If you live in New Mexico or plan to visit, and you carry a pocket knife, it’s important to understand the state’s laws. While New Mexico is more relaxed than many other states, there are still rules you need to follow—especially when it comes to carrying knives in public or keeping them hidden.
This article will explain what types of pocket knives are legal in New Mexico, where you can carry them, and what to avoid so you stay on the right side of the law.
Can You Own Pocket Knives in New Mexico?
Yes. In New Mexico, you’re allowed to own most types of knives. That includes pocket knives, Bowie knives, and daggers. But some knives are not allowed. For example, switchblades and butterfly knives are banned because they open automatically and are seen as dangerous.
Open Carry of Pocket Knives
New Mexico allows you to carry a knife openly—this means the knife is visible. Whether it’s in a sheath on your belt or clipped to your pocket, it’s legal to carry it out in the open. Pocket knives are especially common and generally accepted.
There are no special permits needed for open carry of knives in most public places. However, you still need to be careful about where you carry them.
Concealed Carry Rules
This is where things get a little strict. New Mexico law does not allow concealed carry of certain knives that are seen as deadly weapons. These include:
Bowie knives
Daggers
Switchblades (which are already banned)
However, most everyday pocket knives do not fall into the deadly weapon category. A pocket knife used for regular tasks and without features like spring-loaded blades is usually legal to carry in your pocket.
What Makes a Knife a “Deadly Weapon”?
In New Mexico, a deadly weapon is any object that can cause serious harm or death. Some knives are clearly made for fighting or self-defense, and these are often treated as deadly weapons.
Pocket knives are usually not considered deadly weapons—unless they are designed for combat or have rapid-opening features. The law often looks at how the knife is used and the intent of the person carrying it.
Important Court Ruling: State v. Nick
The New Mexico Supreme Court ruled in a case called State v. Nick that regular pocket knives are not automatically deadly weapons. This case helped set the standard that most folding pocket knives are legal, unless used or intended as a weapon.
Places Where Knives Are Not Allowed
Even if your knife is legal, you can’t carry it everywhere. Here are some places where knives are banned in New Mexico:
Schools: No knives of any kind are allowed on school property.
Public transport: Buses, trains, and similar places often ban knives, even pocket knives.
Government buildings: These may also have their own rules, so always check first.
New Mexico allows people to own and openly carry pocket knives without much trouble. However, hiding certain types of knives or carrying them into schools or public transport areas can get you into legal trouble. Most everyday pocket knives are legal and safe to carry—as long as they’re not used as weapons.
By knowing and following these simple laws, you can carry your pocket knife in New Mexico with confidence and peace of mind.
