Brass Knuckles Laws in Maryland

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

Short answer: Metal knuckles are listed as a "weapon" under Maryland law, and a person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon concealed, or carry one openly with intent to injure someone unlawfully. Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(5), (b), (c), (d)

Brass knuckles	Metal knuckles are listed as a "weapon" under Maryland law, and a person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon concealed, or carry one openly with intent to injure someone unlawfully. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine up to $1,000, or both. The law has exceptions, including police officers, handgun permit holders, and someone carrying the weapon as a reasonable precaution against apprehended danger (which a court judges). The statute restricts carrying; it does not itself ban owning metal knuckles at home. Source: Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(5), (b), (c), (d)

Brass knuckles

Metal knuckles are listed as a "weapon" under Maryland law, and a person may not wear or carry a dangerous weapon concealed, or carry one openly with intent to injure someone unlawfully. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine up to $1,000, or both. The law has exceptions, including police officers, handgun permit holders, and someone carrying the weapon as a reasonable precaution against apprehended danger (which a court judges).

The statute restricts carrying; it does not itself ban owning metal knuckles at home.

Source: Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(5), (b), (c), (d)

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FAQ

Are brass knuckles illegal in Maryland?

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.