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Brass Knuckles Laws in District of Columbia

The rules on brass knuckles in District of Columbia: who may own and carry them, where they are banned, and the penalties, from the state code.

Short answer: Brass knuckles are illegal to possess in D.C.: no person may possess knuckles, a blackjack, slungshot, sand club, sandbag or switchblade knife. D.C. Code §§ 22-4514(a), (c); 22-4515

Brass knucklesBrass knuckles are illegal to possess in D.C.: no person may possess knuckles, a blackjack, slungshot, sand club, sandbag or switchblade knife. A first violation is punishable by up to 1 year in jail, a fine of not more than the amount set in § 22-3571.01, or both. After a prior conviction under this section or any felony conviction, the maximum rises to 10 years.
Penalty: https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/22-4515.
Source: D.C. Code §§ 22-4514(a), (c); 22-4515

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FAQ

Are brass knuckles illegal in District of Columbia?
Brass knuckles are illegal to possess in D.C.: no person may possess knuckles, a blackjack, slungshot, sand club, sandbag or switchblade knife. A first violation is punishable by up to 1 year in jail, a fine of not more than the amount set in § 22-3571.01, or both. After a prior conviction under this section or any felony conviction, the maximum rises to 10 years.

Last verified against official sources: October 27, 2026.

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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.