No, butterfly knives (balisongs) are illegal in Massachusetts under state law, which classifies them as switchblades. Possession, sale, or transportation of such knives is prohibited, with limited exceptions for law enforcement or licensed collectors. Violations may result in criminal penalties, including fines or imprisonment, as enforced by local district attorneys and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Massachusetts
- Prohibition Under Switchblade Statute: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Section 10(b) explicitly bans the possession, sale, or transfer of switchblades, including balisongs, unless owned by law enforcement or military personnel.
- Enforcement by Local Authorities: District attorneys across the state, such as those in Suffolk or Middlesex counties, actively prosecute violations under this statute, with penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony-level consequences for repeat offenses.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Recent legislative discussions (e.g., H.4567, filed in 2025) propose stricter penalties for concealed carry of prohibited knives, signaling heightened enforcement by municipal police departments and the Massachusetts State Police.
Additional municipal ordinances in cities like Boston may impose further restrictions, though state law supersedes local regulations. For collectors or travelers, consult the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS) for updated guidance on exemptions or legal alternatives.