However, there are some things you need to know before you use brass knuckles for self defense. It is a misdemeanor to encourage or otherwise aid a minor to carry or possess such a knife on educational property. (Source). Balisongs, disguised knives, throwing knives, bowie knives, and other large knives are legal. Arkansas Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Arkansas Code 5-73-121. It is important to familiarize yourself with the laws in your state before owning or carrying brass knuckles, as the consequences for possession or use can be severe. Theres a legal divide in many states between simply possessing them and carrying them concealed on ones person. (Source 1) (Source 2), You can own bowie knives, large knives, throwing stars, throwing knives, disguised knives, undetectable knives, dirks, daggers, and stilettos. You can legally open carry any knife. Iowa Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Iowa Code 724.4. In California, not only is it illegal to sell or manufacture brass knuckles, its also illegal to own them under Penal Code 21810. Knives with metal knuckles could get you into trouble. Knives are a part of many peoples everyday lives. KRS 500.080 recently overturned making concealed carrying other knives illegal. WebIn states where unlawful intent must be proven (and is not simply presumed) for the knife to be illegal, this chart counts this as "legal." Its illegal to bring a deadly weapon to schools, polling places, nuclear power facilities, or hydroelectric power facilities. Gravity knives are considered switchblades in Maryland. Common pocketknives are typically ok, but the court gets to determine what a common pocketknife is. Brass knuckles have been used as weapons for centuries and were particularly popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. You cannot conceal carry any knife with a blade longer than 3.5 in your vehicle either. When it comes to self-defense, brass knuckles are a popular choice for many people. (d)(1)Criminal use of prohibited weapons is a Class B felony if the weapon is a bomb. attorney, prison guard, or member of the United States Armed Forces acting in the Some states have laws that prohibit the use of brass knuckles. It is legal to own dirks, daggers, stabbing knives, bowies, switchblades, automatic knives, ballistic knives, gravity knives, balisongs, balisong trainers, and stilettos. Welcome to FindLaw's Cases & Codes, a free source of state and federal court opinions, state laws, and the United States Code. Criminal Offenses 5-73-104. You cannot conceal carry a throwing star, dirk, switchblade, gravity knife, or bowie. Any adult can carry any blade over 5.5 provided they arent at a restricted locations. The greatest restrictions are in Ann. If you have to give the blade a nudge to open, its not considered an automatic spring release, however. In most cases, these injuries can be permanently disfiguring. Tactical knives and bowie knives are not dangerous weapons unless you use them in such a manner. As of 2020, brass knuckles are legal in a number of states, subject to certain conditions. Open carry is legal. First conviction of an unlawful carry of a weapon is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $100-$250, and up to 30 days in jail. It is legal to carry an automatic or spring-assisted knife unless the blade deploys out of the front of the handle. Its illegal to carry knives at schools, polling places, court facilities, professional sports events, and some other locations. Any knife that can be opened with the flick of a wrist is illegal in NYC. 5801 -- 5861, or other applicable federal law, as either existed on January 1, 2019. In fact, theyre sometimes sold as jewelry, ornaments and accessories. Additionally, in New York, it is illegal to carry any type of knife on school grounds. Some people argue that brass knuckles can be used as a. tool, especially for women who may feel threatened in certain situations. If there are no passengers, it will be deemed to belong to the cab driver. Having a knife in your car that is not visible from outside could be considered a concealed knife. Either recklessly using a knife designed to be a weapon, or carrying a knife designed to be a weapon and having the intent to injure others is illegal. WebPossessing, exhibiting, repairing, manufacturing, selling, or brandishing metal knuckles is also illegal. It is illegal to own switchblades, and knives which are an integral part of a belt buckle. Double sided knives of all size are legal. Criminal Offenses 5-73-104. You could be sentenced to prison, probation, or a fine. (Source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6). While some states allow them to be carried for self-defense, others have banned them outright. You can legally conceal carry a switchblade. (Source 1), (Source 2), (Source 3), You can legally own any type of knife provided you have not been convicted of a felony against the person or property of another or convicted of a felony drug related offense. Arizona Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. (Source). Undetectable knives (such as ones that will not set off metal detectors) are illegal. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It is legal to own ballistic knives, balisongs, switchblades, automatic knives, dirks, daggers, stilettos, stabbing knives, disguised knives, undetectable knives, large knives, and bowie knives. In California, for example, it is illegal to possess or sell brass knuckles. (Source 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6). (http://www.wvlegislature.gov/wvcode/code.cfm?chap=61&art=7§=13#07), Wisconsin Illegal to possess or sell under Wisconsin Statutes 941.24. The curio exception in PA states that you can technically own any knife you want, but you have to make a very good argument for your purpose in owning the knife, and that can be difficult to do. (Source). Reviewed by Michelle Seidel, B.Sc., LL.B., MBA. This is incorrect. I think the section for Oregon got scrambled a bit with Oklahoma. There are county laws that come into play as well. Prison terms can extend to five years in Pennsylvania as well. You cannot talk to somebody who has a restraining order against you while you carry a non-pocketknife. WebRedirecting to /state-rankings/brass-knuckles-legality-by-state (308) Good question. Current as of January 01, 2020 | Updated by FindLaw Staff. You can legally own any knife in Montana. It is also important to use common sense when carrying a knife. FindLaw Codes may not reflect the most recent version of the law in your jurisdiction. Simply possessing brass knuckles is a felony in Massachusetts, Michigan, and Missouri, regardless of what an individual does with them even if they're just wearing the knucks as a belt buckle ornament. Connecticut Illegal to possess, sell or carry under Connecticut General Statutes 53-206. There are no illegal to own types of knives in Ohio other than ballistic knives.. Its a misdemeanor to simply possess brass knuckles in Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Vermont whether theyre concealed or not, and to sell or carry them in New Hampshire. (https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9.41.250), West Virginia Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under West Virginia Code 61-7-13. You can buy them in different states, just not Massachusetts. If you are considering purchasing brass knuckles, it is important to research the laws in your state to make sure you are in compliance with the law. Kansas Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Kansas Statutes 21-4001. You also need to know that many localities within a state pass their own knife laws that may vary drastically from what the state law entails. It is illegal to own ballistic knives and throwing stars. For example, in California, it is illegal to carry a knife with a blade longer than 2 inches. (https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-2923.11), Oklahoma Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. Breaching Connecticut knife laws can land you 3-5 years in jail, which is rather draconian, so be aware. Simple possession of a dirk, dagger, or stiletto carries the assumption that you intended to use it against somebody. No illegal knives as of 2013. Switchblades, automatic knives, gravity knives are legal. You can legally conceal a pocketknife. Ballistic knives are illegal. They are illegal to carry as a concealed weapon under Virigina Code 18.2-308, which makes the carrying of "metal knucks" or any weapon of like kind, guilty of a misdemeanor.While the law doesn't specifically address carrying them out in Folders, Swiss army knives, and kitchen knives are legal to carry provided you do not behave in a manner that makes them dangerous. TermsPrivacyDisclaimerCookiesDo Not Sell My Information, Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select. Arkansas, which 2012 It is also illegal to sell or manufacture brass knuckles. Legal Definition Of Notwithstanding Clause. Theyve been around for hundreds of years. Any fixed blade knife can be a dirk or dagger under California law. We write helpful content to answer your questions from our expert network. They should also look into the laws in any states theyre considering traveling to with their knuckles in tow. Yes. Does that change matters regarding knives? Montana Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. You can legally carry knives with utility purposes. Category 1 people commit 3rd degree felonies by possessing, arranging to purchase, or using a dangerous weapon other than a firearm. The use of brass knuckles has been illegal in the United States since the early 20th century. Concealed carry of deadly weapons is now legal as of June 27, 2019. (https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/Codified_Laws/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=22-14-15), Tennessee Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Tennessee Code 39-17-1303. Section 21810 is a wobbler, illegal in every US state. You cannot carry a dangerous weapon in a school zone or courthouse. Under brass knuckles laws in Florida, Maryland, Mississippi and New Mexico, fines can also be $1,000 but with as long as three years in prison. If you bend over to pick up a box, and your shirt goes over the hilt of a belt-worn blade, you are screwed. (Source 1), (Source 2). In Arizona, actually using brass knuckles is a felony even though concealed weapon permits arent legally required there, and using them in Illinois and South Dakota is a felony as well. Brass knuckles are a type of weapon designed to be worn on the hand for use in hand-to-hand combat. Contact us. In Wyoming, it is legal for any person of any age to carry a knife openly or concealed without a permit. They are typically made of brass or other metals and consist of a grip and several finger holes that are fitted with metal plates or spikes. Colorado Knife Laws. (Source). In the application it asks for a reason but one may insert any reason they wish, such as by right or because I want to. This post is made possible in part by Knife Country USA.See them for high quality blades of various types. For 15 years our company has published content with clear steps to accomplish the how, with high quality sourcing to answer the why, and with original formats to make the internet a helpful place. Ohio Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. It is legal to own a dirk, dagger, stabbing knife, stiletto, sword cane, disguised knife, bowie, balisong, or switchblade. Subsequent violations are a fine of $250-$500 and 30 days 3 months in jail. The application for the permit must have a description of the weapon that is to be carried concealed. Stilettos, dirks, and toothpick knives are legal. Its a felony in Delaware to carry brass knuckles without a concealed weapon permit, even for a first-time offense. Hawaii Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Hawaii Revised Statutes 134-51. Once again, weapons which can cause dangerous wounds could mean just about anything. But some folks might be wondering, will brass knuckles break your fingers? California Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Penal Code 21810. Concealment is not an issue. It is not illegal to own any type of knife in South Dakota. New York Illegal to possess under New York Penal Law 265.01(1). Frying pans have been found as deadly weapons in prior court cases, so literally anything counts as a deadly weapon in Wyoming. Churches are restricted locations unless the citizen has a license and has been granted permission by the church administration. You cannot give illegal-to-carry-concealed knives to people who you know are currently intoxicated. (Source 1), (Source 2), (Source 3), (Source 4), Montana seems to have some of the best knife laws in the US. (Source 1) (Source 2) (Source 3) (Source 4). The best way to get a bad law repealed is to enforce it strictly. (Source 1), (Source 2), (Source 3), (Source 4), (Source 5), Tennessee has some rock-solid knife laws. Brass knuckles are legal in the states of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, In some states, like California and Illinois, possession of brass knuckles is illegal under any circumstances. It is illegal for convicted felons, fugitives, or those subject to a domestic violence protective order to even own a knife. Utah Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. You'll need a permit in most states if you want to carry brass knuckles. Unless you do not want to end up with jail time, a hefty fine, or a ruined reputation, it pays to know the law in your home state. Nothing is illegal to own knife-wise. (https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter10/76-10-S501.html?v=C76-10-S501_1800010118000101), Vermont Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. Some states make a distinction based on the exact substance of the knuckles, such as whether theyre made of plastic or something harder and more dangerous. Alabama Illegal to possess or sell under Code of Alabama 13A-11-20. (http://www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/19%20Regular/final/HB0196.pdf), New York Illegal to possess or sell under New York Penal Law 265.01. You can carry any knife provided it is not restricted. Deadly weapon may have an incredibly wide range of meaning, so be wary. (https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=78355), Maine Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. In states where brass knuckles are not illegal, their use and possession may be regulated. Outdated regarding switchblades in Nevada. It is legal to open carry any type of knife, but it is illegal to conceal carry any dirk, dagger, stiletto, or any other blade over 3.5 long. (https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=28-1202), Nevada Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. Indiana Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. Anyone over 18, can legally carry a knife less than 5.5 nearly anywhere. The following arms are illegal to own in Arkansas: Bombs or other explosive A version of the bill that was introduced in January 2019 is still pending, and this one, at least, pertains strictly to firearms. You also need to check if your municipality has certain knife restriction ordinances (Boston and Salem do). Perchance you carry concealed or open, and somebody sees/finds out about it and is scared, they can get the court to force you to place a deposit to ensure you wont hurt someone. They are used for cooking, opening packages, and other tasks. In Canada, brass knuckles--and similar variants--are prohibited It is illegal to carry a concealed and dangerous weapon such as a knife (now it qualifies?) It is only illegal to carry a location-restricted knife to/near specific locations. A student in Mississippi on educational property cannot possess or carry any bowie, dirk, dagger, switchblade, or automatic knife whether they open or conceal carry. You can legally open carry any type of knife. This includes selling, brandishing, exhibiting, repairing, manufacturing, and possessing brass knuckles. Designed and developed by Prepper Press, This site uses cookies to improve your experience. (Source 1), (Source 2). You cannot possess a bowie or dirk if you are under 12 unless your parents are with you. Those carrying on their own premises or at the point of purchase, at their business, to or from their business, and certain government employees are exempt from conceal carry laws. You can open carry any knife. Wisconsin Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Wisconsin Statutes 941.24. It is illegal to conceal carry a bowie, dirk, butcher knife, switchblade, or automatic knife. Tennessee law restricts the possession and carry of weapons, including knives, on school property. (https://codes.findlaw.com/nj/title-2c-the-new-jersey-code-of-criminal-justice/nj-st-sect-2c-39-3.html), New Mexico Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under New Mexico Statutes 30-7-13. A category 1 restricted person has been convicted of a violent felony, is on probation/parole for a felony, is on parole from a facility under contract with the Division of Juvenile Justice Services, that provides 24-hour supervision and confinement for youth offenders, has been adjudicated delinquent within the last 10 years for an offense that would have been a violent felony if the person had been an adult, or is illegally in the US. If you fall into the category of one who cannot possess certain types of knives in New Hampshire, then it is illegal for you to own a stiletto, dirk, dagger, switchblade, or any other type of knife considered to be a deadly weapon. Web(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 (https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=571.020), Montana Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. Learn about West Virginia preppers generally. Current as of January 01, 2020 | Updated by FindLaw Staff. So-called "brass knuckles," or any variation of them, are No knives at Capitol grounds, the Arkansas Justice Building, schools, or some public buildings. Originally used by soldiers and street fighters, brass knuckles have often been depicted as symbols of toughness and aggression. Nebraska Illegal to possess or sell under Nebraska Revised Statutes 28-1202. (https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/609.222), Mississippi Legal to possess and carry, but illegal to use them in the commission of a crime. 25 § 2001-A. There may be local laws in Delaware as well. Its important to note that even in states where brass knuckles are legal to possess, they can still be considered a deadly weapon in the eyes of the law. For example, in Colorado, brass knuckles are legal, but they are considered a concealed weapon and must be carried in accordance with state law. Delaware Illegal to possess, sell, or carry under Delaware Code 222. It is illegal to conceal carry a switchblade, dagger, stiletto, a blade greater than 5, a balisong, or disguised knives. It is not illegal to carry a concealed knife if you are driving. It is legal to own a dirk, dagger, stabbing knife, bowie, switchblade, ballistic knife, throwing stars, throwing knives, stilettos, and balisongs. Unless you are prohibited from carrying a gun, are under 21, or are not a US citizen, you can carry almost anything in West Virginia. laws: Me. In many states, it is the intent of carrying the knife that is illegal. article enumerated in subsection (a) of this section under circumstances negating WW I trench knives are illegal. by anyone who is prohibited from owning a firearm. WebAll knives are legal to own in Arkansas, including: Balisongs or butterfly knives Switchblades and automatic knives Gravity Knives Dirks, stilettos, and other slim or You cannot conceal carry any other knife in Missouri other than a under 4 pocketknife on your person or in your vehicle in Missouri. (https://codes.findlaw.com/al/title-13a-criminal-code/al-code-sect-13a-11-20.html), Alaska Legal to possess and carry openly, but illegal to carry concealed. It is important to understand your legal rights before purchasing or carrying brass knuckles, as the consequences for violating state laws can range from fines and lawsuits to jail time. In some states, brass knuckles are completely illegal, while other states have very specific laws governing their use and possession. Make no mistake brass knuckles are indeed weapons, although theyre not harmful by themselves. Charges for possession of these weapons range from a Class 1 misdemeanor for possession of a Teflon-coated bullet or spring-loaded knife to a Class I felony for possession of machine guns and a Class B felony for having a nuclear, biological, or chemical weapon. Only concealed carry has restrictions. As of right now, brass knuckles are legal in the following states: Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia You can open carry a dagger. It is illegal to conceal carry a dirk, dagger, machete, any knife made a part of a belt buckle, or any knife which could be considered a dangerous or deadly weapon. Minnesota Illegal to possess or sell under Minnesota Statutes 609.222. There are two categories of people who may not own dangerous weapons. Its just six months in prison in Massachusetts, Nevada and New Hampshire, but fines can go as high as $2,000. Ballistic knives are illegal to carry (actually, 1+ years in prison and a felony). You can legally own just about any knife provided you can convince a police officer or judge that you own it for common lawful purposes, such as camping, hunting, or fishing. Butterfly knives, dirks, daggers, stilettos, throwing knives, throwing stars, bowie knives, large knives, hidden knives, undetectable knives, switchblades, automatic knives, and gravity knives are all legal. (Source), Balisongs, bowies, dirks, daggers, stilettos, assisted knives, disguised knives, switchblades, and automatic knives are legal. What is wrong with reporter Susan Raff's arm on WFSB news. All knives are legal to own. Rev. Some local laws apply. Making or selling dirks, switchblades, automatic spring release knives, ballistic knives, or a knife with a device which enables a locking blade to be drawn at the open position is illegal. (Source), There are no illegal pocketknives here. You may open carry any type of knife on your person or in your vehicle. Any knife may be carried openly or concealed. According to the National Institute of Justice, "weapons such as brass knuckles can be used to escalate rather than de-escalate a confrontation, and can increase the likelihood of serious injury or death." It is legal to own balisongs, dirks, daggers, stabbing knives, stilettos, bowies, automatic knives, gravity knives, and disguised knives. You can open carry any knife. Michigan Illegal to possess or sell under Michigan Compiled Laws 750.224a. Its misconduct involving weapons in the fourth degree in Alaska, and its a misdemeanor to carry brass knuckles in a vehicle in Hawaii. Knives that include a set of knuckles in the handle are illegal. Disclaimer: We are not attorneys. That is illegal! I am not sure its possible to beat South Dakota knife law. Knuckles were removed from the list of prohibited items and tomahawks are just location-restricted, liked location-restricted knives. You can fight for your country at 18 with just about any type of knife, rifle, or grenade, but be careful on American soil! Balisongs/butterfly knives are legal. Doing any of this will result in a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the Balisongs, switchblades, automatic knives, quick release knives, bowie knives, large knives, throwing stars, throwing knives, stilettos, dirks, stabbing knives, disguised knives, spring powered ballistic knives, and pocketknives of any size are legal. For the sake of brevity throughout the article, understand that typically a balisong and a butterfly knife are considered the same thing. It is illegal to conceal carry a dirk, poniard, dagger, bowie, switchblade, butterfly knife, butcher knife, or any weapon which can be used to cause dangerous wounds. We have researched the laws of each state to the best of our ability, but laws are complex and are always changing. You cannot furnish a dangerous weapon to a minor under 16 unless you are the parent/guardian. Arkansas act 1024 states the following: With licenses, people may carry concealed handguns at public universities, public colleges, or In some cases, knife laws may apply. You do not have to have intent of intimidation or causing alarm in order to be found guilty of having done such. (Source). In this blog, we'll explore the legality of brass knuckles in different parts of the country and examine the debate surrounding their use as self-defense. Every day I thank my lucky stars Im in Texas. It is legal to own balisongs, dirks, daggers, stilettos, slim knives, disguised knives, undetectable knives, throwing stars, throwing knives, bowies, large knives, switchblades, gravity knives, and automatic knives. Bowie knives with sharpened clips are therefore considered double-sided blades and is thus illegal to carry open or otherwise. Open carry of any knife is legal. You can manufacture them though. Yes: Arkansas Illegal to possess, manufacture or sell under Arkansas Code 5-73-121. Third, brass knuckles can cause serious injury. If the vehicle is for hire (e.g. What happens when you hit someone with brass knuckles? Steak knives are not considered dirks or daggers (thank goodness).