New Mexico knife laws: When your pocket knife becomes more than just a tool

In your pocket, that little folding knife goes everywhere with you. Opening a package, slicing an apple during a hike in the Sandia Mountains… simple everyday tasks, right? Yet in New Mexico, the line between tool and weapon is blurrier than you might think. The knife laws in this southwestern state take a particular approach: fairly permissive for certain types of knives, frankly restrictive for others. Understanding New Mexico knife laws isn’t just about legal compliance, it’s about responsibility. Because even when the law allows the possession and carrying of many knives, let’s never forget that a knife remains a weapon, capable of inflicting serious harm. So what does the law actually say? And more importantly, how can you carry your knife legally in the Land of Enchantment?

New Mexico Knife Laws: What the Law Actually Says About Knives

Switchblades: Banned in All Forms

New Mexico doesn’t mince words when it comes to switchblades. Statute § 30-7-8 (Unlawful possession of switchblades) explicitly prohibits the possession, manufacture, sale, or even purchase of any knife that opens automatically. Specifically, the law targets “any knife which has a blade which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife.”

But that’s not all. The New Mexico legislature goes further and also includes “any knife having a blade which opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by any outward or centrifugal thrust or movement.”

In plain English, if your knife opens itself in any way, whether by button, gravity, or centrifugal movement, it’s illegal in New Mexico.

🚫 Banned in New Mexico:

• Automatic switchblades (push-button)
• Gravity knives
• Butterfly knives (balisongs)
• Any knife opening by centrifugal force

The butterfly knife case deserves special attention. In State v. Riddall (1991), the New Mexico Court of Appeals clearly established that a butterfly knife falls within the definition of a switchblade knife under statute § 30-7-8. It doesn’t matter that it requires a combination of gravity and centrifugal force to open, the law encompasses it in its prohibition.

Penalty: Unlawful possession of switchblades constitutes a petty misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum sentence of 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine up to $500.

Legal Knives: Pretty Much Everything Else

The good news? Outside of switchblades and related knives, New Mexico doesn’t specifically prohibit the possession of any type of knife based on its characteristics. You can legally own and, in most cases, carry:

✅ Legal in New Mexico:

• Traditional folding pocket knives
• Fixed-blade knives of any length
• Hunting knives
• Kitchen knives
• Daggers
• Dirk knives
• Bowie knives
• Machetes
• Katanas and swords

No blade length restrictions apply to these types of knives. A pocket knife with a blade of 3 inches and a fixed-blade knife of 12 inches enjoy the same legal status regarding possession.

Carrying Knives: Open Yes, Concealed… It Depends

Concealed Carry: A Regulated Zone

Here’s where it gets complicated. New Mexico clearly distinguishes open carry from concealed carry. Statute § 30-7-2 (Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon) states that it’s illegal to carry a concealed deadly weapon, except in specific cases.

But what exactly is a deadly weapon? Statute § 30-1-12 defines a deadly weapon as “any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded; or any weapon which is capable of producing death or great bodily harm.”

The definition then lists specific examples: daggers, brass knuckles, switchblade knives, bowie knives, poniards, butcher knives, dirk knives, and “all such weapons with which dangerous cuts can be given, or with which dangerous thrusts can be inflicted.”

Here’s the crucial point: an ordinary knife isn’t automatically considered a deadly weapon. According to New Mexico case law (notably State v. Nick, 2009), in a simple possession case, the jury must determine whether:

1. The object was carried with intent to use it as a weapon
2. It was capable of inflicting the wounds described in the statute

In other words, intent matters as much as the object itself.

Exceptions to Concealed Carry

Statute § 30-7-2 provides several exceptions where concealed carry of deadly weapons (including certain knives) is permitted:

✅ Concealed Carry Allowed:

• On your property (residence or land you own, lease, or occupy)
• In a private automobile, for lawful protection of yourself or others
• For certified peace officers
• For holders of a valid concealed handgun license issued by the department of public safety

This last exception deserves reflection. Can a concealed handgun license holder legally carry a knife (other than a switchblade) concealed? The statutes seem to allow it, though there’s a legislative contradiction between § 30-7-2 and § 30-7-8 that deserves clarification by the legislature.

Open Carry: Generally Allowed

New Mexico doesn’t specifically restrict open carry of knives. You can therefore carry most knives visibly, in a belt sheath, for example, without breaking the law.

Be careful though: this freedom does not apply to switchblades, whose even open carry remains prohibited (remember, their mere possession is illegal).

Restricted Locations: Where You Can’t Carry Your Knife

Even with a legal knife and an authorized carrying method, certain locations remain off-limits. Statute § 30-7-2.1 prohibits carrying of a deadly weapon on school premises, except for:

• Law enforcement officers on duty
• Students, instructors, or authorized personnel participating in military programs (ROTC)
• Persons conducting authorized programs involving carrying of weapons
• Persons over 19 years old in a private vehicle in the school parking lot, for lawful protection

🚫 Generally Restricted Zones:

• Schools and school grounds
• Government buildings (per local regulations)
• Certain municipal public parks
• Courthouses
• Museums and public libraries (per regulations)

⚠️ Important: Some New Mexico municipalities adopt more restrictive local ordinances. Always research local regulations before carrying a knife in a new jurisdiction.

A Knife Remains a Weapon: Responsibility First

Intent Transforms the Tool Into a Weapon

Here’s what we too often forget: no matter how perfectly legal your EDC knife is, if you use it threateningly or aggressively, you cross the line. New Mexico doesn’t play around with knife misuse.

Statute § 30-7-4 (Negligent use of a deadly weapon) penalizes anyone who endangers the safety of others by handling or using a deadly weapon negligently. Result? Even a harmless pocket knife can land you in trouble if you handle it carelessly.

And what about carrying of a deadly weapon with unlawful intent? Statute § 30-7-11 makes it a fourth degree felony, far more serious than a simple petty misdemeanor.

Knives and Self-Defense

New Mexico recognizes the right to self-defense. Statute § 30-2-7 (Justifiable homicide by citizen) specifies circumstances where use of force, including with a deadly weapon, may be justified:

• Necessary defense of one’s life, family, or property
• Lawful defense against a threat of serious crime with imminent danger
• Lawful attempt to apprehend someone who committed a felony

But be warned: even in self-defense situations, knife use will be scrutinized carefully. New Mexico courts examine the intent of the individual in possession and exact circumstances. Just because you legally carry a knife doesn’t mean its defensive use will automatically be considered justified.

Comparison with Neighboring States

Texas: Much More Permissive

Cross the border east, and you discover a whole different world. Since 2017, Texas has legalized the possession and carrying (open and concealed) of almost all types of knives, including switchblades, daggers, and even throwing knives. No more length limits, no more switchblade bans. Texas chose total freedom (except in a few sensitive locations like schools).

Arizona: Almost Absolute Freedom

As we discussed in our article on knives in Arizona, this neighboring state adopts one of the most permissive legislations in the country. Switchblades? Perfectly legal. Concealed carry? Allowed for anyone over 21. Arizona trusts its citizens to exercise their freedom responsibly.

Colorado: The Balance

To the north, Colorado takes a middle position. Switchblades have been legal since 2017, concealed carry is authorized for blades less than 3.5 inches, but restrictions remain in certain locations and for minors.

These comparisons show how much state laws vary. What’s perfectly legal in Arizona can get you in trouble in New Mexico. Hence the importance of knowing precisely the knife laws in each state.

Do you know Colorado knife laws ?

Practical Tips for Carrying a Knife in New Mexico

Choose Your Knife Wisely

If you live in New Mexico or plan to visit, opt for a classic folding knife with manual opening. A good pocket knife with a blade of 3 to 4 inches meets most daily needs without posing legal problems.

🔪 Our Recommendations:

• Folding pocket knife with manual opening (thumb stud or nail nick)
• Fixed-blade knife in a visible belt sheath if needed
• Absolutely avoid switchblades, butterfly knives, and gravity knives

Carry It Responsibly

• Open carry: Prefer this option for fixed-blade knives. A quality leather belt sheath clearly signals you’re carrying a tool, not a concealed weapon.
• Concealed carry: If you carry a pocket knife in your pocket, ensure it doesn’t fall into the deadly weapons category per statute § 30-1-12 criteria. A small pocket knife for utility purposes should normally pose no problem.
• Intent: Remember that intent counts. Carry your knife as a tool, not as a weapon.

Know Your Limits

Never carry your knife:

• On school grounds
• In a government building
• In a courthouse
• In any location where signs explicitly prohibit it

And be aware that during interactions with law enforcement, immediately and politely disclose that you’re carrying a knife. Transparency avoids many misunderstandings.

Morta: When Your Knife Tells a Story

Beyond the law, there’s the philosophy of the knife you carry. At Couteaux Morta, we believe a good knife transcends its simple utility function. Morta wood, fossilized for 5,000 years in the Brière marshlands, gives our handles a special soul.

True, our knives aren’t made in New Mexico. They come from Brière, France, where knife-making craftsmanship respects centuries-old traditions.

But carrying a Morta knife in New Mexico means carrying a piece of millennial history, a noble object that transcends borders.

Our folding knives with manual opening naturally comply with New Mexico knife laws. No automatic mechanism, no gravity, just the beauty of a clean motion that releases a quality steel blade.

For fixed-blade knife enthusiasts, our models are carried proudly in open carry, in a sheath befitting their nobility. A Morta fixed-blade knife isn’t a weapon, it’s a life companion, a tool that follows you in daily adventures and wilderness escapes.

New Mexico Knife Laws: Freedom with Respect

New Mexico takes a nuanced approach to knife laws. Yes, switchblades are banned, a restriction that seems outdated to many, but remains inscribed in the statute. Yes, concealed carry of certain knives is regulated. But for the most part, New Mexico gives you the freedom to own and carry a knife suited to your needs.

This freedom comes with responsibility, however. A knife, even the smallest pocket knife, remains a potentially deadly weapon if misused. The law in New Mexico trusts you to carry your knife as a tool, not as a threat.

So before slipping that folding knife into your pocket or attaching that fixed-blade knife to your belt, ask yourself: why am I carrying this knife? The answer should always be the same: for its utility, for its beauty, for the connection it creates between your hands and a millennial tradition.

Note: While this article aims to provide accurate information based on official New Mexico statutes, laws can change. Always verify current regulations with official sources before making any decisions about possession or carrying of knives in New Mexico. When in doubt, consult an attorney specializing in criminal law.

Official Sources Consulted:

• New Mexico Statutes § 30-7-8 (Unlawful possession of switchblades)
• New Mexico Statutes § 30-7-2 (Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon)
• New Mexico Statutes § 30-1-12 (Definitions – Deadly weapon)
• New Mexico Statutes § 30-7-1 (Carrying a deadly weapon)
• State v. Riddall, 811 P.2d 576 (1991) – New Mexico Court of Appeals
• State v. Nick, 218 P.3d 868 (2009) – New Mexico Supreme Court
• American Knife & Tool Institute – New Mexico State Laws 

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