New Hampshire is recognized as one of the most knife-friendly states in the U.S., offering broad rights for law-abiding citizens to own, carry, and use knives. However, there are still important legal details and exceptions every resident and visitor should know.
What Knives Are Legal in New Hampshire?
- All Types Permitted: New Hampshire law allows the ownership, possession, and carrying (open or concealed) of virtually any type of knife, including pocket knives, folding knives, switchblades, daggers, dirks, stilettos, and gravity knives.
- No Blade Length Limit: There are generally no restrictions on blade length for most knives, though some sources note a three-inch limit for switchblades.
- No Restrictions on Sale or Transfer: There are no state laws restricting the sale or transfer of knives, including to minors.
Who Cannot Carry Knives?
- Convicted Felons: Individuals previously convicted of a felony are prohibited from possessing knives.
- Persons in Official Custody: Knives are considered contraband for anyone in official custody, such as in correctional facilities.
Where Are Knives Prohibited?
- Courthouses and Government Buildings: Carrying knives is strictly prohibited in courthouses and certain government buildings.
- Schools: Knives may not be carried on school grounds or at school-sponsored events.
- Other Restricted Areas: Carrying knives with the intent to use them unlawfully is always illegal, regardless of location.
Open and Concealed Carry
- No Restrictions: Both open and concealed carry of knives are legal in New Hampshire for law-abiding citizens. No permit or license is required.
- Intent Matters: Carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person is a crime.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform State Law: New Hampshire has a preemption law, meaning local governments cannot enact their own knife restrictions. Only state law applies, ensuring consistency across all cities and counties.
Federal Law and Preemption
- State Protection from Federal Overreach: As of 2022, New Hampshire law explicitly prohibits state enforcement of federal knife restrictions, further strengthening residents’ rights.
Penalties for Violations
-
Consequences: Violating knife laws—such as carrying in a prohibited area or with unlawful intent—can result in fines up to $2,000 and/or up to one year in jail.
Summary Table: New Hampshire Knife Laws
| Legal Aspect | Status in New Hampshire |
|---|---|
| Knife types allowed | All (no general restrictions) |
| Blade length limit | None (except switchblades: 3-inch limit) |
| Open/concealed carry | Legal for all types, no permit required |
| Sale/transfer restrictions | None |
| Prohibited for felons | Yes |
| Prohibited locations | Courthouses, schools, some government buildings |
| Statewide preemption | Yes |
| Enforcement of federal knife law | Prohibited by state law |
Key Takeaways
- New Hampshire residents and visitors enjoy some of the broadest knife rights in the nation.
- All knives are legal to own and carry, with very few exceptions.
- Always avoid carrying knives in prohibited locations and never with unlawful intent.
- Local governments cannot impose additional knife restrictions beyond state law.
For the most current legal advice or if you have specific concerns, consult an attorney or review the latest updates from official state resources.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-hampshire/
- http://www.knifelawonline.com
- https://knifeade.com/new-hampshire-knife-law/
- https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/nh-gun-laws/