Is New Mexico a Constitutional Carry State?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, New Mexico is a constitutional carry state as of 2023. You can carry a concealed firearm without a permit if you're legally allowed to possess firearms.
What This Means for You
New Mexico's constitutional carry law means you don't need a concealed carry permit to carry a pistol you build or buy. However, you still need to follow all federal laws regarding firearm construction and possession. The state still issues permits for reciprocity with other states.
The Detail
New Mexico enacted constitutional carry legislation that allows anyone who can legally possess a firearm to carry it concealed without obtaining a permit first. This applies to both purchased firearms and those you build yourself, provided they comply with all applicable federal and state laws.
The constitutional carry provision doesn't eliminate all carry restrictions. You still cannot carry in prohibited locations like federal buildings, schools, and other designated areas. Private property owners can still restrict carry on their premises. Age restrictions also apply, and you must still meet the same legal requirements that would qualify you for a traditional permit.
New Mexico continues to issue concealed carry licenses for residents who want them, primarily for reciprocity purposes when traveling to other states. Many constitutional carry states maintain their permit systems for this reason. If you plan to travel with your firearms, research the laws of your destination states carefully.
While you can carry without a permit, all federal laws still apply to firearm construction and possession. This includes regulations around short-barreled rifles, suppressors, and other NFA items. State laws regarding prohibited persons, domestic violence restraining orders, and other disqualifying factors remain in effect.
I recommend verifying current law details with New Mexico's official state resources or consulting with a local attorney familiar with firearms law, as legislation can change and local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
Build Impact
Constitutional carry makes your home-built pistols immediately carriable without permit delays, but doesn't change any construction requirements. You still need to ensure your builds comply with federal guidelines and any applicable state restrictions on features or configurations.