Iowa Weapons & Self-Defense Laws (2026)

Body armor is legal with restrictions to purchase and wear in Iowa for civilians without felony convictions. There have been no significant state-level legislative changes concerning body armor in Iowa in recent years.

Iowa law restricts brass knuckles under Iowa Code §724.4, which prohibits carrying dangerous weapons including brass knuckles concealed on the person without a permit. Open carry may be allowed in some cases.

Butterfly knives are legal to own and carry in Iowa with no specific restrictions beyond general knife laws. No significant legislative changes in recent years.

Iowa allows permitless concealed carry for residents 21 and older who can legally possess firearms. Iowa Code §724.4A authorizes carrying a weapon without a permit.

Flamethrowers are legal to own and use in Iowa with no state-level restrictions. No significant legislative changes regarding flamethrowers in recent years.

Nunchucks are legal to own and possess in Iowa with no specific restrictions. Iowa law does not restrict the possession or carry of nunchucks.

Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Iowa without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. The most significant recent change was the enactment of House File 756 in 2021, which established constitutional carry, eliminating the permit requirement for both op...

Iowa permits possession and use of pepper spray for self-defense without specific restrictions under Iowa Code §724.4. There are no state limits on size or concentration.

Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in Iowa. Iowa Code does not restrict silencers, and their use for hunting is allowed under Iowa Code §481A.38.

Iowa Code §724.4 prohibits switchblade knives with blades over 3 inches. Possession and sale of switchblades exceeding this length are illegal, but smaller automatic knives may be legal. Law enforcement exceptions apply.

Tasers & Stun Guns are legal with restrictions in Iowa. No significant legislative changes since the law allowing for the carrying of stun guns without a permit was enacted.