Is Brass Knuckles Legal in New Hampshire? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in New Hampshire as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: In early 2025, the New Hampshire House passed a bill to legalize brass knuckles, but it has not yet become law. The legal status could change in the near future.
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Quick Answer
New Hampshire prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of brass knuckles under RSA 159:3. They are classified as prohibited weapons except for law enforcement or military personnel.
What the Law Says
New Hampshire law prohibits the use of brass knuckles as a deadly weapon.
— New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 159:3
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for authorized persons. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture. |
| Penalties | Class B misdemeanor punishable by fines and/or imprisonment up to 6 months. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession is prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In early 2025, the New Hampshire House passed a bill to legalize brass knuckles, but it has not yet become law. The legal status could change in the near future.
Enforcement Reality
Carrying metallic knuckles is a misdemeanor in New Hampshire. While there is a legislative push to legalize them, the law currently remains in effect.
A common mistake is to believe that the ongoing legislative debate has already legalized brass knuckles. As of early 2026, the ban is still in place.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across New Hampshire. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in New Hampshire. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
New Hampshire vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying brass knuckles is fully legal in 2 states, restricted in 8, and illegal in 40. New Hampshire falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Brass Knuckles:
Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Brass Knuckles in New Hampshire?
What are the penalties for carrying brass knuckles in New Hampshire?
How strictly does New Hampshire enforce its brass knuckles laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in New Hampshire?
What is the age restriction for carrying brass knuckles in New Hampshire?
Does the law on carrying brass knuckles change at the New Hampshire border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive New Hampshire Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in New Hampshire — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
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Brass Knuckles in Other States
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