We’ve had many high-ranking and number-one honors over the years (many of them year after year), but I’m not sure we’ve ever gotten this number one. We consistently rank high, in the top three at worst, but Ammo.com has ranked New Hampshire as the best State in the nation for firearms owners in 2024.
New Hampshire is a permitless carry state with incredibly relaxed gun laws (and low crime rates). Any citizen over 18 years old who is lawfully permitted to possess a firearm can open and conceal carry. New Hampshire residents can travel to 29 other states with a pistol and revolver license[110]. The state also honors all 50 states’ permits.
Residents won’t need to attend firearms safety courses, go through a fingerprinting process, or any other stringent tests to obtain a permit. The state also issues permits[111] to out-of-state residents (although they’re only valid in NH). Purchasers are required to pass federal background checks in accordance with federal law.
But what’s better is that New Hampshire currently doesn’t have a state sales tax[112]. So you won’t pay additional taxes on firearms purchases. Those finding themselves in a self-defense situation may be protected from prosecution if they are protecting life or property, with no duty to retreat[113].
Governor Chris Sununu recently signed into law a bill[114] that restricts the state’s law enforcement from enforcing federal laws that infringe on an individual’s right to gun ownership. Essentially, New Hampshire seems to be the best state for gun owners, with low crime rates and minimal restrictions on firearms and purchases.
You can see how your State fared here or check out their visually stimulating map with big, friendly numbers. California ranked 50, New York 49, and Vermont – how far it has fallen – is 31.
Ammo.com provides its methodology (ranking factors) along with footnotes to links on which it bases its research.
So, congrats to NH. Another number One.