Is Brass Knuckles Legal in Maryland? (2026)
No. In Maryland, brass knuckles is prohibited. Maryland law, under Criminal Law Article § 4-101, explicitly prohibits the manufacture, sale, or possession of 'knucks' or 'metal knuckles.' This clear statutory language makes brass knuckles illegal for general citizens in Maryland, reflecting a zero-tolerance approach to these devices..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Maryland
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Brass Knuckles laws in Maryland
Maryland's Criminal Law Article, Section 4-101, specifically addresses 'Dangerous Weapons.' Subsection (a)(1) states that 'A person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon, other than a handgun, concealed upon or about the person.' More directly, subsection (c)(2) explicitly lists 'knucks' or 'metal knuckles' among items that a person may not 'manufacture, sell, or possess.' This unambiguous prohibition means that brass knuckles are illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture by any civilian in Maryland. There are no provisions for permits or exceptions for self-defense for the general public. The law's intent is to remove these items from circulation due to their classification as dangerous weapons. Law enforcement officers and military personnel acting in their official capacity are typically exempt from such prohibitions. The penalties for violating this statute can be significant, underscoring the state's strict stance against these devices. The law does not differentiate based on intent; mere possession is a violation.
Frequently asked questions
Is brass knuckles legal in Maryland for travelers?
For travelers visiting Maryland, brass knuckles is currently prohibited. Maryland's Criminal Law Article, Section 4-101, specifically addresses 'Dangerous Weapons.' Subsection (a)(1) states that 'A person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon, other than a handgun, concealed upon or about the person.' More directly, subsection (c)(2) explicitly lists 'knucks' or 'metal knuckles' among items that a person may not 'manufacture, sell, or possess.' This unambiguous prohibition means that brass knuckles are illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture by any civilian in Maryland. There are no provisions for permits or exceptions for self-defense for the general public. The law's intent is to remove these items from circulation due to their classification as dangerous weapons. Law enforcement officers and military personnel acting in their official capacity are typically exempt from such prohibitions. The penalties for violating this statute can be significant, underscoring the state's strict stance against these devices. The law does not differentiate based on intent; mere possession is a violation.
Do I need a permit for brass knuckles in Maryland?
Maryland does not specifically require a permit for brass knuckles, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport brass knuckles through Maryland?
Transport laws for brass knuckles in Maryland depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in Maryland, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for brass knuckles violations in Maryland?
Penalties for brass knuckles violations in Maryland vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.