North Dakota Weapons & Self-Defense Laws (2026)

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

North Dakota Century Code § 62.1-01-01 defines prohibited weapons to include brass knuckles. Possession, sale, or manufacture is illegal except for law enforcement or military use.

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

North Dakota allows permitless concealed carry for residents 18 and older who are not prohibited persons, under NDCC § 62.1-04-01. This law took effect August 1, 2017.

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

Nunchucks are legal to own and possess in North Dakota with no specific restrictions. No significant changes in recent years.

Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in North Dakota without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. North Dakota became a constitutional carry state for concealed carry in 2017, but this did not significantly change the state's open carry laws.

North Dakota allows possession and use of pepper spray for self-defense without state-imposed restrictions on size or concentration. There are no age restrictions, but misuse can lead to criminal penalties under assault statutes.

Suppressors / Silencers are legal with restrictions in North Dakota. North Dakota does not have state laws restricting suppressors beyond federal requirements.

North Dakota does not have any specific laws banning switchblades or automatic knives. Possession and sale are legal, and there are no age restrictions or special regulations for these knives.

Tasers & Stun Guns are legal with restrictions in North Dakota. North Dakota became the first state to legalize the use of armed drones by law enforcement, including those equipped with tasers.