In the past, many Texans have racked up convictions for the use of and/or possession of brass knuckles. Having a conviction like that on your record can close many doors to gainful employment and other opportunities.
But for Texans who want to arm themselves with protection other than a firearm, here’s a bit of good news: For nearly three years, it has been legal to carry and use brass knuckles as a form of self-defense in the Lone Star State.
It is not quite a free pass, however
When the state legislature removed brass knuckles and other similar defensive weapons from the banned list, it did not give the people carte blanche to inflict mayhem on their fellow citizens. Instead, it recognized the knuckles and similar instruments as legitimate alternatives to firearms for self-defense.
In other words, you can both have them and use them – but you better be able to show that it was indeed for self-defense purposes and that you were not the aggressor in the situation.
What are brass knuckles?
The Texas Penal Code defines brass knuckles as “any instrument that consists of finger rings or guards made of a hard substance and that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles.”
The description is quite broad and could be misconstrued by a law enforcement officer. If you find yourself facing illegal weapons charges, you do not have to face justice alone. Learning more about your legal options for a solid defense can turn the legal tide in your favor.