New Hampshire is known for its motto “Live Free or Die,” reflecting a strong culture of personal freedom that extends to the state’s laws regulating knives. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, it’s essential to understand the knife laws in New Hampshire to ensure you stay compliant while exercising your rights.
No Restrictions on Knife Ownership or Carrying
New Hampshire stands out as one of the most permissive states regarding knives. There are no state-imposed restrictions on owning, buying, selling, or carrying knives, whether openly or concealed. This includes all types of knives—from pocket knives and hunting knives to switchblades, daggers, and stilettos.
The only exceptions apply to individuals convicted of certain felonies related to violence, property crimes, or drug offenses, who are prohibited from possessing certain knives considered deadly weapons. For the vast majority of law-abiding citizens, however, knife ownership and carry are unrestricted.
Concealed and Open Carry Allowed Without Permits
Unlike many states, New Hampshire does not require any permit to carry a concealed or openly displayed knife. Residents may carry any lawful knife without notifying authorities or obtaining a license—no matter the blade length or style.
The state’s laws explicitly prohibit municipalities or local governments from enacting their own knife restrictions, thanks to statewide preemption rules. This ensures uniform knife rights across all cities and towns.
Restricted Locations and Exceptions
While the laws are broadly permissive, certain venues impose specific prohibitions:
Courthouses: Knives are prohibited in courthouses, consistent with security regulations.
Official Custody: Persons in official custody (e.g., jails) cannot possess knives as they’re classified like other contraband.
Schools and Certain Federal Properties: Though not specified in state law, schools and federal institutions likely have their own regulations banning weapons on premises.
These exceptions are typical across states and mainly aim at safety in sensitive environments.
State Protection Against Federal Knife Regulations
In 2025, New Hampshire passed a law (HB 1178) explicitly prohibiting state enforcement of federal statutes, regulations, or executive orders restricting the right to possess or carry knives. This legislation is a strong statement of New Hampshire’s commitment to individual liberty over federal overreach, reflecting the state’s unique stance on knife rights.
It makes New Hampshire the first state to specifically include knives in such a preemption law, reaffirming the state’s broad protection of knife ownership and carry.
When Knife Possession Might Be Illegal
Possession of knives is illegal in New Hampshire only if:
The person has been convicted of a violent or drug-related felony.
The knife is possessed with intent to use unlawfully against others.
Intent matters—carrying a knife for lawful purposes such as hunting, fishing, or self-defense is legal. However, brandishing or threatening with a knife can lead to criminal charges.
Summary: Know Your Rights and Restrictions
You may legally own, carry openly, or conceal any knife without a permit.
No blade length restrictions apply for ordinary citizens.
Felons may have restrictions on certain knives.
Municipalities cannot pass knife laws that contradict state law.
Restricted places like courthouses prohibit knives for security reasons.
New Hampshire protects knife rights against federal interference.
New Hampshire provides some of the most knife-friendly laws in the U.S., making it a haven for knife enthusiasts, outdoorsmen, and anyone who values personal freedom. However, it’s wise to remain aware of restricted areas and avoid any unlawful intent or use. Staying informed and responsible ensures that your knife rights in New Hampshire are protected and exercised safely.
Sources
[1] https://www.shokuninusa.com/it-eu/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-hampshire/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-hampshire-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/346/all-info
[5] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/nh-bill-prohibiting-enforcement-of-federal-knife-laws-rules-or-exec-orders-signed/
[6] https://www.bladeaddict.com/pages/knife-laws-by-state
