The state of Maine bars people from carrying any kind of concealed weapon. This includes dirks, stilettos, bowie knives, and other types of weapons that have been deemed to be dangerous. People can also not display these types of weapons in a threatening way.
This is what 25 M.R.S.A. § 2001-A states:
You can’t display any dangerous weapon in a threatening manner, whether that weapon is a firearm, brass knuckles, a bowie knife, or even a slingshot.
In addition, these types of weapons cannot be concealed in any way. Ways to conceal a weapon include hiding it under a person’s clothing or keeping it in another place where it can’t be easily seen.
With that said, there are exceptions to these rules. The laws regarding concealed carried weapons don’t apply to knives that are typically used in trapping or fishing. This is described in Title 12, section 10001.
According to Title 12, section 10001, knives that are designed for hunting, trapping, and fishing can still be carried. There is no specification when it comes to the types of knives that can be used for this kind of activities.
25 M.R.S.A. 2001-A also does not take the time to define terms like a bowie knife, stiletto, or dirk. Determining whether or not a weapon is dangerous and deadly is largely a judgment call. During the case State of Maine v. Jones, 46 A.3d 1125l which took place in 2012, it was determined that, in cases where this was unclear, there would have to be an inquiry into the weapon. There, it would be seeing whether or not the knife was designed to be used against human beings. Labels on manufacturer websites may be a helpful guideline to look at. The attention is always going to be given to the knife itself and how it is marketed and sold.
There is no statewide preemption in Maine.
There is also a ban on carrying knives in school districts.
There are no critical dimensions.
As mentioned above, no weapons that are determined to be deadly or dangerous can be carried while concealed in Maine.
This information that is presented as a brief description of the laws and not as any kind of legal advice. aStraightArrow will not and cannot be a legal service provider. The use of the site does not create any sort of client/lawyer relationship. The knife laws are interpreted differently by prosecuting attorneys, enforcement officers, and judges. aStraightArrow suggests you consult legal counsel for further guidance.