New Hampshire is one of the few states in the United States that has no restrictions on the types of knives that are legal to own, carry, and use. This means that residents of NH can own, carry, and use any type of knife they want, including pocket knives, folding knives, switchblades, swords, balisongs, and more. However, there are certain restrictions that must be followed when it comes to carrying and using a knife.
Carrying a Knife in NH
In New Hampshire, it is legal to carry any type of knife, as long as the blade is not longer than four inches. This means that pocket knives, folding knives, and switchblades with blades that are four inches or less are all legal to carry. However, it is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches concealed on your person, or in a vehicle.
Using a Knife in NH
In New Hampshire, it is illegal to use a knife in a manner that is considered dangerous or threatening. This means that it is illegal to use a knife to threaten or intimidate another person, or to use a knife in an attempt to cause physical harm. It is also illegal to use a knife in the commission of a crime.
Knife Laws for Minors in NH
In New Hampshire, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to carry a knife, regardless of blade length. Minors may possess a knife, but they may not carry it in public. Minors may also not purchase a knife, or sell a knife.
Penalties for Violating Knife Laws in NH
If you are found to be in violation of the knife laws in New Hampshire, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor charges can result in fines, jail time, and/or probation. Felony charges can result in much harsher penalties, including prison sentences of up to seven years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are switchblades legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, switchblades are legal to own, carry, and use in New Hampshire, as long as the blade is four inches or less.
Is it legal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches in NH?
No, it is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches concealed on your person, or in a vehicle.
Is it legal for minors to carry knives in New Hampshire?
No, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to carry a knife, regardless of blade length.
What are the penalties for violating knife laws in New Hampshire?
If you are found to be in violation of the knife laws in New Hampshire, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor charges can result in fines, jail time, and/or probation. Felony charges can result in much harsher penalties, including prison sentences of up to seven years.
Are swords legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, swords are legal to own, carry, and use in New Hampshire, as long as the blade is four inches or less.
Are balisongs legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, balisongs are legal to own, carry, and use in New Hampshire, as long as the blade is four inches or less.
Are pocket knives legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, pocket knives are legal to own, carry, and use in New Hampshire, as long as the blade is four inches or less.
Are folding knives legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, folding knives are legal to own, carry, and use in New Hampshire, as long as the blade is four inches or less.
Can minors possess knives in New Hampshire?
Yes, minors may possess a knife in New Hampshire, but they may not carry it in public.
Can minors purchase knives in New Hampshire?
No, minors may not purchase a knife in New Hampshire.
Can minors sell knives in New Hampshire?
No, minors may not sell a knife in New Hampshire.
Are there any restrictions on the types of knives that are legal to own in New Hampshire?
No, there are no restrictions on the types of knives that are legal to own in New Hampshire.
Can I use a knife to defend myself in New Hampshire?
Yes, you can use a knife to defend yourself in New Hampshire, as long as you are not using it in a manner that is considered dangerous or threatening.
Is it illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches openly in New Hampshire?
No, it is not illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches openly in New Hampshire.
Are there any laws about carrying knives in public in New Hampshire?
Yes, it is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than four inches concealed on your person, or in a vehicle.
What are the consequences of violating knife laws in New Hampshire?
If you are found to be in violation of the knife laws in New Hampshire, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor charges can result in fines, jail time, and/or probation. Felony charges can result in much harsher penalties, including prison sentences of up to seven years.