Yes, blank firing guns are legal in New Hampshire but subject to state and federal firearm laws. New Hampshire has no specific statute banning blank-firing replicas, yet they must comply with RSA 159:16’s prohibition on carrying dangerous weapons in public without lawful purpose. Local municipalities, such as Manchester and Nashua, may impose additional restrictions via ordinances regulating public display or discharge.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in New Hampshire
- Dangerous Weapon Prohibition: RSA 159:16 criminalizes carrying blank-firing guns in public if deemed likely to cause alarm, mirroring restrictions on imitation firearms under RSA 159:19.
- Federal Imitation Firearm Law: Compliance with 15 U.S.C. § 500 requires blank guns to have bright orange plugs or markings visible from 50 feet, enforced by the ATF.
- Local Discharge Bans: Cities like Portsmouth prohibit discharging blank guns within 100 yards of a dwelling or public space under municipal noise ordinances (e.g., Portsmouth Code § 10-14).
Blank guns sold in NH must also adhere to ATF’s 2022 guidance on replica firearms, mandating clear labeling and retailer verification of purchaser age (18+ for blanks). Violations may trigger misdemeanor charges under RSA 634:2. Retailers should verify compliance with the NH Department of Safety’s 2026-issued guidance on replica firearm sales.