Is Brass Knuckles Legal in South Dakota? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in South Dakota as of 2026.
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Quick Answer
In South Dakota, brass knuckles are classified as a dangerous weapon and are illegal to possess or carry. Under SDCL § 22-14-9, possession or sale of brass knuckles is prohibited except for law enforcement or military use.
What the Law Says
South Dakota law prohibits carrying a concealed dangerous weapon, including brass knuckles.
— South Dakota Codified Laws § 22-14-9
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for law enforcement or military personnel. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or purchase. |
| Penalties | Class 1 misdemeanor; penalties may include fines and imprisonment up to one year. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession itself is prohibited). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Enforcement Reality
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across South Dakota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in South Dakota. 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.
South Dakota 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. South Dakota 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 South Dakota?
What are the penalties for carrying brass knuckles in South Dakota?
What typically triggers enforcement in South Dakota?
What is the age restriction for carrying brass knuckles in South Dakota?
Does the law on carrying brass knuckles change at the South Dakota 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.
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Brass Knuckles in Other States
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