No. Brass knuckles are classified as dangerous weapons under Wisconsin Statutes § 941.26, making their possession, manufacture, sale, or transportation illegal without specific exemptions. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Milwaukee Police Department, actively enforce these restrictions, and recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to further tighten penalties for violations.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Wisconsin
- Prohibited Possession: Under § 941.26(2), knowingly carrying brass knuckles constitutes a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 9 months imprisonment and/or $10,000 in fines.
- Exemptions Narrow: Only law enforcement, military personnel in official capacity, or licensed collectors with prior approval from the Wisconsin Department of Justice may possess brass knuckles. Collectors must adhere to § 175.60’s registration requirements.
- Local Enforcement Trends: Municipalities like Madison and Green Bay have augmented state laws with ordinances mandating mandatory forfeiture of brass knuckles upon conviction, aligning with 2026 DOJ guidance on weapon-related offenses.