The legality of possessing and carrying brass knuckles in Florida is a subject of frequent inquiry. This article provides an analysis of Florida’s laws concerning brass knuckles, addressing how they are defined, the rules for possession and carrying, and the consequences of violating these regulations.
What Florida Law Considers Brass Knuckles
Florida law does not provide a standalone, detailed definition of “brass knuckles” or “metallic knuckles.” Instead, they are categorized under the broader term of “weapon” within Florida Statute 790.001.1The Florida Senate. Chapter 790 Section 001 – 2024 Florida Statutes This statute includes a general list of items that can be considered weapons, and law enforcement and the courts classify brass knuckles within this group.
The classification is based on the physical characteristics of the item—a piece of metal or hard polymer shaped to fit around the knuckles to intensify the effect of a punch. Items that may be marketed as novelty belt buckles or paperweights but can be used as knuckles can also fall under this legal classification if a person carries them in a way that suggests they are intended for use as a weapon.
Possessing Brass Knuckles in Florida
In Florida, owning brass knuckles and keeping them within your private residence is generally permissible. The law primarily focuses on carrying these items in public, especially when concealed. No state statute makes it a crime to have brass knuckles as a collector’s item or for display inside your home.
The legality shifts once the item is taken outside the home. While you can legally possess them on your property, this does not extend to having them in your vehicle or on your person in public spaces. The law treats possession within a private dwelling differently from carrying them in public.
Carrying Brass Knuckles in Florida
Carrying concealed brass knuckles in Florida is illegal.2The Florida Senate. Chapter 790 Section 01 – 2024 Florida Statutes While a 2023 law allows for the carrying of a concealed weapon without a permit, this change does not apply to brass knuckles. The law only authorizes individuals to carry specific weapons, such as handguns, electronic weapons, tear gas guns, knives, and billies. Because metallic knuckles are not on this list, the permitless carry law does not make them legal to carry concealed.
Penalties for Brass Knuckle Offenses
Carrying concealed brass knuckles is a first-degree misdemeanor. A conviction for this offense can lead to punishments of up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.3Florida House of Representatives. 2025 Statutes 0775.082, Florida House of Representatives. 2025 Statutes 0775.083 These penalties apply even for a first-time offense.
The consequences can become more severe if the brass knuckles are used during the commission of another crime, such as in an assault or battery, where the charges can be enhanced. Additionally, it is a second-degree misdemeanor to manufacture or sell brass knuckles within the state. This offense is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
Locations Where Brass Knuckles Are Banned
Florida law prohibits carrying any deadly weapon into specific secure locations. These restrictions apply to everyone, and bringing a weapon like brass knuckles into these areas constitutes a separate criminal offense. Prohibited locations include:4The Florida Senate. Chapter 790 Section 06 – 2024 Florida Statutes
- Any elementary or secondary school, school bus, or school-sponsored event
- Any courthouse
- A polling place on an election day
- A meeting of the governing body of a county or municipality
- The sterile areas of an airport
- Any police station
- Any facility used for the detention of inmates