense you will use. Perhaps you are a laborer who uses knives regularly on the job and were merely carrying the tools of your trade on your person when you encountered police.
By strategizing and beginning at once to craft your defense, you may be able to get the charges dropped or be acquitted.