New Hampshire stands out as one of the most permissive states in the U.S. regarding pocket knives and other edged tools. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s legal, what’s not, and what you should know if you carry a pocket knife in the Granite State.
General Legality
- No Restrictions on Type or Blade Length: New Hampshire law imposes no restrictions on the type of knife, blade length, or mechanism (including switchblades, dirks, daggers, and stilettos) for law-abiding citizens.
- Open and Concealed Carry: Both open and concealed carry of pocket knives (and other knives) are legal without a permit or license.
- Statewide Preemption: Only the state legislature can regulate knives—local governments cannot enact stricter knife laws. This ensures uniformity throughout New Hampshire.
Who Cannot Carry?
- Convicted Felons: Individuals convicted of a felony against the person or property of another are prohibited from possessing knives in New Hampshire.
- Minors: There are no specific state laws restricting the sale or possession of knives by minors, though federal law and parental discretion still apply.
Where Are Knives Prohibited?
- Schools and Courthouses: Knives are banned in all courthouses and on school property (including K-12 and universities).
- Official Custody: Knives are considered contraband for anyone in official custody (e.g., jail or prison).
Intent and Use
- Lawful Use Required: Carrying or possessing a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person is a crime. Lawful carry is protected, but using a knife as a weapon in a crime will result in prosecution.
- Knives as Tools: In New Hampshire, knives are generally regarded as tools unless used as weapons.
Federal and Interstate Considerations
- Federal Buildings and Airports: Federal law prohibits knives in certain places, such as federal buildings and airports, regardless of state law.
- Crossing State Lines: Neighboring states like Massachusetts have much stricter knife laws. Carrying a knife legally in New Hampshire could lead to serious legal trouble if you cross into another state with different regulations.
Recent Legislative Actions
- Prohibition on Enforcing Federal Knife Restrictions: In 2022, New Hampshire enacted a law prohibiting state enforcement of federal knife restrictions, further protecting residents’ rights to possess and carry knives.
- Repeal of Previous Bans: In 2010, New Hampshire repealed all state-level bans on switchblades, daggers, and other previously restricted knives, making it legal to own and carry any type of knife for most citizens.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in New Hampshire
| Aspect | Legal Status for Law-Abiding Citizens |
|---|---|
| Type of knife | All types legal |
| Blade length | No restriction |
| Open carry | Legal |
| Concealed carry | Legal |
| Sale to minors | No state restrictions |
| Felons | Prohibited from possession |
| Schools/courthouses | Prohibited |
| State preemption | Yes (no local knife laws) |
Key Takeaways
- You can legally own, carry (openly or concealed), buy, and sell any type of pocket knife in New Hampshire if you are not a convicted felon.
- Knives are banned in schools, courthouses, and for those in official custody.
- There are no blade length limits or restrictions on knife types for law-abiding adults.
- Local governments cannot pass their own knife laws—state law prevails everywhere in New Hampshire.
- Always use knives lawfully and be aware of federal and other states’ laws when traveling.
New Hampshire’s approach to pocket knives is among the most freedom-oriented in the nation, but responsible and informed carry remains essential.
Sources:
https://handgunlaw.us/documents/USKnife2.pdf
https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/
