In Maine, individuals are free to own a wide variety of knives. This includes pocket knives, automatic knives (commonly known as switchblades), bowie knives, dirks, stilettos, daggers, hunting knives, sword canes, and utility blades.
State law does not impose a maximum blade length for knives carried either openly or concealed, except for a specific provision regarding gravity knives or switchblades carried by one-armed individuals, which must have a blade shorter than three inches.
Open Carry of Knives
Open carry of knives is generally permitted throughout Maine, allowing individuals to carry knives in plain view. However, it is important to note that displaying a knife in a threatening manner is prohibited and can result in criminal charges.
The law takes any threatening display of a knife seriously, classifying it as a Class D crime under Maine’s criminal threatening statutes.
Concealed Carry Restrictions
Concealed carry of knives is subject to more stringent regulations. Maine law makes it illegal to conceal on your person a “bowie knife, dirk, stilettos, or other dangerous or deadly weapon usually employed in the attack on or defense of a person.”
However, this restriction does not apply to knives used for hunting, fishing, or trapping, which may be carried concealed. Ordinary utility or pocket knives that are not designed for attack or defense are also generally permitted to be carried concealed.
Legalization of Automatic Knives
A significant change in Maine’s knife laws occurred in 2015, when the state repealed its prohibition on automatic knives. As a result, automatic knives are now legal to own and carry, both openly and concealed, and are no longer considered “dangerous or deadly weapons” under the statute.
Prohibited Locations and Local Ordinances
There are specific locations where carrying knives is restricted regardless of whether they are carried openly or concealed. Knives are generally not allowed in schools, as per school district rules, and are prohibited in court facilities under judicial order.
Additionally, some cities—such as Augusta, Bangor, and Lewiston—have their own local ordinances that may impose further restrictions. Since Maine does not have statewide preemption, local governments retain the authority to enact their own knife laws, making it crucial for individuals to be aware of local regulations.
Penalties for Violations
Violating the concealed carry restriction for prohibited knives is a Class D crime, punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Similarly, displaying a knife in a threatening manner is also a Class D crime and carries comparable penalties.
Sources:
1. https://www.handgunlaw.us/documents/USKnife.pdf
2. https://mdcreekmore.com/maine-knife-laws/
3. https://grizzlyblades.com/knife-education
