New Hampshire is known for having some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States. In 2010, the state made history by repealing all restrictions on switchblades, dirks, daggers, and stilettos, effectively removing nearly all limitations on knife ownership and carry. This landmark reform was the first of its kind and helped spark a broader movement advocating for knife owners’ rights.
As of 2025, New Hampshire allows both the open and concealed carry of nearly all types of knives without requiring permits or facing restrictions based on blade type or length. Individuals may carry knives without any special licensing or registration, and there are no state statutes restricting the sale or transfer of knives to adults. The primary exception to this broad freedom is for individuals convicted of certain felonies, who are prohibited from possessing knives classified as deadly weapons.
While the state law broadly prevents municipalities and counties from enacting their own knife restrictions, there remain some limited location-based prohibitions. For example, knives are generally prohibited in courthouses and places where weapons are disallowed for security reasons. Additionally, carrying a knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person remains a crime.
In 2024, New Hampshire passed a new law prohibiting the state from enforcing any federal statute, regulation, or executive order that restricts knife ownership or carry. This law effectively suppresses federal knife regulations within New Hampshire’s borders, strengthening state preemption and reinforcing local control over knife laws.
New Hampshire residents enjoy expansive rights to own and carry knives freely, with minimal restrictions compared to other states. Nevertheless, individuals should remain mindful of specific sensitive locations and the legal consequences of criminal intent associated with knife use.
Sources
[1] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/nh-bill-prohibiting-enforcement-of-federal-knife-laws-rules-or-exec-orders-signed/
[2] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-hampshire-knife-laws/
[3] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-hampshire/
[4] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/
[5] https://www.bladeaddict.com/pages/knife-laws-by-state