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Brass Knuckles Laws in Kentucky

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

Short answer: Kentucky does not ban owning brass knuckles, but "artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material" are a "deadly weapon" under the Penal Code. KRS 500.080(4)(h); 527.020(1), (4), (10); 527.070(1), (4); 532.090; 534.040

Brass knucklesKentucky does not ban owning brass knuckles, but "artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material" are a "deadly weapon" under the Penal Code. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon outside the law's allowances (such as carrying under KRS 237.109 or with a concealed-carry license) is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500, or a Class D felony for someone with a prior felony involving a deadly weapon. Bringing any deadly weapon onto school property or a school bus is a Class D felony.
Source: KRS 500.080(4)(h); 527.020(1), (4), (10); 527.070(1), (4); 532.090; 534.040

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FAQ

Are brass knuckles illegal in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not ban owning brass knuckles, but "artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material" are a "deadly weapon" under the Penal Code. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon outside the law's allowances (such as carrying under KRS 237.109 or with a concealed-carry license) is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500, or a Class D felony for someone with a prior felony involving a deadly weapon. Bringing any deadly weapon onto school property or a school bus is a Class D felony.

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.