No, brass knuckles are classified as dangerous weapons under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 134-51, making their possession, manufacture, or sale a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year imprisonment and/or $2,000 in fines. The Honolulu Police Department actively enforces these restrictions, particularly in high-density areas where weapon-related incidents are prevalent. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to further criminalize possession, reflecting heightened public safety concerns.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Hawaii
- Prohibited Possession: HRS § 134-51 explicitly bans brass knuckles, with no exceptions for antique or decorative items unless registered as historical artifacts with the Department of Land and Natural Resources.
- Enhanced Penalties: Violations involving brass knuckles during a felony offense trigger mandatory sentencing enhancements under HRS § 706-660, increasing potential prison terms by up to 10 years.
- Local Ordinances: County-level regulations, such as Honolulu’s Bill 23 (2025), impose additional permitting requirements for self-defense tools, though brass knuckles remain categorically excluded from eligibility.