If you live in New Mexico or are planning to visit, it’s important to understand your rights when it comes to carrying knives. Knife laws vary by state, and New Mexico is no exception. Whether you’re a collector, outdoor enthusiast, or simply want to carry a knife for self-defense, knowing what’s legal and what’s not can help you avoid trouble with the law.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding your knife rights in New Mexico.
Types of Knives and Their Legal Status
In New Mexico, the legality of owning and carrying a knife depends largely on the type of knife in question. Different knives are subject to different regulations, and understanding the classifications is key to staying within the law.
Common Knife Types and Definitions:
Folding knives: These are knives that have a blade that folds into the handle. Most folding knives are legal to carry openly or concealed, though there may be exceptions in certain areas.
Fixed-blade knives: These knives have a blade that doesn’t fold and are commonly used for hunting or survival purposes. These knives are generally legal to own and carry in New Mexico, but the size and purpose of the knife may influence whether it is legal to carry.
Switchblades: Also known as automatic knives, these knives open automatically when a button or switch is pressed. While federal law permits the sale and ownership of switchblades, New Mexico law restricts the concealed carry of automatic knives in some circumstances.
Dirks, daggers, and stilettos: These are double-edged knives that are often associated with stabbing. In New Mexico, carrying these knives may be more restricted compared to other types of knives due to their intended use as weapons.
General Knife Carry Laws in New Mexico
The key rule to remember when it comes to carrying knives in New Mexico is that open carry is typically legal, but concealed carry can be more restricted, depending on the type of knife and its intended use.
Open Carry: Openly carrying a knife in public is generally legal in New Mexico, but local ordinances may impose additional restrictions, especially in areas like schools, government buildings, or public events.
Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of knives is legal in New Mexico, but there are limitations. For example, if you are carrying a fixed-blade knife, it may be treated as a concealed weapon unless it’s properly secured in a sheath or carried for a legitimate purpose (like hunting or camping). Concealed carry of switchblades or other automatic knives may be more strictly regulated, especially if they are not carried in a lawful manner.
Intent to Use as a Weapon: If a knife is carried with the intent to use it as a weapon or for unlawful purposes (e.g., in the commission of a crime), the possession and carrying of the knife may result in criminal charges. New Mexico law generally requires proof of intent to use a weapon unlawfully before criminal charges can be brought.
Knife Laws in Specific Locations
Certain places in New Mexico have their own set of restrictions when it comes to knives, particularly in sensitive areas.
Schools and Educational Institutions: It is illegal to carry any knife on school grounds, unless you are authorized to do so for activities like hunting or academic use.
Public Buildings: Carrying knives in government buildings, courthouses, and similar public structures may be prohibited. It’s always a good idea to check specific laws for these areas before carrying a knife.
Private Property: Private property owners may impose their own restrictions on knives, even if they are legal under state law. Always respect “No Weapons” policies posted by businesses or property owners.
Age Restrictions
In New Mexico, minors (under the age of 18) are generally prohibited from carrying knives in public unless they are under the supervision of an adult or engaged in a lawful activity (like hunting or camping). Laws on knife possession for minors may vary slightly depending on local ordinances, so it’s important to understand your local jurisdiction’s rules.
Recent Changes in Law
As of recent years, New Mexico has made efforts to relax some restrictions on knives. For instance, the state has made it legal to own and possess switchblades (also known as automatic knives) in some situations. However, the carry and use of automatic knives may still be restricted depending on the specifics of the situation, such as whether the knife is concealed or carried in a restricted area.
When it comes to knife laws in New Mexico, the general rule is that ownership and open carry are largely unrestricted, while concealed carry and carrying certain types of knives like switchblades and daggers are more regulated. If you plan to carry a knife, it’s essential to understand both state laws and local ordinances that may apply in specific areas. Always check local laws before carrying a knife in public, and ensure you’re not violating any rules, especially regarding schools or government buildings.
By staying informed, you can legally enjoy your right to own and carry a knife in New Mexico without falling foul of the law.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/new-mexico/
[2] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/new-mexico-knife-laws/
[3] https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/knife-laws-by-state
[4] https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
[5] https://www.bladeaddict.com/pages/knife-laws-by-state
