No, brass knuckles are classified as dangerous weapons under Vermont Statutes Title 13, § 4016, making their possession, sale, or use unlawful without explicit authorization. The Vermont Attorney General’s Office enforces these restrictions, and local law enforcement agencies actively monitor compliance, particularly in high-risk areas like Burlington and Rutland.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Vermont
- Prohibition on Possession: Vermont bans the ownership of brass knuckles unless owned prior to 1986, per 13 V.S.A. § 4016(a)(1). Post-1986 acquisition constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by up to two years imprisonment.
- Sale and Transfer Restrictions: Any transaction involving brass knuckles—including gifts or trades—requires a permit from the Vermont Department of Public Safety, which denies applications absent a compelling justification (e.g., historical reenactment).
- Enforcement and Penalties: Violations trigger automatic felony charges under 13 V.S.A. § 4019, with mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenses. Local police departments, such as the Burlington PD, conduct periodic inspections of pawn shops and firearm dealers to curb illegal distribution.
Recent legislative scrutiny in 2025–2026 has expanded the definition of “dangerous weapons” to include modified or disguised brass knuckles, aligning with federal guidelines under the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization. The Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council now mandates annual compliance training for officers on identifying and seizing these items.