Brass knuckles made a comeback in fashion in the 2000s, and many people were seen wearing them to make a statement. Plastic, metal and other styles of these weapons could be seen on earrings or necklaces, for example. Interestingly, brass knuckles are not legal. Also known as knuckle dusters, brass knuckles are an incredibly dangerous weapon.
Most states make brass knuckles illegal because of the harm they can cause. Injuries from the weapons can result in broken bones, lacerations and even concussions. The injuries aren’t typically fatal, but there have been cases where attacks using brass knuckles resulted in a person’s death.
If you’re wearing brass knuckles as a statement, you might want to stop so that you don’t incriminate yourself accidentally. Carrying them, even if they’re not real, could result in a concealed weapons charge. Since every state has its own nuisances within the law, you have a good chance of fighting a charge if the weapon was not intended to be used or was only a fashion statement.
If you strike someone with brass knuckles or are carrying them as weapons at the time of an arrest, you are in a difficult position. You could face a violent crime charge or face a concealed weapons charge. Since brass knuckles are not legal, there are other penalties you could face as well. You may face a mixture of misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the case, so it’s a good idea to know your legal options. Our website has more information about what you can do if you’re accused of a crime.