By LawInspectsYes, brass knuckles are illegal in Florida. It is not just that you are caught using these weapons and only then you’ll be charged, nah, even the possession of brass knuckles can lead to heavy fines and even jail time. But we’d advise you to keep on reading to learn about different scenarios where having brass knuckles by your side can lead to some serious legal trouble. Here we go.
What Are Brass Knuckles, Really?
Brass knuckles, “knucks” or “knuckle dusters” are a small metal weapon that can be worn on the fingers for delivering a stronger punch. You could have come across them while watching action movies or as a fragment of antique military equipment. While a few individuals are into collecting them, others would purchase them off the Internet just because they fancy the look of them.
Are Brass Knuckles Legal in Florida?
No, they’re not legal.
Just to be super clear here, see, brass knuckles are regarded as concealed weapons in Florida. Therefore, you would be breaking the law if you had them in your pocket, your bag, or any other place where they were not visible to you. Moreover, if you are going to be in a public place with them and you are not intending to use them, you might also get into legal problems just because of their possession.
Even if you are allowed to carry a concealed weapon, brass knuckles are not included in the permit that you have. According to Florida law, these weapons are specifically prohibited from being protected under such permits.
What If You’re Caught Carrying Brass Knuckles?
Getting caught with brass knuckles in Florida could lead to a first-degree misdemeanor. That can mean:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Or probation
And that’s just for possession.
It is serious trouble if the police catch you while you are using brass knuckles in a fight or commit a crime with them. In that case, the offense may be upgraded to a felony, which means a longer time in jail and a permanent record of your criminal activities. In addition to that, it also makes it difficult for you to find a job, a place to live, and, the least expected thing, to be allowed to cast your vote.
Can You Keep Brass Knuckles at Home?
Some individuals are of the opinion that it is acceptable to have them in the house as a part of a collection or as a decoration. However, even that may pose a danger.
Suppose the police think that you have them in such a manner as to be able to use them immediately, even if you assure them it is just a display item or a belt buckle, then it is still possible to get a charge.
The law in Florida is not concerned with whether it is made of shiny brass or plastic. If it merely looks like a weapon and can be used as one, then it is possible that it will be treated identically.
What If You Bought Them Legally Online?
Of course, brass knuckles are available for purchase via the internet, stores, and even flea markets. But in case you were wondering, it is not allowed in the state of Florida to have or carry them.
Imagine that you brought them from another state, purchased them on the internet, or received them as a present. What you have to keep in mind is that once these things are with you in Florida, the law of that state is what applies. Besides, it is forbidden to have brass knuckles in your possession in any location in Florida, irrespective of the origin of the item.