Reviewed September 2026

New Hampshire Knife Laws

In New Hampshire, switchblades are legal and butterfly knives are legal. Legal to carry openly or concealed for anyone not otherwise prohibited. There is no notable statewide blade length limit.

Switchblades: Legal

All knife restrictions on law-abiding adults were repealed in 2010.

Butterfly Knives: Legal

Butterfly knives are legal.

Concealed Carry

Legal to carry openly or concealed for anyone not otherwise prohibited.

Local Ordinances

New Hampshire has statewide preemption: cities and counties cannot pass stricter knife laws than the state. Among the most knife-friendly states in the country.

Not legal advice. Statuses reviewed September 2026 from state statutes and reputable trackers. Laws change; verify the current statute or consult a lawyer before buying or carrying. See the full 50-state comparison.

The Law in Detail

Key statutes: N.H. Rev. Stat. §§159:26, 625:11

HB 1665 (2010), championed by Rep. Jenn Coffey, removed all state restrictions on switchblades, daggers, dirks, and stilettos. New Hampshire has statewide preemption under RSA 159:26, so municipalities may not restrict knives. Deadly weapons, which can include knives, remain prohibited in courthouses.

New Hampshire Knife Law FAQ

Are switchblades legal in New Hampshire?

Switchblades (automatic knives) are legal in New Hampshire. All knife restrictions on law-abiding adults were repealed in 2010. Reviewed September 2026; this is general information, not legal advice.

Are butterfly knives legal in New Hampshire?

Butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in New Hampshire. Butterfly knives are legal.

Is it legal to carry a knife in New Hampshire?

Generally yes, within limits: Legal to carry openly or concealed for anyone not otherwise prohibited. Carrying any knife with intent to use it unlawfully is a crime everywhere.

What size knife can you legally carry in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire has no notable statewide blade length limit, but restricted places (schools, courthouses) and local ordinances still apply. Among the most knife-friendly states in the country.

Traveling Through?

Knife law changes at the state line. Bordering states: Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont.

Hand-Forged Knives, Shipped to New Hampshire

Every Louis Martin blade is hand-forged and ships free anywhere in the US. Start with our pocket knives and everyday carry pieces, browse the full collection, and keep our national knife law guide handy when you travel.