Brass Knuckles Are Illegal

Brass knuckles may seem like an innocuous self-defense tool, but they are actually illegal to own or carry in most states. Let’s break down the reasons behind the brass knuckles ban and what it means if you own a pair.

What are Brass Knuckles?

Brass knuckles are a handheld weapon made from brass, iron, or other hard metal designed to fit over the fingers. They make punches more powerful and damaging by concentrating force into a smaller, harder surface area.
Even though they seem pretty old-school, brass knuckles are an effective weapon – which is why they are illegal in most places. Police take a dim view of civilians carrying weapons like nunchucks or throwing stars too.

Why Were Brass Knuckles Banned?

Back in the late 1800s, brass knuckles became associated with unsavory characters like gangsters and criminals. Politicians decided to crack down by banning them in certain states and eventually nationwide.
Specific reasons brass knuckles are considered dangerous illegal weapons today include:

• Inflict serious injury – Brass knuckles can break bones, cause internal bleeding, injure organs, etc. Police argue that they have no place in civil society.
• Easy to conceal – Unlike a baseball bat, brass knuckles fit in your pocket making them easy to sneak around.
• Increase punching power – Normal punches already kill people every year. Brass knuckles make this more likely.

Of course, brass knuckles also have valid uses – like self-defense for women walking alone at night. But lawmakers decided the risks outweigh any benefits.

Where Are Brass Knuckles Illegal?

Today, brass knuckles are illegal in almost every state. There are only 5 states where brass knuckles are legal:

• Alaska – Allowed for adults over 21 years old
• Arizona – Recently made legal in 2010
• Vermont – No restrictions
• New Hampshire – Allowed with concealed carry permit
• Kentucky – Recently legalized in 2019

Everywhere else, brass knuckles fall under concealed weapons bans, proficiency testing requirements, or dangerous weapons prohibitions. It’s illegal to sell, manufacture, purchase, possess or even carry brass knuckles on your person.
For example in Texas, brass knuckles are lumped in with “prohibited weapons” alongside short-barrel firearms, explosive weapons, machine guns, armor-piercing ammo, zip guns, and tire deflation devices.
Simply owning brass knuckles is a misdemeanor. Carrying them on you in public jumps to a felony.

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You inherited a collection of antique weapons from your grandfather, including a set of brass knuckles from World War II. While showing them to a friend, a neighbor saw them and mentioned that simply possessing them could be a criminal offense in your state.

Can I really face criminal charges just for owning brass knuckles that were passed down as a family heirloom?

Attorney's Answer

In many states, the answer is yes — possession alone is enough to trigger criminal charges regardless of how you acquired them. For example, under New York Penal Law § 265.01, criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree includes possession of metal knuckles, which is classified as a Class A misdemeanor carrying up to one year in jail. States like California (Penal Code § 21810) have made it illegal to manufacture, import, sell, give, or possess metal knuckles, with violations treated as either a misdemeanor or felony. Even sentimental or historical value does not create a legal exception, so you should consult a criminal defense attorney immediately about your options, which may include legally surrendering the items to avoid prosecution.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

What About Self-Defense?

You may think brass knuckles seem perfect for self-defense – they’re small, easy to use, and pack a mean punch.
However, most states argue that carrying weapons like brass knuckles escalates violence instead of preventing it. Getting caught with brass knuckles can cause legal problems of its own.
Pepper spray or a stun gun are better self-defense choices in eyes of the law. They neutralize threats without the same risk of permanent injury or death that brass knuckles pose.
Of course, you also have the right to throw a punch if your life depends on it. But adding a weapon takes things too far. Claiming self-defense won’t necessarily protect you from weapons charges if police find brass knuckles on you.

Penalties for Brass Knuckles Possession