UK Law on Knuckle Dusters: Classification as Offensive Weapons

In the United Kingdom, knuckle dusters (brass knuckles) are classified as offensive weapons under the Prevention of Crime Act 1953 and the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

Legal Prohibitions

• Possession in public without lawful authority or reasonable excuse is illegal.
• This includes concealed, modified, or disguised versions.
• Manufacture, sale, hire, and import are also prohibited.

Penalties

Maximum sentence: up to 4 years' imprisonment for possession of an offensive weapon.

Exceptions are extremely narrow (e.g., historical collections with proper certification). Carrying for self-defense is not a valid excuse.