Brass Knuckles Legality by State 2026

States Where Brass Knuckles Are Legal

In some states, brass knuckles are legal to possess under state law. This means no outright statewide ban on owning them exists. States in this category include Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

However, “legal” does not mean unrestricted. In several of these states, additional rules still apply. For example, carrying brass knuckles concealed may be prohibited, certain cities may impose local restrictions, and using brass knuckles during an assault can elevate criminal charges. Even where possession is allowed, misuse can result in serious legal consequences.

States Where a Permit Is Required

In several states, brass knuckles are not fully banned—but carrying them typically requires a concealed weapons permit. In these states, brass knuckles are treated similarly to other controlled weapons, meaning they cannot be carried hidden on the person without proper authorization.

States in this category include Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Even with a permit, certain locations—such as schools, public gatherings, or specific businesses—may still prohibit weapons. Failing to comply with permit or location restrictions can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances.

States Where Brass Knuckles Are Illegal

In many states, brass knuckles are outright illegal to possess, sell, manufacture, or carry. These states classify metal knuckles as prohibited weapons, similar to other banned items under their criminal codes.

States in this category include Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

In these jurisdictions, simply possessing brass knuckles—whether metal or plastic—can result in criminal charges, regardless of intent or whether the item is carried openly or concealed.

Local Restrictions and Use-Based Offenses

Even in states where brass knuckles are legal to possess, local ordinances may impose additional restrictions. For example, certain cities prohibit possession within municipal limits, and some states ban brass knuckles in schools, hospitals, government buildings, or public gatherings.

Additionally, using brass knuckles during an assault can elevate charges to a felony in many states, regardless of basic legality. Courts may classify brass knuckles as a “deadly weapon” depending on how they are used and the intent behind their possession. For that reason, legality often depends not just on ownership, but on how and where the item is carried or used.