Can You Carry Your Cali Carry in the Land of Enchantment?
So, you've got a California CCW, and you're eyeing New Mexico like a hungry coyote stares at a roadrunner. Good news is, New Mexico is generally pretty chill about firearms. Bad news is, it’s not California. Let’s break down the Wild West of concealed carry laws.
New Mexico: The Free-Spirited Cousin of Gun Laws
New Mexico is known for its open spaces, friendly people, and... surprisingly lax gun laws. It’s one of those states where you can openly carry a handgun without a permit. Yep, you heard that right. You can stroll down the main street of Albuquerque with your sidearm on your hip, as long as it’s not concealed. But we're not here to talk about open carry, are we? We're talking about your precious California CCW.
The Cold Hard Truth: California CCW in New Mexico
Short answer: It depends.
New Mexico does recognize concealed carry permits from other states, but there’s a catch. It has to be a state that has a reciprocity agreement with New Mexico. And guess what? California is not one of them. So, if you're planning a road trip from the Golden State to the Land of Enchantment with your trusty sidearm, you might want to reconsider packing it.
What Can You Do?
If you're dead set on carrying concealed in New Mexico, your best bet is to obtain a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL). It's not overly complicated, but it does require some paperwork, training, and waiting.
Remember: Even with a New Mexico CHL, there are still places where carrying a concealed weapon is prohibited. So, do your homework before you head out.
How to...
- How to find out if your state has reciprocity with New Mexico? Check the New Mexico State Police website or use a reciprocity lookup tool.
- How to apply for a New Mexico CHL? Visit the New Mexico State Police website for application forms and requirements.
- How to find out where concealed carry is prohibited in New Mexico? Consult New Mexico state laws or check with local authorities.
- How to stay safe while traveling with firearms? Secure your firearm properly, obey all state and federal laws, and consider taking a firearms safety course.
- How to avoid getting into trouble with the law? Know and obey all gun laws in the states you’re visiting. Ignorance is not a defense.
So, there you have it. New Mexico might be a gun-friendly state, but it doesn't play nice with California when it comes to concealed carry. Plan accordingly, and enjoy your trip!