Yes, crossbows are legal in New Hampshire for hunting and recreational use under specific conditions.
Crossbows are permitted for hunting deer and turkey during the regular firearm seasons, as well as during the archery season, provided the user holds a valid hunting license. Recreational target shooting is also lawful, but municipalities may impose local ordinances governing discharge locations. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFGD) enforces these rules, with recent 2026 compliance directives emphasizing mandatory hunter education for first-time crossbow users.
Key Regulations for Crossbows in New Hampshire
- Hunting Seasons: Crossbows may only be used during archery and firearm seasons; they are prohibited during the muzzleloader season unless explicitly authorized by NHFGD emergency orders.
- Minimum Draw Weight: A minimum draw weight of 75 pounds is required for hunting, as stipulated under RSA 212:26, to ensure ethical kills.
- Local Restrictions: Municipalities like Portsmouth and Manchester enforce additional discharge rules, including designated shooting ranges and noise ordinances, which may limit public land use.
Violations of these regulations are enforced by NHFGD conservation officers and local law enforcement, with penalties ranging from fines to revocation of hunting privileges. Always verify municipal ordinances before operating a crossbow within city limits.