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Brass knuckles (also called knuckle dusters or paper weight) are metal guards that are put on the brass knuckles for combat. Consisting of brass, steel, or other hard plastic, damage caused by brass knuckles can be severe. Broken bones, bursting wounds, and concussions can be the result of a stroke.
The dangers of knuckle dusters have prompted various state and local jurisdictions to pass knuckledusters laws. In this article, we will investigate why knuckledusters are illegal. Historians believe knuckledusters originated in ancient Greece and Rome, where they were used in gladiator fights.
Over time, they became increasingly popular among American soldiers during World War I and World War II. Soldiers attached knuckledusters to seven-inch knives (hence the name) to mark trench knives in close combat situations. As a result, they have a certain appeal to gun lovers and are now glamorously revered by the general population. More recently, mainstream media such as The Sopranos, The Simpsons, Grand Theft Auto, and others have begun to use brass knuckles in their shows and video games.
Despite its growing popularity, the dangers of knuckledusters are well known. Bone fractures, cuts, concussions, and internal injuries may result from blows to the ankles. In some cases, brass knuckles even led to death.
Dust dusters are illegal in the U.S. There are no federal regulations for brass, plastic, or knuckledusters, but there are laws at the state and county levels. States such as California, Oregon, and New York have banned knuckledusters. This includes the purchase, sale, manufacture, repair, and wearing of these knuckles. Given the growing popularity and the risk of severe damage from the knuckledusters, state officials are examining whether they are legal.
While it is legal in Georgia, for example, to possess and wear knuckledusters, it is a criminal offense to injure another person. Other states such as Texas, Arizona, and Georgia allow possession of legal knuckledusters. However, each state has specific restrictions and conditions for their use. States such as Colorado and Illinois ban the wearing of knuckleduster jewelry.
Residents need a permit to own knuckledusters for self-defense. Some states require a license or permit to carry them. These include Alabama, Florida, Oregon, and Virginia. From September 2019, Texans will be banned from wearing knuckledusters. Before you buy or wear them, you should know your legal rights. Some states require licenses or permits to carry these weapons.
As mentioned above, state laws vary depending on state legislation. Consequences for violations of state law can lead to misdemeanors or crimes. Violations can be punished with fines, trials, and imprisonment if they are serious.
Whether it's a complete set of fingers or a knuckleduster, getting caught with one can lead to legal problems. Under Nevada law, you are not permitted to manufacture or possess anything on the list of dangerous weapons, including metal knuckledusters. The law's wording contains provisions for knuckledusters, but they must be made of materials other than metal. For example, knuckledusters are permitted if they are made of plastic, ceramic, or brass.
Some states, such as Idaho and Utah, have explicit state laws that say you can carry this type of gun. However, some states are somewhat vague about your legal right to own knuckledusters. It is for the courts to decide if they can be used with criminal intent and the consequences that this entails.
Check your state and local laws for the legality of knuckledusters. As mentioned above, a law that does not prohibit one type of weapon does not mean that there are no other conditions that you must meet. In some states, you should consult a local attorney to ensure that you understand the rights and legality of owning knuckledusters.
Brass knuckles are a weapon to be handled with extreme caution. Significant and minor damage caused by knuckledusters can result in civil lawsuits and even criminal charges. Be careful because knuckledusters are illegal in many countries.
If unfortunately you have suffered an injury due to the deliberate or negligent use of knuckledusters by another person, talk to a personal injury solicitor to discuss your legal options. Valiente Mott is a private injury company in Las Vegas that provides our services to help victims. We will try our best to guarantee that you receive the best legal advice so that you can embark on your road to recovery. If you or your loved ones have been injured by negligence, contact us today for your free advice.
