For some states it is defined as the weapon being on your person but completely hidden from sight. Though, in laws where you can get a permit to carry brass knuckles there are still laws on how they may be used. Brass Knuckles and the Law - FindLaw However, having it out in the open may not be under the law. The seventeen states where brass knuckles are legal with a permit are Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. If you are caught carrying brass knuckles in a school zone, you may be charged with a felony. View a Specific Law: Search: select one or more law bodies: search for: Examples Disclaimer This is because brass knuckles concentrate the force of your punch into a small area, which can easily break your fingers. Iowa 7. Different states have different laws about the legality of brass knuckles. Even if they are not illegal in your state, you must still use extreme care when handling them. The law criminalizes the manufacturing, import, sale, or possession of brass knuckles. To apply for a permit, individuals must typically provide documentation such as proof of identity and legal residency in the US, payment of a fee, and any other paperwork specified by the issuing authority. The metal frame of brass knuckles is designed to increase the force of a punch and can easily break bones or cause lacerations. Breaking this law lands an individual in either California State Prison or Jail. In addition, they can also be used to commit crimes such as robbery or assault. 159, 1. One may carry brass knuckles in a concealed manner unless they are being concealed with the intent to harm. A 2015 court case, though, interpreted Iowa's dangerous weapons law to include brass knuckles, so the use of them during the commission of a crime would elevate the charges to an aggravated misdemeanor and can carry a punishment of up to two years in jail and a fine between $65625. Follow your state's brass knuckle laws. The first violation is a class 1 misdemeanor (punishable with up to a year in jail and a fine of $2,500), the second is a class 6 felony (one to five years in prison and $2,500) fine, and the third and subsequent violation is a class 5 felony (one to ten years in prison and $2,500 fine). Failing to adhere to this law will result in a misdemeanor. When it comes to self-defense, brass knuckles are a popular choice for many people. You must be the legal age of 21 or older. Brass knuckles are legal in some states and illegal in others. 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. Brass knuckles fall under that category. First, brass knuckles are considered a deadly weapon. Illinois 6. Brass knuckles are illegal in Washington. They are completely illegal in some states for example, you cannot sell, possess or use brass knuckles in Illinois, Vermont, California or Michigan. However, because they fall under the state's definition of a dangerous weapon, their presence during the commission of a crime.
