Are Brass Knuckles in Oklahoma Illegal?

Brass Knuckles in Oklahoma are illegal in most circumstances. Recently, in June 2022, an Oklahoman openly walked around the business district of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, with an unconcealed rifle. He was later arrested, but not for carrying the rifle. His public possession of the rifle was legal under Oklahoma law. However, the man was later arrested and charged with a crime because he was in possession of brass knuckles, which are illegal under Oklahoma law.

Brass knuckles in Oklahoma are also on the list of items that visitors and state employees are not allowed to carry into the Oklahoma State Capitol Building. Brass knuckles are legal in some states like Texas, which repealed the state’s prohibition against them in 2019. Knuckles are not heavily regulated by federal law.

Oklahoma and Weapons Law

In Oklahoma, it is typically a misdemeanor offense to carry an offensive weapon. These weapons include anything from metal knuckles to shotguns and rifles. In the case of guns, this prohibition applies whether the gun is loaded or unloaded. It also applies whether a weapon is concealed or unconcealed.

Unless your carrying of a weapon complies with Oklahoma Self Defense Act, it is illegal for you to carry an offensive weapon such as brass knuckles in Oklahoma. An exception is given to law enforcement personnel for the use of their service weapons. There are also exceptions for weapons used for living historical reenactments and the proper use of guns and knives for hunting, fishing, recreation, and education.

What Are Brass Knuckles?

Brass knuckles are made from metal and are typically worn around the fingers of an individual. When used in a fight, brass knuckles can cause considerable damage.

Brass knuckles may cause severe injuries such as broken bones, bruises, cuts, and concussions, as well as serious injuries to the eye and nose. While injuries from brass knuckles are usually serious but non-fatal, some instances of their use have resulted in death. An assault with brass knuckles will normally enhance the assault to a felony crime with great bodily injury.

Can You Carry Or Possess Plastic Knuckles In Oklahoma?

Although plastic knuckles are not specifically listed by the applicable Oklahoma law on brass knuckles and the unlawful carrying of weapons, it is possible that a police officer could consider plastic knuckles illegal as “any other offensive weapon” listed by the same Oklahoma law. It may not be worth the risk of arrest to carry around plastic knuckles. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable legal professional who can explain your rights in this situation and help you avoid an unnecessary arrest.

Is It Illegal To Carry Brass Knuckles In Your Car?

Yes. It still constitutes an unlawful carrying of a weapon under Oklahoma law. In this case, carrying brass knuckles in your car is also the concealment of a dangerous weapon that may be subject to criminal liability in Oklahoma.

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Are There Any Defenses

The defenses to possession of brass knuckles include the lack of knowledge that the item that you possessed met the definition of brass knuckles. Another possible defense is that you were not aware that the weapon had the characteristics of brass knuckles. Although possible, it would be difficult to establish the facts necessary to prove both of these defenses.

Tulsa Oklahoma Criminal Defense Attorneys

You, like most citizens, are concerned for your safety and the safety of your loved ones. However, some weapons, like brass knuckles, are illegal under Oklahoma law. The criminal defense attorneys at Kania Law Office are experienced in handling cases that involve criminal allegations of the unlawful use of a weapon. For more information about how our Oklahoma criminal defense lawyers can help you call 918-743-2233 or contact us online.