Hawaii Self-Defense Laws

Hawaii allows the use of force for self-protection when a person reasonably believes it is immediately necessary to protect against unlawful force.

• You may use force when you reasonably believe it is immediately necessary to protect yourself against unlawful force by another person.
• The force used must be proportional to the threat. Deadly force is only permitted when you reasonably believe it is necessary to protect against death, serious bodily harm, kidnapping, rape, or forcible sodomy.
• There is a duty to retreat if you can do so safely, except in your own dwelling (Castle Doctrine).

Hawaii recognizes a limited Castle Doctrine. You have no duty to retreat when you are in your own dwelling.

• You are not required to retreat before using force when you are in your own home.
• This applies only to your dwelling, not your vehicle or place of business.
• You must still use proportional force. The Castle Doctrine does not automatically justify deadly force.

Pepper spray is legal in Hawaii for self-defense purposes. No permit is required to purchase or carry.

• Pepper spray (OC spray) is legal to purchase and carry for self-defense.
• No permit or license is required.
• Must be 18 years or older to purchase.
• Cannot be used offensively or to commit a crime.
• Some restrictions apply to the concentration and canister size.

CO2-powered launchers like Byrna and PepperBall devices are NOT classified as firearms under Hawaii law. They are legal to purchase and own without a permit.

• Byrna launchers and similar CO2-powered devices are not classified as firearms in Hawaii.
• No firearm permit, registration, or background check is required.
• Legal to purchase and own for persons 18 years and older.
• Cannot be carried concealed in certain restricted areas (government buildings, schools, airports).
• Using any device, including non-lethal launchers, to threaten or harm someone unlawfully is a criminal offense.

Hawaii prohibits certain weapons. Ensure your self-defense tools are not on the prohibited list.

• Switchblade knives, butterfly knives, and metal knuckles are prohibited.
• Electric guns (TASER and stun devices) are legal to own, with the conditions described below.
• Non-lethal CO2 launchers are NOT on the prohibited list.

Electric guns are legal to own in Hawaii, but you cannot buy one online. The law requires an in-person background check, a signed declaration, and a safety briefing at a licensed dealer's store before the device changes hands.

• You do not need a permit to own an electric gun. The licence requirement applies to the dealer, not to you.
• You must be at least 21 years old. It is unlawful to transfer an electric gun to anyone under 21.
• The dealer must run a criminal history background check, show you the printed result, and witness you sign a declaration under penalty of law.
• The dealer must give you an informational briefing covering safe handling, the risks and limits of the device, state law, and proper disposal. You sign a certification that it happened.
• The transfer has to take place at the dealer's designated place of business. That is why we sell electric guns in the shop and not through the website.
• Use is limited to self-defense, defense of another person, or protection of property.