Is Brass Knuckles Legal in New Mexico? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in New Mexico as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: There have been no significant changes to New Mexico's law regarding brass knuckles in the 2023-2026 period. The state's focus has been on other gun control measures.
Quick Answer
In New Mexico, brass knuckles are classified as prohibited weapons under the New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-7-2. Possession, sale, or manufacture of brass knuckles is illegal except for law enforcement or military use.
What the Law Says
New Mexico law prohibits carrying a concealed deadly weapon, including brass knuckles.
— New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-7-2
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for law enforcement or military personnel. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture. |
| Penalties | Class B misdemeanor; penalties may include fines and imprisonment up to 6 months. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession itself is prohibited). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
There have been no significant changes to New Mexico's law regarding brass knuckles in the 2023-2026 period. The state's focus has been on other gun control measures.
Enforcement Reality
New Mexico law defines brass knuckles as a deadly weapon. Carrying them concealed is illegal without a permit, and using them in a crime carries serious penalties.
A common mistake is to believe that because ownership is not explicitly illegal, they can be carried without restriction. However, the concealed carry laws apply, and any criminal use is a felony.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across New Mexico. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Brass Knuckles in New Mexico
Can You Fly With Brass Knuckles Out of New Mexico?
Since brass knuckles is illegal in New Mexico, bringing it to the airport compounds your legal exposure. You're now dealing with both state law and federal jurisdiction. Don't do it.
Can You Cross State Lines With Brass Knuckles From New Mexico?
This is where people get burned. New Mexico treats brass knuckles as illegal, but neighboring Colorado treats it as restricted. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the New Mexico/Colorado border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where brass knuckles is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in New Mexico. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
New Mexico vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying brass knuckles is fully legal in 2 states, restricted in 8, and illegal in 40. New Mexico falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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