No, brass knuckles are classified as dangerous weapons under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 269, Section 10, making their possession, sale, or use illegal without specific authorization. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Boston Police Department, actively enforce these restrictions, and recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to further tighten penalties for prohibited weapons.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Massachusetts
- Prohibited Possession: MGL Ch. 269, §10 explicitly bans brass knuckles, with violations punishable by up to 2.5 years in jail and fines up to $1,000.
- No Exceptions for Antiques: Even historical or ornamental brass knuckles fall under the ban unless registered as museum pieces with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
- Enforcement by Local Authorities: Municipal police departments, such as those in Worcester and Springfield, conduct periodic compliance checks in conjunction with state ATF task forces.
Massachusetts distinguishes brass knuckles from other weapons by their classification as “per se dangerous,” meaning their mere possession triggers legal consequences. The state’s strict stance aligns with its broader prohibition on concealed or offensive weapons under MGL Ch. 140, §122. Federal law (18 U.S.C. §930) also intersects with state enforcement, particularly in cases involving interstate transport. Consultation with the Massachusetts Department of Firearms Licensing and Permits is advised for any ambiguous scenarios.