Understanding the Legality of Brass Knuckles in Louisiana
When it comes to ensuring the safety and security of our homes, we often think first of the physical structure, the locks on the doors, the windows that shut securely, and all the other home improvements and fixtures designed purely for our security. In the state of Louisiana, however, individuals are not without their crimes of passion or irrational violence. A person intent on causing harm can usually find ways to get around those physical defenses.
One of the most common targets of would-be aggressors is the individual themselves. In the absence of a firearm or other projectile weapon, many people turn to their fists as their first line of defense. But fists can often do more harm than good. In order to punch someone with a bare hand, you need to have full force behind your blow, which means exposing your own hand to the risk of an injury. For this reason, one of the most common safety tools for people are brass knuckles.
Brass knuckles are a hand-held weapon that comes in a variety of forms. One of the most common forms of brass knuckles is the simple four-finger variant. This version features a plate held between the second and third knuckles on the fist and two holes for the fingers, which allow the user to strike an opponent with a non-perforating blow that can disable them without introducing risks to the user. This style of brass knuckles is typically made from metals such as copper, brass, or steel, and is reasonably easy to conceal, making it a popular choice for those looking to assault persons without drawing attention to their weapon. There are other types of brass knuckles such as the plastic, the cane, and the belt, most of which can be worn or concealed and are often made from synthetic materials.
One of the most popular manufacturers of this violent tool is the correctly titled Brass Knuckle, located in Las Vegas, Nevada. Since 1982, this model has been known for its sturdiness and functionality throughout the country. Many other options are available through typical hardware stores or weapons manufacturers.
When it comes to finding the answer to the question “are brass knuckles legal in Louisiana?“, the answer is an uncertain “maybe.” Louisiana makes an exception to the Weapons Control Laws for personal, dwarf, cane, or belt brass knuckles. Louisiana Revised Statute 14:95.1. sets the following conditions on the possession of brass knuckles:
In order for a person to legally possess metal, wooden, or plastic brass knuckles in the state of Louisiana, they must meet the above criteria. Even exceptions exist for cane tips or belts fitted with brass knuckles, provided they are made for legitimate use as a weapon to assist individuals with balance or mobility issues, or for another valid purpose. Louisiana is not the only state with this kind of restriction either. Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Vermont all have similar restrictions on the possession of brass knuckles.
It’s somewhat ironic that an object designed as an aid for fighting designed to provide protection against personal attacks actually requires an individual to take account of the state of their own home. Individuals must ensure that they are legally able to use the weapon before they can even go about getting it. If they fail to serve out the condition, they could face criminal penalties.
On the flip side, individuals who own brass knuckles are generally less likely to have their home security breached in the first place. Studies show that the presence of a gun, knife, or other weapon is enough to dissuade an intruder from entering the home for fear of harm. While the legality of the weapon certainly does not dictate how effective it may be for personal protection, it does make the fortification of the home more likely. Most people make efforts to protect their home when they know that carrying an illegal weapon could increase their chances of getting caught or arrested for purposes unrelated to the intended use of the weapon.
Similar to how this tool requires proper maintenance, so too does the home. The owner of a home must always make sure that their security measures keep up with the growth of security technology. In particular, Louisiana emphasizes the necessity of additional security measures to protect against the influences of hurricanes and floods. Average homes in southern Louisiana are at constant risk for property damage from attached storms and rising water levels. As such, homes require major rehabilitation at least once every six years. Homeowners should plan accordingly in order to protect themselves from threats both natural and man-made. Metal and concrete armoring, reinforced structures, and hurricane protection systems are all necessary for owners in order to fulfill their duty to protect themselves, their home, and their family under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:95.1.