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.
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.
Real-World Scenarios: Brass Knuckles in New Hampshire
Can You Fly With Brass Knuckles Out of New Hampshire?
Since brass knuckles is illegal in New Hampshire, bringing it to the airport compounds your legal exposure. You're now dealing with both state law and federal jurisdiction. Don't do it.
Can You Cross State Lines With Brass Knuckles From New Hampshire?
This is where people get burned. New Hampshire treats brass knuckles as illegal, but neighboring Maine treats it as legal. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the New Hampshire/Maine border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where brass knuckles is illegal, you're a target.
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 →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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.
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