Criminal Defense Lawyers

Brass Knuckles In California

Are Brass Knuckles Legal in California?

Wondering if brass knuckles are allowed in California? I feel you. This stuff can get confusing fast with all the legal mumbo jumbo. Let’s break it down nice and easy so you know what’s up.

The Short Answer

Nope, brass knucks aren’t legal for regular folks to own or carry in CA. They’re considered a “metal knuckle weapon” which is a no-go according the state law. There are some exceptions though that we’ll get into.

What Exactly Are Brass Knuckles?

Brass knuckles are basically a metal weapon you wear on your fingers to pack more of a punch. Kinda looks like a knuckle duster or like something you’d see in an old mobster movie.

They fit right over your knuckles and grip them. The metal construction makes your punches way more damaging, which is why they aren’t allowed. Don’t need people walking around with built-in weapons on their hands ya know?

Brass knuckles image

They’re also sometimes called knuckledusters, knucks, brass knucks, or a fist load.

Why Are Brass Knuckles Illegal in California?

In California, metal knuckle weapons like brass knuckles are banned under [Penal Code Section 21810].The reason is pretty straightforward – they can cause serious injury or harm in a fight, even death. So lawmakers felt it was best not to allow people to carry them around. Kinda makes sense when you think about it.

Are There Exceptions? Who Can Own Brass Knuckles?

Like most laws, there are a few exceptions to the brass knuckle rules:

• Cops/Military: Active or honorably retired law enforcement and military personnel can own them. Makes sense for their line of work.
• Antiques/Collectors: If the brass knucks are considered an “antique” – like 50 years or older. Collectors can own them too.
• Film/TV/Theater Use: Brass knuckles can be owned for entertainment like movies, TV, plays, etc. But proper permits are needed.

So unless you fall into one of those categories, brass knuckles are a no go in California unfortunately.

What About Self Defense? Can You Use Them If Attacked?

Nope! You cannot use brass knuckles for self defense reasons in California. Even if someone attacks you first, legally you aren’t allowed to whip them out.

Using metal knuckles in a fight (even self defense) can lead to weapons charges and land you in some hot water. Not worth it!

What’s The Punishment for Having Brass Knuckles Illegally?

Getting busted with (or using) illegal brass knuckles can lead to [criminal charges in California]. Specifically:

• Carrying concealed brass knuckles illegally is a misdemeanor. Punishable by up to 1 year in county jail.
• If convicted of a brass knuckle felony, you could face 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison.
• Other punishments may include fines up to $10,000, probation, community service, etc.

Like most weapons crimes, the DA and judge tend to take brass knuckle offenses pretty seriously. Not something you wanna mess around with.

Should You Turn in Your Brass Knuckles?

If you somehow got ahold of some brass knucks, your best bet is turning them into local law enforcement like your [city police] or [county sheriff].You can do this anonymously in many places using gun buyback programs and things like that. Then there’s no risk of getting a brass knuckle charge on your record.

The Bottom Line on Brass Knucks in CA

While it would be nice to think brass knuckles are legal for self defense, they unfortunately aren’t allowed in California.

Unless you’re law enforcement or have a special collectors permit, metal knuckle weapons are a big no-no to own or carry. Using them illegally in a fight can lead to weapons felonies too.

So do yourself a favor and avoid brass knucks altogether in CA. Not worth the trouble! Stay safe out there.