Self-Defense Weapon Laws by State (2026)
Whether pepper spray, Tasers and stun guns, and brass knuckles are legal in each state, from each state's code.
This table covers 31 of 51 jurisdictions (50 states and DC). A state that is not listed has no rule here that we could verify against an official source yet.
| State | Pepper spray | Tasers and stun guns | Brass knuckles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Not verified yet | Arizona's stun gun law regulates sales and use, not ownership; it does not list who may not possess one. A seller of an "authorized remote stun gun" (under 100,000 volts and 9 joules per pulse, with serial-numbered projectiles and a tracking system that disperses coded material) must keep a record of the buyer's identity checked against a government ID, and failing to do so is a petty offense; this does not apply to secondary sales. Knowingly using or threatening to use a remote stun gun against a law enforcement officer performing official duties is a class 4 felony. Stun guns are not on Arizona's list of "prohibited weapons." Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 13-3117, 13-3101 | Not verified yet |
| California | Adults in California may carry pepper spray (legally a "tear gas" weapon) in an aerosol spray, but people who are not licensed security professionals may not buy, possess or use a tear gas weapon that fires a projectile, that releases the gas by any method other than an aerosol spray, or that holds more than 2.5 ounces net weight of aerosol spray. Licensed private investigators, private patrol operators and their security guards may carry other tear gas weapons for defensive purposes after completing required training. Cal. Penal Code §§ 17240, 17250, 22810, 22835 (as summarized by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services) | Not verified yet | Not verified yet |
| Connecticut | Not verified yet | Connecticut calls stun guns and Tasers "electronic defense weapons." Carrying one is a class E felony unless the person is 21 or older and holds a Connecticut pistol permit or another firearm permit or certificate issued under sections 29-28, 29-36f, 29-37p or 29-38n. Selling or transferring one to someone under 21, or to someone without such a permit or certificate, is a class D felony. People barred from firearms (for example, those with certain felony or listed misdemeanor convictions, subject to certain protective or risk protection orders, or recently confined in a psychiatric hospital) commit criminal possession of an electronic defense weapon, a class C felony with two years and one day that cannot be suspended or reduced. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 53-206(a), (b)(6); 53-206k; 53a-217 | Carrying metal or brass knuckles on your person is illegal in Connecticut. It falls under the dangerous-weapons carrying law and is a class E felony, and the knuckles found on the person are forfeited to the town where the person was arrested. The listed exceptions (police on duty, security guards with batons, martial arts students, etc.) do not cover knuckles. Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-206 |
| Delaware | Delaware law calls pepper spray, mace and tear gas "disabling chemical spray." Although the code counts disabling chemical spray as a "dangerous instrument," the law against carrying a concealed dangerous instrument expressly says disabling chemical spray is not a dangerous instrument for that offense, so carrying it concealed is not that crime. Trying to take a disabling chemical spray (or a gun, baton or other deadly weapon) from a police officer or other listed officer acting on duty is a class C felony. 11 Del. C. §§ 222(5), 222(8), 1443(c), 1458 | Delaware calls stun guns and Tasers "electronic control devices" (devices designed to incapacitate a person, including neuromuscular incapacitation devices) and classes them as "dangerous instruments." Carrying a dangerous instrument concealed on or about your person is a class A misdemeanor, with a defense if it was carried for a specific lawful purpose without intent to cause or threaten injury. A dangerous instrument becomes a "deadly weapon" when it is used or attempted to be used to cause death or serious physical injury. 11 Del. C. §§ 222(5)(c), 222(6), 222(11), 1443 | Metal knuckles are listed as a "deadly weapon" under Delaware law. Carrying a concealed deadly weapon without a license is a class G felony. Selling, offering for sale or possessing a knuckles-combination knife (a knife whose blade is supported by a knuckle ring grip handle) is a class B misdemeanor, and doing so in a Safe Recreation Zone (recreation center, athletic field or sports stadium) raises it to a class A misdemeanor. 11 Del. C. §§ 222(6), 1442, 1452, 1457 |
| District of Columbia | Adults in D.C. may possess and use a self-defense spray (pepper spray / oleoresin capsicum or certain tear-gas agents) as reasonable force to defend themselves or their property. The spray must be propelled from an aerosol container, labeled with or accompanied by clearly written instructions for its use, and dated to show its anticipated useful life. Possessing a self-defense spray of any other type is not allowed. D.C. Code §§ 7-2502.12, 7-2502.13 | Stun guns are legal to own in D.C. for people 18 and older; people under 18 may not possess one, except briefly for self-defense against an immediate threat of harm. A stun gun may be used only as reasonable force to defend yourself, another person or property. Except for law enforcement officers or with specific permission, stun guns are banned in D.C. government buildings and offices, jails, secure juvenile facilities and halfway houses, buildings used by child-care facilities, preschools and elementary or secondary schools, and any building or grounds the owner has clearly posted as banning them. D.C. Code § 7-2502.15 | 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. D.C. Code §§ 22-4514(a), (c); 22-4515 |
| Florida | Adults may carry pepper spray in Florida, openly or concealed, for lawful self-defense. The law calls it a "self-defense chemical spray": a compact device carried for self-defense that holds not more than two ounces of chemical, and it is left out of the definition of a banned "chemical weapon or device." Using a self-defense chemical spray on a law enforcement officer who is doing his or her job is a third-degree felony. Carrying it does not protect anyone from prosecution for using it while committing a crime. Fla. Stat. §§ 790.001(4)(b), 790.01(5)(b), 790.053(2), 790.054 | Adults may carry a stun gun or Taser in Florida, openly or concealed, if it is a nonlethal stun gun, dart-firing stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon designed only for defense, carried for lawful self-defense. Children under 16 may use electric weapons only under adult supervision with a parent's consent. People with felony convictions (and certain young people with felony-level juvenile records, under 24) may not own or possess any "electric weapon or device"; that is a second-degree felony. Electric weapons are banned on school property and at school events, and using one on a police officer on duty is a third-degree felony. Fla. Stat. §§ 790.001(5), (7), 790.01(5)(b), 790.053(2), 790.054, 790.115(2)(a), 790.22(1), 790.23(1), (3) | Making or selling brass knuckles (the law says "metallic knuckles") is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Metallic knuckles also count as a "weapon" and a "concealed weapon" under the weapons chapter, so carrying them hidden without meeting the concealed-carry rules is a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year and a $1,000 fine). Fla. Stat. §§ 790.09, 790.001(4)(a), (20), 790.01(2), 775.082(4), 775.083(1) |
| Georgia | Not verified yet | Georgia's school-zone weapons law treats a stun gun or Taser as a "weapon," so carrying one in a school safety zone, on a school bus or at a school function is a felony for most people (a fine of up to $10,000, 2 to 10 years in prison, or both). One exception lets a person 18 or older, or a student enrolled on campus, carry an "electroshock weapon" (a device built only to stop a person with an electric charge, such as a stun gun or Taser) on public college, university or technical-school property, to be used only in defense of self or others. O.C.G.A. § 16-11-127.1(a)(4), (b), (c)(19) (secondary source: public copy of the state code; check the official code) | Georgia's school-zone weapons law lists "knuckles," whether made of metal, thermoplastic, wood or similar material, as a "weapon." Carrying them in a school safety zone, on a school bus or at a school function is a felony for most people, punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, 2 to 10 years in prison, or both. O.C.G.A. § 16-11-127.1(a)(4), (b) (secondary source: public copy of the state code; check the official code) |
| Iowa | Not verified yet | Iowa law counts a stun gun or Taser (a portable device that sends a high-voltage electric pulse designed to immobilize a person) as a "dangerous weapon." Iowa does not require a permit for adults to carry a dangerous weapon openly or concealed where carrying is otherwise lawful. A minor who goes armed with a stun gun, concealed or not, commits a simple misdemeanor, and using any dangerous weapon while committing a crime is an aggravated misdemeanor. Iowa's public universities and community colleges may not ban non-projectile stun guns on campus, though they may bar people with felony convictions from having them there. Iowa Code §§ 702.7, 724.4, 724.4E(3), 724.5, 724.8A (Iowa Code 2026) | Not verified yet |
| Kansas | Not verified yet | Not verified yet | In Kansas it is a crime to knowingly sell, make, buy or possess metal knuckles (brass knuckles), along with bludgeons and sand clubs. This "criminal use of weapons" is a class A nonperson misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The ban does not apply to police officers, prison staff, or military members on official duty. K.S.A. 21-6301(a)(1), (b)(1), (c); 21-6602; 21-6611 |
| Kentucky | Kentucky has no state law in its weapons chapter that bans or limits pepper spray or other self-defense sprays. Pepper spray is not on the Penal Code's list of "deadly weapons," so the concealed-weapon and school-weapon crimes that apply to deadly weapons do not name it. Using any object to hurt someone can still be a crime under other laws. KRS Chapter 527 (reviewed); KRS 500.080(4) | Kentucky has no state law in its weapons chapter that bans or limits stun guns or Tasers. Stun guns are not on the Penal Code's list of "deadly weapons," so the concealed-weapon and school-weapon crimes that apply to deadly weapons do not name them. Using one to hurt someone can still be a crime under other laws. KRS Chapter 527 (reviewed); KRS 500.080(4) | 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. KRS 500.080(4)(h); 527.020(1), (4), (10); 527.070(1), (4); 532.090; 534.040 |
| Maine | Spraying someone with chemical mace or a similar disabling spray is a crime called criminal use of disabling chemicals, a Class D crime (up to less than one year in jail), unless it is used in self-defense, defense of others, defense of premises or to protect property as allowed for nondeadly force. Maine's concealed-weapon law expressly does not apply to disabling chemicals described in that section, so carrying them concealed is not a concealed-weapon offense. 17-A M.R.S. §1002; 25 M.R.S. §2001-A(2)(B); 17-A M.R.S. §1604(1)(D) | Using an electronic weapon (a stun gun or similar device designed to disable people with an electrical current) on another person intentionally, knowingly or recklessly is criminal use of an electronic weapon, a Class D crime (up to less than one year in jail). It is not a crime when used to defend yourself or a third person, or your dwelling, as Maine's self-defense law allows, or by authorized officers on duty. 17-A M.R.S. §1004; 17-A M.R.S. §1604(1)(D) | Maine bans carrying knuckles (brass or metal knuckles) concealed under your clothes or about your person, and bans displaying them in a threatening manner, along with slungshots, dirks, stilettos and similar weapons. Violating this law (threatening display of or carrying a concealed weapon) is a Class D crime, punishable by up to less than one year in jail. 25 M.R.S. §2001-A(1); 25 M.R.S. §2004(2); 17-A M.R.S. §1604(1)(D) |
| Maryland | Maryland's weapons law defines pepper mace (oleoresin capsicum or OC spray) and makes it illegal to wear or carry chemical mace, pepper mace or a tear gas device openly with the intent or purpose of unlawfully injuring someone. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine up to $1,000, or both, and the court must impose the maximum prison term if the device was carried with the deliberate purpose of injuring or killing another. The statute does not set a size or strength limit or an age limit for pepper spray. Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(3), (c)(2), (d) | Stun guns and Tasers ("electronic control devices") may be possessed or used only by people who are at least 18 and have never been convicted of a crime of violence or certain drug distribution offenses. A device may not be sold and activated in Maryland unless instructions are provided, the manufacturer keeps a record of the original owner, and a state and federal criminal background check of the owner is done. Violating the age/record rule is a misdemeanor (up to 2 months and/or $500), or a felony (up to 3 years and/or $5,000) if done while committing a crime of violence. Local governments may adopt stricter rules. Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-109 | 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). Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-101(a)(5), (b), (c), (d) |
| Minnesota | Adults may possess and use pepper spray (an "authorized tear gas compound," which includes oleoresin capsicum) for reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property, but only if it comes in an aerosol container with written use and danger instructions and is dated with its useful life. People under 16 need written parent or guardian permission, and people barred from having a pistol for a crime of violence or certain other reasons may not have it. Possession by a barred person under 624.713 subd. 1(2), or selling to one, is a felony; using it on an on-duty peace officer is a gross misdemeanor; most other violations, including selling it where liquor is sold, are misdemeanors (up to 90 days and/or $1,000). State law preempts local rules on possession and use. Minn. Stat. §624.731; §609.02 subd. 3 | Adults may possess and use a stun gun or Taser ("electronic incapacitation device") for reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property if it comes with written use and danger instructions; no permit is required. No one under 18 may have one, and people barred from having a pistol for a crime of violence or certain other reasons may not have one. Possession by a person barred under 624.713 subd. 1(2), or using one on an on-duty peace officer, is a felony; using one other than in lawful self-defense is a gross misdemeanor; possession by an under-18 person and selling one where liquor is sold are misdemeanors. State law preempts local rules on possession and use. Minn. Stat. §624.731 | It is a crime to make, transfer or possess metal knuckles in Minnesota. A violation is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine, or up to 364 days and/or $3,000 if committed in a school, park or public housing zone. Minn. Stat. §609.66 subd. 1(a)(4), (b) |
| Mississippi | Not verified yet | Mississippi's firearm-license law defines a stun gun as a portable device that directs an electric current or impulse meant to temporarily incapacitate, stun or disorient a person. The Department of Public Safety license that covers concealed pistols and revolvers also covers carrying a stun gun, and the licensee must carry the license and ID and show them to officers on request. The licensing requirements do not apply to carrying a stun gun that is not concealed. A license does not allow carrying a stun gun into the places listed in the statute, and stun guns are not registered. Miss. Code Ann. §45-9-101(1), (13), (14)(b), (18), (21) (secondary source: public copy of the state code; check the official code) | Carrying metallic knuckles concealed on or about your person is a crime in Mississippi, under the same law that covers concealed bowie knives, switchblades and blackjacks. A first conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by a $100 to $500 fine, up to six months in county jail, or both; a second conviction brings a $100 to $500 fine plus 30 days to six months; a third or later conviction is a felony of one to five years, and a person with a prior felony faces one to ten years. Adults over 18 may carry them concealed in their home, place of business or vehicle, and a weapon in a visible sheath, holster or case is not "concealed." Miss. Code Ann. §97-37-1 (secondary source: public copy of the state code; check the official code) |
| Missouri | Missouri has no state law that specifically names or regulates pepper spray, mace or other self-defense sprays; the state weapons chapter does not set an age limit, size limit or permit for them. The chapter's general place-based rules on carrying "any other weapon readily capable of lethal use" (for example into schools, churches or government buildings) do not mention sprays by name. RSMo ch. 571 (reviewed); RSMo §571.030 | Missouri has no state law that specifically names or regulates stun guns, Tasers or other electronic weapons; the state weapons chapter does not require a permit or set an age limit for them. The chapter's general rules on carrying "any other weapon readily capable of lethal use" into places such as schools, churches and government buildings do not mention electronic weapons by name. RSMo ch. 571 (reviewed); RSMo §571.030 | It is a crime in Missouri to knowingly possess, make, transport, repair or sell knuckles (brass or metal knuckles: finger rings or guards of a hard substance designed to inflict serious injury or death by striking with the fist). This is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Exceptions cover official military or police duty, lawful business dealings with those agencies, museum displays and dramatic performances. RSMo §§571.010(13), 571.020.1(5), 571.020.3; 558.011.1(6); 558.002.1(2) |
| Montana | Montana has no state law in its weapons part that mentions pepper spray, chemical defense spray, or self-defense spray. The concealed-weapon rules apply to firearms: a 'concealed weapon' means a firearm wholly or partially covered by clothing (§ 45-8-315). MCA Title 45, ch. 8, pt. 3 (reviewed); MCA § 45-8-315 | Montana has no state law in its weapons part that mentions stun guns, Tasers, or other electronic weapons. Montana's concealed-carry permit rules cover concealed firearms; a 'concealed weapon' means a firearm wholly or partially covered by clothing (§ 45-8-315). MCA Title 45, ch. 8, pt. 3 (reviewed); MCA § 45-8-315 | Montana's weapons part does not make it a crime for adults in general to own or carry brass knuckles. Two places are restricted: it is a crime to possess 'brass or other metal knuckles' (or other listed weapons) in a school building without permission from the school trustees, punishable by a fine of up to $500, up to 6 months in county jail, or both (§ 45-8-361). Prisoners and youths held in detention facilities who possess 'knuckles made of any metal or hard substance' commit possession of a deadly weapon by a prisoner, punishable by 5 to 15 years in state prison, a fine of up to $50,000, or both (§ 45-8-318). MCA §§ 45-8-361, 45-8-318; MCA Title 45, ch. 8, pt. 3 (reviewed) |
| New Mexico | New Mexico has no state law in its Criminal Code that mentions pepper spray, chemical defense spray, or tear gas sprays. NMSA 1978, Chapter 30 (reviewed) | New Mexico has no state law in its Criminal Code that mentions stun guns, Tasers, or electronic weapons. NMSA 1978, Chapter 30 (reviewed) | New Mexico does not ban owning brass knuckles, but it lists them as a 'deadly weapon' (§ 30-1-12(B)). Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon, a petty misdemeanor, means carrying 'a concealed loaded firearm or any other type of deadly weapon anywhere', except in your home or on your own property, in a private vehicle for lawful protection, and for officers and license holders (§ 30-7-2). A petty misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $500, or both (§ 31-19-1). Carrying a deadly weapon on school premises, with narrow exceptions, is a fourth degree felony (§ 30-7-2.1). NMSA 1978, §§ 30-1-12(B), 30-7-2, 30-7-2.1, 31-19-1 |
| New York | Adults may possess pepper spray in New York for protecting a person or property, and may use it only when physical force would be justified under Penal Law article 35. The law covers a 'self-defense spray device': a pocket sized spray containing tear gas, pepper or a similar disabling agent (§ 265.20(a)(14)(a)). This exemption does not apply to anyone under eighteen, anyone previously convicted in New York of a felony or any assault, or anyone convicted elsewhere of a crime that would be a felony or assault in New York (§ 265.20(a)(14)(b)). Devices must carry a state-required warning label, may be sold only by licensed or authorized dealers, and no more than two self-defense spray devices may be sold at any one time to a single purchaser (§ 265.20(a)(14)(c), (15)). N.Y. Penal Law § 265.20(a)(14)-(15) | New York's weapon-possession law lists an 'electronic dart gun' and an 'electronic stun gun' (Taser-type devices) among the items a person commits criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree by possessing (§ 265.01(1)). Criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 (§§ 70.15, 80.05). N.Y. Penal Law § 265.01(1); §§ 70.15, 80.05 | Possessing 'metal knuckles', 'plastic knuckles' or a 'metal knuckle knife' is criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree in New York (§ 265.01(1)). It is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 (§§ 70.15, 80.05). N.Y. Penal Law § 265.01(1); §§ 70.15, 80.05 |
| North Dakota | Pepper spray and similar self-defense sprays are not treated as dangerous weapons in North Dakota. The weapons title's definition of "dangerous weapon" expressly excludes a spray or aerosol containing CS, CN, or other irritating agent intended for use in the defense of an individual, so the concealed-carry license and the dangerous-weapon bans in the weapons title do not apply to it. The statute sets no size, strength, or age limit for these sprays. N.D.C.C. § 62.1-01-01(1) | Stun guns used for self-defense are not dangerous weapons under North Dakota's weapons title: the definition of "dangerous weapon" excludes a device that uses voltage for the defense of an individual. A device that fires a projectile with voltage (a Taser-type device), or that fires a projectile and can deliver multiple shocks in one incident, is treated as a dangerous weapon for a person who is barred from possessing firearms. Knowingly possessing such a projectile-and-voltage device in the part of a bar set aside for selling and drinking alcohol is an infraction. N.D.C.C. §§ 62.1-01-01(1), 62.1-02-04(1) | Brass knuckles are legal to own in North Dakota but count as a "dangerous weapon" (the definition lists metal knuckles). A dangerous weapon may not be carried concealed without a concealed weapons license (the license-free carry rule covers firearms only), and violating the concealed-weapons chapter is a class A misdemeanor. Dangerous weapons are also barred at schools and school events, churches, and publicly owned or operated buildings (a noncriminal offense with a $100 fee, with listed exceptions), and knowingly having one in the bar area of a liquor establishment is an infraction. N.D.C.C. §§ 62.1-01-01(1), 62.1-04-02, 62.1-04-05, 62.1-02-05, 62.1-02-04 |
| Oklahoma | Not verified yet | Not verified yet | Oklahoma's unlawful-carry law makes it illegal to carry metal knuckles (along with blackjacks, loaded canes, hand chains and other offensive weapons) on or about your person or in a purse or container, whether concealed or not, unless an exception applies (for example, carrying a weapon in a manner otherwise permitted by statute or by the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act). A first conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of $100 to $250, up to 30 days in county jail, or both; a second or later conviction carries a fine of $250 to $500, 30 days to three months in jail, or both. It is also unlawful to sell or give these weapons to a child, and to carry them in an establishment whose primary business is selling alcoholic beverages (with exceptions for officers, owners and permitted employees). College, university and technology center school property has its own rules for metal knuckles. 21 O.S. §§ 1272, 1272.1, 1273, 1276, 1277 |
| Pennsylvania | Not verified yet | Adults in Pennsylvania may possess and use a stun gun or Taser-type device (an "electric or electronic incapacitation device") to use reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property, as long as the device is labeled with or accompanied by clear written instructions on its use and the damages it can cause. It is a crime to use such a device on another person for an unlawful purpose or to possess it intending to do so: a second-degree felony if the person intended to commit a felony, otherwise a first-degree misdemeanor. A person barred from possessing a firearm under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105 may not possess or use one. The offensive-weapons law separately lists stun guns, stun batons and Tasers among offensive weapons, which may not be made, sold, used or possessed "except as authorized by law." 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 908.1(a)-(d), (f); 908(a), (c) | Pennsylvania lists metal knuckles among "offensive weapons". Making, repairing, selling, dealing in, using or possessing an offensive weapon, except as authorized by law, is a misdemeanor of the first degree (up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine). It is a defense if the defendant proves the weapon was possessed solely as a curio or in a dramatic performance, was possessed briefly after finding it or taking it from an aggressor, or under circumstances negating any intent or likelihood of unlawful use. 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 908(a)-(c), 1104 |
| South Carolina | South Carolina's weapons chapter does not mention pepper spray by name, but it does cover tear gas. Only authorized law enforcement officers may generally possess, use, transport, sell or buy tear-gas guns, cartridges, shells or containers, except that anyone may do so for self-defense purposes only, as long as the tear-gas cartridge, shell or container holds no more than fifty cubic centimeters. Violating the tear-gas law is a misdemeanor punishable by up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. S.C. Code § 16-23-470 | Not verified yet | South Carolina has no state law that specifically bans brass knuckles: the weapons chapter does not mention knuckles, and the former concealed-weapons section (§ 16-23-460) was repealed by 2024 Act No. 111, effective March 7, 2024. Carrying on elementary or secondary school property any weapon, device or object that may be used to inflict bodily injury or death is a felony punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to five years in prison, or both (unless it stays secured inside an attended or locked vehicle as the statute describes). S.C. Code Title 16, Ch. 23 (reviewed); § 16-23-430 |
| South Dakota | Not verified yet | South Dakota does not ban owning stun guns, but its criminal code lists a stun gun as a "dangerous weapon" (a stun gun is defined as a battery-powered, pulsed electrical device of high voltage and low or no amperage that can disrupt the central nervous system and cause temporary loss of voluntary muscle control). Because of that, the dangerous-weapon place bans apply: knowingly possessing a dangerous weapon in a county courthouse or the state capitol is a Class 1 misdemeanor (with listed exceptions), and intentionally carrying or possessing a dangerous weapon on public elementary or secondary school premises, vehicles or buildings is a Class 1 misdemeanor (with listed exceptions). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to one year in county jail, a $2,000 fine, or both. SDCL §§ 22-1-2(10), 22-1-2(50), 22-14-23, 13-32-7, 22-6-2 | South Dakota has no state law that specifically bans brass knuckles: the unlawful-use-of-weapons chapter does not mention knuckles. The general definition of "dangerous weapon" covers any device or instrument designed to inflict death or serious bodily harm or likely to do so by the way it is used, and dangerous weapons are banned in county courthouses and the state capitol and on public elementary and secondary school property (each a Class 1 misdemeanor, with listed exceptions). SDCL ch. 22-14 (reviewed); §§ 22-1-2(10), 22-14-23, 13-32-7 |
| Tennessee | Not verified yet | Not verified yet | Tennessee's prohibited-weapons law makes it an offense to intentionally or knowingly possess, manufacture, transport, repair or sell knuckles. Defenses include conduct tied to official duties, licensed weapons dealers and manufacturers, dramatic performances, scientific research and museum displays; it is also an affirmative defense if the person proves the item was kept only as a curio, ornament or keepsake, or was possessed briefly after finding it or taking it from an aggressor. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-1302(a), (b), (c) (secondary source: public copy of the state code; check the official code) |
| Texas | Adults in Texas may carry ordinary pepper spray. The weapons law bans a "chemical dispensing device," but its definition expressly leaves out "a small chemical dispenser sold commercially for personal protection." Possessing, making, selling or transporting a banned (non-personal) chemical dispensing device is a third-degree felony, with a defense for trained security officers. Tex. Penal Code §§ 46.01(14), 46.05(a)(3), (e), (f) | Texas has no state law that specifically bans or requires a permit for stun guns or Tasers. The Penal Code weapons chapter (Chapter 46) does not list stun guns or electronic weapons among prohibited weapons. Tex. Penal Code ch. 46 (reviewed) | Texas has no state law that bans brass knuckles. Knuckles are not on the list of prohibited weapons in the Penal Code's prohibited-weapons section, which covers items such as explosive weapons, machine guns, zip guns, tire deflation devices and non-personal chemical dispensing devices. Tex. Penal Code § 46.05(a); ch. 46 (reviewed) |
| Utah | Utah has no state law that specifically regulates pepper spray. The Weapons chapter does not mention pepper spray or self-defense sprays; it defines a "dangerous weapon" (other than a firearm) as an object that, in the manner of its use or intended use, can cause death or serious bodily injury, judged by factors such as where and how it was used and its primary purpose. Utah Code § 76-11-101(3); Title 76, ch. 11 (reviewed) | Utah has no state law that specifically regulates stun guns or Tasers. The Weapons chapter does not mention stun guns or electronic weapons; whether an object counts as a "dangerous weapon" depends on how it is used or intended to be used and the other factors the statute lists. Utah Code § 76-11-101(3); Title 76, ch. 11 (reviewed) | Utah has no state law that specifically bans brass knuckles. The Weapons chapter does not list knuckles; like other non-firearm objects, they can be treated as a "dangerous weapon" based on how they are used or intended to be used. Utah Code § 76-11-101(3); Title 76, ch. 11 (reviewed) |
| Vermont | Vermont has no state law that specifically regulates pepper spray. The Weapons chapter of the criminal code does not mention pepper spray or chemical self-defense sprays, though carrying any dangerous or deadly weapon with intent to injure another is a separate crime. 13 V.S.A. ch. 85 (reviewed); 13 V.S.A. § 4003 | Vermont has no state law that specifically regulates stun guns or Tasers. The Weapons chapter of the criminal code does not mention stun guns or electronic weapons, though carrying any dangerous or deadly weapon with intent to injure another is a separate crime. 13 V.S.A. ch. 85 (reviewed); 13 V.S.A. § 4003 | In Vermont, using brass knuckles (or a slung shot, blackjack or similar weapon) against another person, or possessing them with intent to use them that way, is punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Making, selling, giving away or keeping brass knuckles for sale or gift is punishable by up to two years, a fine of up to $500, or both. Simply owning brass knuckles without intent to use them against someone is not covered by these sections. 13 V.S.A. §§ 4001, 4002 |
| Virginia | Virginia law does not ban adults from carrying pepper spray for self-defense. The statute that makes it a felony to release tear gas or other noxious gases or chemical mixtures in a home, business or public gathering place (a Class 3 felony if done maliciously and someone is injured, a Class 6 felony if done unlawfully but not maliciously) expressly does not prevent their use "in the protection of person, life or property." Va. Code § 18.2-312 | Adults may generally own stun guns and Tasers in Virginia; the code defines a "stun weapon" as a device emitting an electrical, audible, optical or electromagnetic pulse designed to temporarily incapacitate a person. Knowingly possessing a stun weapon on the property of a child day center or a public, private or religious preschool, elementary, middle or high school, at a school-sponsored event, or on a school bus is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Convicted felons (and certain people adjudicated delinquent as juveniles) may not possess or transport a stun weapon outside their home and its curtilage; violating that ban is a Class 6 felony. Va. Code §§ 18.2-308.1, 18.2-308.2(A) | Virginia does not ban owning metal knuckles, but carrying "metal knucks" hidden from view (concealed) is a Class 1 misdemeanor; a second offense is a Class 6 felony and a third or later offense is a Class 5 felony. The concealed-carry ban does not apply in your own home or its curtilage, at your own place of business, or to listed officials. Metal knuckles are also banned on school property and school buses as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Va. Code §§ 18.2-308(A), (B), (C), 18.2-308.1(A) |
| Washington | Adults in Washington may buy and carry pepper spray, which state law calls a "personal protection spray device" (a commercially available self-defense spray such as tear gas, mace, pepper mace or pepper gas). Anyone under 18 may buy or possess one only if they are at least 14 and have a parent's or guardian's permission; otherwise it is a misdemeanor. Cities, counties and other local governments may not ban eligible people from buying, possessing or lawfully using these sprays in self-defense. RCW 9.91.160 | Washington specifically bans stun guns (including projectile stun guns like Tasers) and other electric-shock weapons on public or private elementary and secondary school grounds, school-provided transportation, and facilities being used by schools or for school board meetings. A first violation is a misdemeanor and later violations are gross misdemeanors. The weapons sections reviewed do not set a general permit requirement for adults to own a stun gun. RCW 9.41.280(1)(f), (2) | In Washington it is a crime to make, sell, dispose of or possess metal knuckles (brass knuckles), along with slungshots, sand clubs and spring-blade knives. A violation is a gross misdemeanor punishable under the state's sentencing chapter. Metal knuckles are also banned on school grounds as a "dangerous weapon." RCW 9.41.250(1)(a); RCW 9.41.280(1)(b) |
| West Virginia | Pepper spray is legal for self-defense in West Virginia. State law defines pepper spray as a temporarily disabling capsicum (OC) aerosol intended for self-defense, and says it is not a "deadly weapon" when used solely for self-defense, so the deadly-weapon rules (including the school-grounds ban) do not apply to it when used that way. W. Va. Code § 61-7-2(5), (12) | Not verified yet | Brass knuckles are legal for most adults in West Virginia. The law defines "metallic or false knuckles" (made of any material) as a "deadly weapon," and any U.S. citizen or legal resident 18 or older who is not barred from possessing firearms may carry a concealed deadly weapon without a license. A person under 18 who is not married or emancipated may not possess or carry any deadly weapon, openly or concealed, and can be adjudicated delinquent. W. Va. Code §§ 61-7-2(5), (10), 61-7-7(c), 61-7-8 |
| Wyoming | Wyoming has no state law that specifically regulates pepper spray. Under Wyoming's general rules, any object counts as a "deadly weapon" if, in the way it is used or intended to be used, it is reasonably capable of causing death or serious bodily injury; possessing, making, selling or carrying a deadly weapon with intent to threaten or injure someone is a felony (up to five years and $1,000). W.S. 6-1-104(a)(iv), 6-8-103; Title 6, ch. 8 (reviewed) | Wyoming has no state law that specifically regulates stun guns or Tasers. Under Wyoming's general rules, any object counts as a "deadly weapon" if, in the way it is used or intended to be used, it is reasonably capable of causing death or serious bodily injury; possessing, making, selling or carrying a deadly weapon with intent to threaten or injure someone is a felony (up to five years and $1,000). W.S. 6-1-104(a)(iv), 6-8-103; Title 6, ch. 8 (reviewed) | Wyoming has no state law that specifically bans brass knuckles. Under Wyoming's general rules, any object counts as a "deadly weapon" if, in the way it is used or intended to be used, it is reasonably capable of causing death or serious bodily injury; possessing, making, selling or carrying a deadly weapon with intent to threaten or injure someone is a felony (up to five years and $1,000). Wearing or carrying a concealed deadly weapon is also a misdemeanor for a first offense unless one of the statute's exceptions applies. W.S. 6-1-104(a)(iv), 6-8-103, 6-8-104(a); Title 6, ch. 8 (reviewed) |
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Last verified against official sources: October 23, 2026.
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