Conflicting Rulings on Switchblade Regulations in U.S.

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has ruled that switchblades are protected under the Second Amendment, overturning a 67-year-old ban. This decision follows the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 Bruen decision, which expanded gun rights and emphasized historical tradition in arms regulation. The court's ruling highlights that switchblades are not uniquely dangerous and are considered 'arms' under the Second Amendment. Conversely, a federal judge in California upheld the state's ban on switchblades, declaring them dangerous, unusual, and not commonly used for self-defense. The conflicting rulings illustrate differing interpretations of the Second Amendment and set the stage for potential appeals. Legal analysts suggest these cases could influence legislation in other states regarding knife laws.