If youre wondering if brass knuckles are legal in your state still or what the consequences are of carrying, possession, using or selling is, then check current laws with your particular questions. Brass knuckles are pieces of metal shaped to fit around the knuckles and are weapons used in hand-to-hand combat. This is because brass knuckles concentrate the force of your punch into a small area, which can easily break your fingers. The law made it illegal to possess, sell, or distribute brass knuckles. Under the law, it is illegal to possess, manufacture, transport, repair, or sell brass knuckles; to do so is a class A misdemeanor. Brass knuckles are legal in Texas. Brass knuckles are legal in South Carolina. This law is specific to brass knuckles. Brass knuckles are legal in Delaware if one has a permit. The first offense is a misdemeanor and faces a punishment of a fine up to $750 and up to six months in jail; the second and subsequent offense is a felony and faces a fine of up to $2,000 and up to two years imprisonment. ago Late to the party, from New Orleans. Please ensure you get to know the laws in the state you reside. The penalty for such is up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. In addition, you may be subject to criminal charges if you use brass knuckles to injure someone. 46804. Virginia 16. Brass knuckles are typically treated like other weapons such as knives and firearms in other countries. Never use brass knuckles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. California imposes a strict ban on all kinds of brass knuckles, whether they are metal or plastic. Failure to adhere to this law will result in a Class A misdemeanor. Brass knuckles are legal in Arizona. Failure to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor and lead to a fine of up to $1000 and up to three years of imprisonment. Also, it is illegal to carry concealed brass knuckles. Brass knuckles are legal in South Carolina, and one does not need a concealed carry permit. Please check with your local authorities to obtain the latest up-to-date information on the legality ofbrass knuckles in your area. Brass knuckles are illegal in Colorado. K.(1) The provisions of this Section shall not prohibit a retired justice or judge of the supreme court, courts of appeal, district courts, parish courts, juvenile courts, family courts, and city courts from possessing and concealing a handgun on their person provided that such retired justice or judge is certified by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training and has on their person valid identification showing proof of their status as a retired justice or judge. Always follow your states brass knuckle laws. 38, 1; Acts 1992, No. Brass knuckles are legal in Georgia. In Minnesota, brass knuckles are illegal. No matter where brass knuckles are considered legal, they almost always need a concealed carry license. In West Virginia, brass knuckles are legal with a permit. In an apparent attempt to suggest that they are pieces of art, some people sell brass knuckle jewelry to be worn as a necklace. Carrying a concealed weapon without a concealed carry permit is illegal and can result in fines and imprisonment. In North Dakota, brass knuckles are legal with a permit. Brass knuckles are illegal in Illinois. No blade of a rescue knife shall exceed five inches in length. It is also important to remember that even in states where brass knuckles are legal, they can still be used in self-defense, and you could still be charged with a crime if you use them to commit a crime. Many brass knuckle laws were implemented in the mid- to late-1900s as these weapons became more popular, and the laws can vary considerably from state to state. Theyre hardened knuckles that go over your own fingers like a set of rings that is welded together. There are many conflicting articles out there, but the fact is that it depends on where you are. Some states only ban metallic knuckles, while others ban hardened knuckles of any kind. Views on this weapon differ from one state to the next. Of these twenty nine states where brass knuckles are legal, the twelve states where brass knuckles are legal without a permit are Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. It is illegal to sell and carry brass knuckles in New Hampshire. Other states may also impose higher penalties on those who possess or use brass knuckles, including jail time and hefty fines. They are completely illegal in some states for example, you cannot sell, possess or use brass knuckles in Illinois, Vermont, California or Michigan. Illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities LSA-R.S. Second, using brass knuckles for self defense can result in criminal charges. Brass knuckles are legal in South Dakota. (1) The intentional concealment of any firearm, or other instrumentality customarily used or intended for probable use as a dangerous weapon, on one's person; or, (2) The ownership, possession, custody or use of any firearm, or other instrumentality customarily used as a dangerous weapon, at any time by an enemy alien; or, (3) The ownership, possession, custody or use of any tools, or dynamite, or nitroglycerine, or explosives, or other instrumentality customarily used by thieves or burglars at any time by any person with the intent to commit a crime; or. Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Washington D.C., Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington. Hawaii 4. In states where brass knuckles are not illegal, their use and possession may be regulated. Arizona 2. Violators can face up to one year in prison and a $1,000 fine. They are designed so that the users punch has a more concentrated force with a smaller and harder contact point. Is it illegal to carry around brass knuckles? Failing to adhere to this law can result in a misdemeanor. So if youre thinking of using brass knuckles for self-defense, be sure to practice with them first so that you know how to use them properly and avoid breaking your fingers. (ii) A school official or employee acting during the normal course of his employment or a student acting under the direction of such school official or employee. The law does add that any similar instrument by the use of which injury could be inflicted upon the person or property of any other person, commits a Class B misdemeanor. In Rhode Island, brass knuckles are illegal. However, brass knuckles can be considered a dangerous weapon; therefore, it is up to the courts to determine this and how the knuckles were used, and if the owner had criminal intent. If you carry them outside of your home state, youll want to check local state regulations governing brass knuckles. Almost everyone knows what brass knuckles are, and theyre also called knuckle dusters and knucks. WeDO NOTsell this product due to California's strict ban on Brass Knuckles. If you are caught carrying brass knuckles, you may be arrested and charged with a Class A misdemeanor. Several states have also passed laws banning brass knuckles. As of 2019, a permit is no longer required to carry concealed weapons in Kentucky, this includes brass knuckles. Please try again. This includes selling, possessing, carrying, purchasing, manufacturing, repairing, and transporting brass knuckles, whether they are made from metal or plastic. Brass knuckles are legal in Maryland with a permit. An attorney can assist in resolving any legal issues you may be facing. View our newest version here . In the event you are in such a situation, consider contacting a qualifiedcriminal defense attorneynear you. illegal to carry them hidden or concealed. The punishment will depend on where the person was found with brass knuckles, but the punishment ranges from ninety days to one-year imprisonment and a fine between $1,0003,000. This can lead to increased penalties, including time in prison between two and ten years. Some states define a weapon as concealed if even a portion of it is hidden from sight such as because only one end of the knuckles is tucked into a pocket. The greatest restrictions are in Minnesota, Illinois, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Alaska, Texas, Washington, Nevada, California and Arkansas. If one does, one can be found guilty of a misdemeanor and face a fine of up to $1,000 and up to three years imprisonment. This includes anything shaped like a brass knuckle, including jewelry, bags, pendants, or necklaces. The 21 states where brass knuckles are illegal are Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington. Theyre not necessarily deadly, but they can cause some serious damage, from broken bones to concussions. Ownership of brass knuckles with a valid permit is legally allowed in seventeen states, but there may be restrictions on where they can be carried or used often only within ones own home so it is important to check local laws before attempting to obtain one. The application process can take several days or weeks to complete depending on the jurisdiction, and sometimes fingerprinting and background checks are conducted before approval. Failure to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 and up to one year in prison. Indiana 6. You're all set! Failure to adhere to this law will lead to a fine between $50 and $1000 or up to six months of imprisonment. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. To supply our DIY crafters/creators with the products they need for their next crafting projects. 14:95 . The dubious nature of brass knuckles' legality is because the law does not specifically enumerate their status. Massachusetts 9. Washington. Unlawfully possessing brass knuckles is a class A misdemeanor. If you have a concealed carry permit in a state that allows for brass knuckles, then having it in your car, such as in the glove box, is usually legal. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Disclaimer: These codes may not be the most recent version. 953, 1; Acts 2003, No. Is a permit required to carry brass knuckles. Media and video games frequently feature criminals using brass knuckles, glamorizing them to some extent. Nevada 13. Rhode Island 19. Brass knuckles are legal to own in Nebraska; however, they are illegal to carry concealed unless the individual has a license or permit to do so. Being struck with brass knuckles can inflict broken bones, cuts, concussions, and injuries to the eyes and nose. (1) The intentional concealment of any firearm, or other instrumentality customarily used or intended for probable use as a dangerous weapon, on one's person; or (2) The ownership, possession, custody or use of any firearm, or other instrumentality customarily used as a dangerous weapon, at any time by an enemy alien; or In states where brass knuckles are legal, they can be used in self-defense, but they cannot be used to commit a crime. Illinois 6. They can be used to inflict tremendous pain and damage on an opponent during a fight or attack. Brass knuckles are illegal in Arkansas. Some states only ban metallic knuckles, while others ban hardened knuckles of any kind. The first use of this type of weapon can be traced back to the gladiators who designed their gloves to increase their striking power. Brass knuckles are legal in Utah. Louisiana may have more current or accurate information. But I am not sure whether knuckles made of . Its just six months in prison in Massachusetts, Nevada and New Hampshire, but fines can go as high as $2,000. Brass knuckles were prohibited in Missouri until 2022. Brass knuckles are strictly prohibited in Tennessee. What are brass Knuckles? They should also look into the laws in any states theyre considering traveling to with their knuckles in tow. She specializes in family law and estate law and has mediated family custody issues. 159, 1. 492, 1; Acts 1986, No. They can become dangerous, however, when placed on a human hand. Under 21 it is illegal to conceal a non-pocket knife. Alaska 2. Louisiana, which allows concealed weapons with a permit, but no laws specifically address brass knuckles. Minnesota 11. In California, for example, it is illegal to possess or sell brass knuckles. Copyright 2022, IsaLegal - All Rights Reserved. This applies in states where concealing brass knuckle weapons is illegal. They are illegal to possess in some states, while others have no restrictions. One of the most common restrictions is age. However, having it out in the open may not be under the law. Ways To Avoid Brass Knuckle Laws. Ohio 14. The retired law enforcement officer must be qualified annually in the use of firearms by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training and have proof of such qualification. Brass knuckles are illegal in Washington. Brass knuckles are illegal in Maine. The law in Oklahoma explicitly bars people from carrying brass knuckles on their person, purse, or in any other containerconcealed or unconcealed; failure to abide by this can lead to a misdemeanor conviction and face a fine between $100250 and up to thirty days in jail for the first offense and a fine between $250500 and between thirty days and three months in jail. This includes anything shaped like a brass knuckle, including jewelry, bags, pendants, or necklaces. Copyright 2023, Thomson Reuters. Therefore possession they usually will not come with serious consequences. Some states have laws that prohibit the use of brass knuckles. Just because there are companies selling brass knuckles in areas where theyre illegal or a grey line, doesnt mean you arent held responsible for buying them. Brass knuckles are made of metal or plastic (Kitty Knuckles) shaped to fit around the knuckles and are weapons used in combat. I've been wanting to make a pair of knuckle dusters out of some spare wood I have lying around. Baton Rouge. Brass knuckles are legal in Mississippi if one has a permit. Brass knuckles are legal are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Michigan 10. (1) Whoever commits the crime of illegal carrying of weapons shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars, or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. The simple answer is yes, brass knuckles can easily break your fingers if youre not careful. You can explore additional available newsletters here. It is up to the courts to determine if your brass knuckles qualify as a weapon on a case by case basis. Used on one or both hands, brass knuckles are illegal in most states. West Virginia 17. Brass knuckles are typically considered to be a deadly weapon. By FindLaw Staff | Utah 12. If one conceals brass knuckles without a permit, they can be convicted of a class I misdemeanor and face a punishment of imprisonment up to one year and a fine up to $1,000. Failing to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor. This is the case, for example, in South DAmato, Indiana. These provisions shall not apply to sheriffs and their deputies and state and city police who are not actually discharging their official duties, provided that such persons are full time, active, and certified by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training and have on their persons valid identification as duly commissioned law enforcement officers. If convicted, the punishment is a fine between $501,000 and confinement in county jail between ninety days and one year. However, this Subsection shall not apply to a retired justice or judge who is medically retired based upon any mental impairment. Brass knuckles are legal in Alabama, but only with a permit. Brass knuckles are metal gloves with protruding knuckles, which can be used for striking an opponent. 14:94 . Brass knuckles are illegal in Colorado. Brass knuckles are legal in North Carolina with a permit. Brass knuckles are illegal in some states, but theyre legal in others. If one is caught unlawfully carrying brass knuckles, they can face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $500. However, there are some things you need to know before you use brass knuckles for self defense. Brass knuckles are illegal in Massachusetts. 844, 1; Acts 1994, 3rd Ex. Its a felony in Delaware to carry brass knuckles without a concealed weapon permit, even for a first-time offense. New Hampshire 14. Tennessee 20. Florida 5. Maine 8. For example, states such as California, Michigan, Illinois, and Vermont prohibit the possession, sale, or use of brass knuckles. South Dakota, Arizona, Indiana, and Louisiana have relaxed regulations, though. Brass knuckles are legal in Iowa. North Carolina 12. When it comes to self-defense, brass knuckles are a popular choice for many people. Prior to this law, Texans who had brass knuckles faced a class A misdemeanor charge, punishable with up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $4,000. Cookie Notice At a Glance: Effective August 1, 2022, the Louisiana law no longer prohibited "the intentional concealment" on one's person of any automatic/switchblade knife. Outside the U.S., countries like Switzerland make buying, trading, or the possession of brass knuckles against the law. Anyone who carries concealed about his person brass knuckles, slingshots or other weapon of like kind or description shall, on conviction, be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $500.00, and may also be imprisoned in the county jail or sentenced to hard labor . Never let children play with brass knuckles. It is illegal to not inform a police officer who stops you that you are carrying a concealed knife that is not a pocketknife. Mississippi 9. 924, 1; Acts 1999, No. Unlawful carry as pertinent provides: Notwithstanding any other provision In Texas, it is illegal to carry a weapon, including brass knuckles, on your person. If someone is injured or property is damaged while you are using brass knuckles, you could be held liable in a civil lawsuit and/or face charges in a criminal court. Brass knuckles are illegal in Pennsylvania. Brass knuckles are illegal in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Search, Browse Law This includes selling, buying, using, carrying, repairing, lending, and manufacturing. Arizona 2. Contact us. Brass knuckles can typically be purchased at markets or from companies that make belt buckles and other metal goods (where legal). Missouri 12. Idaho 5. 1064, 1; Acts 1999, No. H. The provisions of this Section shall not prohibit active justices or judges of the supreme court, courts of appeal, district courts, parish courts, juvenile courts, family courts, city courts, federal courts domiciled in the state of Louisiana, and traffic courts, constables, coroners, district attorneys and designated assistant district attorneys, United States attorneys and assistant United States attorneys and investigators, and justices of the peace from possessing and concealing a handgun on their person when the justice or judge, constable, coroner, district attorneys and designated assistant district attorneys, United States attorneys and assistant United States attorneys and investigators, or justices of the peace are certified by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training. Failure to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $750 and up to six months in prison. The law in Montana does not specifically state whether brass knuckles are legal or not. Though, in laws where you can get a permit to carry brass knuckles there are still laws on how they may be used. Possession, distribution, or manufacturing of brass knuckles is seen as a gross misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $5,000 and up to one year in prison. And it doesnt necessarily stop at the state level, because some localities have brass knuckle laws all their own. Failure to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor. Please check official sources. So, at the show today I see this lady selling these electro-zap stun gun things that are shaped like a pair of brass knuckles except they are made of plastic. Like any dangerous weapon, brass knuckles always have the potential to hurt others, whether purposely or accidentally. Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Montana, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wyoming. GovTrack reports that the likelihood of such legislation actually passing is 2%. 636, 1; Acts 1993, No. C. On a second conviction, the offender shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than five years. The penalty for a first-degree misdemeanor is incarceration between two and five years and a fine of up to $10,000. Brass knuckles are not illegal in Florida, but you must have a license or permit to carry a concealed weapon if you wish to carry them hidden or concealed. HOME; ABOUT US. Brass knuckles are prohibited weapons, . Brass knuckles are illegal in Washington. If you are charged with possession of brass knuckles or arethe victim of a brass knuckle-related crime, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. In Wisconsin, brass knuckles are not illegal to own in ones home; however, brass knuckles cannot be carried concealed without a concealed carry permit. In many cases, it doesnt matter if you have them for decorative purposes only; most states still consider them a weapon and having them in your possession could get you into trouble with law enforcement. The penalties associated with a misdemeanor conviction include incarceration for up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Based on the leadership principles of George Washington, we provide citizens, voters, and elected officials with the information, insights, and tools that amplify democracy in the modern age. However, they are considered deadly weapons, so using them during the commission of a crime can lead to additional charges and punishments. 172, 1; Acts 2011, No. Always Guarded Boutique is not responsible for the determining legality concerning local laws and restrictions, the buyer is soley responsible for determining the legality of the possession and use of our products in your city and state. While carrying or possessing brass knuckles is not illegal, there are additional punishments for using brass knuckles during the commission of a crime. The law in Idaho does not specifically state whether brass knuckles are legal or not. Connecticut 3. Brass knuckles of any type and material are prohibited in Illinois. You have to know the laws of your area before purchasing any weapon, and brass knuckles are no different. They are often used in fights and can result in broken bones, cuts, and even death. Ive been doing research online about the legality of brass knuckles in Louisiana and have been getting mixed answers. Brass knuckles fall under that category. In some states, such as California, brass knuckles are only illegal if they are specifically designed to cause injury. 636, 1; Acts 1995, No. 1. Brass knuckles are legal in some states and illegal in others. What happens when you hit someone with brass knuckles? In Georgia, brass knuckles are legal to own and carry. Brass knuckles, however, can be considered a deadly weapon, so one should use caution. and our Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Idaho 5. Beverly Bird is a practicing paralegal who has been writing professionally on legal subjects for over 30 years. (2) Whoever commits the crime of illegal carrying of weapons with any firearm used in the commission of a crime of violence as defined in R.S. Brass knuckles are illegal out in public and on the streets they are identified with illegal guerrillas such as gangbangers, Knucks are legal for home defense though such as break ins or domestic violence directed by strangers or non-strangers, Lexan Knucks are a legal imitation they will hardly work for unarmed fighting, thank you, have a nice day, end of blog topic. However, using them is considered a violent crime which is often followed by felony charges. | Last updated December 12, 2022. Brass knuckles are legal in Montana. There are 17 states that require a permit for brass knuckles. This includes both metal and plastic knuckles. Previously, carrying or possession was a misdemeanor punishable up to $4,000 in fines or up to one year in jail.