The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has ruled that a ban on carrying switchblade knives violates the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms. This decision strikes down a state law from 1957 that prohibited carrying spring-release knives.
Justice Serge Georges Jr. wrote the opinion for the unanimous decision, referencing the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen.
We conclude that switchblades are not ‘dangerous and unusual’ weapons that fall outside Second Amendment protection, Georges Jr. stated. All weapons are inherently ‘dangerous’ because they are designed for bodily assault or defense.
There are no federal restrictions on buying, owning, or carrying a switchblade. Massachusetts was one of seven states that banned carrying switchblades.
As of August 27, 2024, it is now legal to carry a switchblade in Massachusetts after the court’s decision to overturn the 67-year-old law.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell criticized the ruling, arguing that it overlooks the dangers posed by switchblades. “This case shows the tough situation our state courts are in because of the Bruen decision, and today’s outcome is disappointing, Campbell said. Switchblades are dangerous, and banning them was a sensible safety measure.
Campbell’s statement also promised continued efforts in the State House to ensure that Massachusetts laws protect public safety.
The Suffolk District Attorney’s Office, which prosecuted the defendant, David E. Canjura, declined to comment, instead referring to the court filings.