Is Brass Knuckles Legal in Montana? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in Montana as of 2026.
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Quick Answer
Montana prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of brass knuckles under Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-331. They are considered prohibited weapons except for law enforcement or military use.
What the Law Says
Montana law does not prohibit the possession of brass knuckles.
— Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-331
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for authorized persons. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture. |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor punishable by fines and/or imprisonment up to 6 months. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession is prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The law that previously banned switchblades (MCA 45-8-331) was repealed, but this did not directly impact the legal status of brass knuckles. Montana has also moved to permitless carry for firearms, but this does not apply to other weapons.
Enforcement Reality
Montana law does not explicitly prohibit the possession of brass knuckles. However, carrying them concealed may be illegal, and any criminal use would be prosecuted as assault with a weapon.
A common mistake is to assume that because there is no explicit ban, they are completely unregulated. The law on concealed weapons is broad and could be interpreted to include brass knuckles.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Montana. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in Montana. 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.
Montana 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. Montana falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Brass Knuckles:
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 Montana?
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How strictly does Montana enforce its brass knuckles laws?
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Does the law on carrying brass knuckles change at the Montana border?
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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 Montana Legal Guides
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Brass Knuckles in Other States
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