Is Brass Knuckles Legal in Hawaii? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in Hawaii as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: A significant legal shift occurred in 2023, legalizing the open carry of brass knuckles and other non-firearm weapons. This was a direct result of the Teter v. Lopez court case.
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Quick Answer
In Hawaii, brass knuckles are classified as prohibited weapons under Hawaii Revised Statutes §134-1. Possession, sale, or manufacture of brass knuckles is illegal except for law enforcement or military use.
What the Law Says
Hawaii law prohibits the possession, manufacture, sale, or transfer of brass knuckles.
— Hawaii Revised Statutes §134-1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for authorized personnel (law enforcement, military). |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or transfer to civilians. |
| Penalties | Class C felony with potential imprisonment and fines. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession itself is prohibited). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A significant legal shift occurred in 2023, legalizing the open carry of brass knuckles and other non-firearm weapons. This was a direct result of the Teter v. Lopez court case.
Enforcement Reality
Following a 2023 court ruling, open carry of brass knuckles is now legal in Hawaii. However, using them to commit a crime remains a felony.
A common mistake is to assume all restrictions are lifted. While open carry is legal, concealed carry is still prohibited, and any criminal use carries severe penalties.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Hawaii. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in Hawaii. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Hawaii vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying brass knuckles is fully legal in 2 states, restricted in 8, and illegal in 40. Hawaii falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Body Armor Laws Guide
This topic is closely related to body armor and self-defense laws.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to carry Brass Knuckles in Hawaii?
What are the penalties for carrying brass knuckles in Hawaii?
How strictly does Hawaii enforce its brass knuckles laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Hawaii?
What is the age restriction for carrying brass knuckles in Hawaii?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Hawaii Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Hawaii — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
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Brass Knuckles in Other States
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