Is Body Armor Legal in New Hampshire? (2026)
Partially — Body Armor is legal with restrictions in New Hampshire as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Body armor is legal with restrictions to purchase and wear in New Hampshire for civilians without felony convictions. No significant legislative changes to the controlling statute, RSA 650-B:2, have occurred in the 2023-2026 period.
- Age restriction: 18+
What the Law Says
There are no New Hampshire state laws that regulate the possession of body armor. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 931) makes it illegal for a person convicted of a felony to possess body armor.
— N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 650-B:2
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Legal for civilians to purchase and possess body armor. No permit or registration required. New Hampshire has no state-level restrictions beyond the federal felon prohibition. All types and levels are legal. |
| Purchase | Legal to sell in-store and online. No special licensing or age restrictions. |
| Penalties | Felons face up to 3 years federal prison. New Hampshire does not have specific state-level enhanced sentencing for body armor. |
| Age Restriction | 18+ |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes to the controlling statute, RSA 650-B:2, have occurred in the 2023-2026 period.
Enforcement Reality
New Hampshire law makes it a Class B felony to commit or attempt to commit any felony while wearing body armor. This is a significant sentencing enhancement that is actively used by prosecutors.
A common mistake is to be unaware that the law applies to any felony, not just violent ones. Wearing body armor during the commission of a non-violent felony can still result in this additional charge.
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
Body Armor is legal with restrictions in New Hampshire. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
New Hampshire vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, buying body armor is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 49, and illegal in 0. New Hampshire falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Body Armor:
Body Armor Laws Guide
Understand the full picture of body armor law in New Hampshire and across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to buy Body Armor in New Hampshire?
What are the restrictions on buying body armor in New Hampshire?
What mistakes do people make with buying body armor in New Hampshire?
What is the age restriction for buying body armor in New Hampshire?
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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
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