No, brass knuckles are not illegal in Indiana. But the thing is, you must be asking this question because the entire matter of brass knuckles is pretty complicated right here in the United States, like some states out there allow them to own, but others have outright banned them. Though in the case of Indiana, you can own them and there will be no consequences, but we can’t say the same when you’re found wearing them in your hands or using them.
So, What’s the Case in Indiana?
It is true that Indiana is one of the very few states where you can own brass knuckles and not get in trouble for just owning them. They’re legal here. It was the old regulation that prohibited them, which was taken out, which implies anyone can purchase, have, or bring brass knuckles without the necessity of a special permit. That’s the positive side of the story. But the thing is, it is still advisable that, should you use them to injure someone or in the commission of a crime, your legal case will be completely different. They will be considered as a lethal weapon, which may result in serious charges. It is alright to have them, it is not okay to use them improperly.
When Can Brass Knuckles Still Cause Trouble in Indiana?
Not a single doubt, while it is lawful to own them, various types of conduct may still get you into trouble with the law. Just for instance, if you use them in a fight, threaten someone with them, or discharge them while you are committing another offense, then the punishments become significantly aggravated.
But it doesn’t mean that you look at the state-wide rule and go for it, instead, you should be checking back with the local rules because there could very well be some cities or areas in the state where you can find slightly more stricter rules regarding all this. That’s a real possibility.
In addition to that, the likes of educational institutions, government buildings, airports, and courthouses do not allow any kind of weapon, even brass knuckles.
How Indiana Compares to Other States
Well, not a single doubt in the fact that Indiana is pretty much on the relaxed side when it comes to the matter. For instance, a number of states, including California, Illinois, and New York, have prohibited the use of brass knuckles entirely. Yup, they’re banned down there! In contrast, states such as Texas, Arizona, and Kentucky permit the use of them in a similar manner as Indiana.
Carrying Brass Knuckles in Public
Brass knuckles are a legal weapon that can be used in self-defense; however, carrying them in public might get you noticed by the police. If the officers believe that you might use them in an unsafe way, they could ask you questions regarding the same. In case someone perceives that you threaten them with the usage of these, that is enough to cause the situation to escalate very fast.
Traveling With Brass Knuckles? Think Again
See, as soon as you enter another state, the regulations can be entirely different. Plain and simple! The states next door having prohibitions will not take into consideration if they were legal in the state you came from, and thus getting apprehended with them can result in criminal charges. That’s how it goes! And if the question is about air travel, then absolutely no, like the TSA does not permit brass knuckles, neither in the checked luggage nor in the carry-on bags. In case of discovery, they will confiscate them on the spot.
