Is Brass Knuckles Legal in New Mexico? (2026)
No. In New Mexico, brass knuckles is prohibited. New Mexico law, under NMSA 1978, Section 30-7-2, explicitly prohibits the carrying of 'metal knuckles' as a deadly weapon. This statute makes it a misdemeanor to carry such an item, indicating a clear prohibition against these devices in New Mexico..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- New Mexico
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-24
Brass Knuckles laws in New Mexico
New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) 1978, Section 30-7-2, titled 'Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon,' directly addresses the legality of brass knuckles. The statute states that 'Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon consists of carrying a deadly weapon concealed on one's person, or carrying a deadly weapon in a vehicle, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than at one's own dwelling or land, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than at one's own fixed place of business, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private automobile or other private conveyance, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a public conveyance, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private aircraft, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private boat, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private motor home, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private recreational vehicle.' While the statute broadly defines 'deadly weapon,' NMSA 1978, Section 30-1-12(B) defines 'deadly weapon' to include 'any weapon which is capable of producing death or great bodily harm, including but not limited to any firearm, blackjack, bludgeon, metal knuckles, or any other weapon of like character.' The explicit inclusion of 'metal knuckles' in the definition of a deadly weapon, combined with the prohibition on carrying deadly weapons in most public and private settings, effectively makes their possession illegal for the general public in New Mexico. There are no provisions for permits or exceptions for self-defense for civilians. Exceptions are typically made only for law enforcement officers or military personnel in the performance of their official duties. The intent of the possessor is not a factor in determining legality; mere possession in most contexts is sufficient for a charge, making them a prohibited item.
Frequently asked questions
Is brass knuckles legal in New Mexico for travelers?
For travelers visiting New Mexico, brass knuckles is currently prohibited. New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) 1978, Section 30-7-2, titled 'Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon,' directly addresses the legality of brass knuckles. The statute states that 'Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon consists of carrying a deadly weapon concealed on one's person, or carrying a deadly weapon in a vehicle, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than at one's own dwelling or land, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than at one's own fixed place of business, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private automobile or other private conveyance, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a public conveyance, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private aircraft, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private boat, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private motor home, or carrying a deadly weapon in any place other than in a private recreational vehicle.' While the statute broadly defines 'deadly weapon,' NMSA 1978, Section 30-1-12(B) defines 'deadly weapon' to include 'any weapon which is capable of producing death or great bodily harm, including but not limited to any firearm, blackjack, bludgeon, metal knuckles, or any other weapon of like character.' The explicit inclusion of 'metal knuckles' in the definition of a deadly weapon, combined with the prohibition on carrying deadly weapons in most public and private settings, effectively makes their possession illegal for the general public in New Mexico. There are no provisions for permits or exceptions for self-defense for civilians. Exceptions are typically made only for law enforcement officers or military personnel in the performance of their official duties. The intent of the possessor is not a factor in determining legality; mere possession in most contexts is sufficient for a charge, making them a prohibited item.
Do I need a permit for brass knuckles in New Mexico?
New Mexico does not specifically require a permit for brass knuckles, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport brass knuckles through New Mexico?
Transport laws for brass knuckles in New Mexico depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in New Mexico, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for brass knuckles violations in New Mexico?
Penalties for brass knuckles violations in New Mexico vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.