Is Brass Knuckles Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
No — Brass Knuckles are illegal in Mississippi as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: There have been no significant changes to Mississippi's law regarding brass knuckles in the 2023-2026 period.
Quick Answer
Mississippi law prohibits the possession, sale, and manufacture of brass knuckles under Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-1. They are considered a prohibited weapon and possession is unlawful except for law enforcement.
What the Law Says
Mississippi law prohibits carrying a concealed weapon, including brass knuckles, without a permit.
— Mississippi Code Ann. § 97-37-1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Possession | Illegal to possess except for law enforcement. |
| Sale & Purchase | Illegal to sell or manufacture. |
| Penalties | Misdemeanor punishable by fines and/or imprisonment up to 1 year. |
| Age Restriction | None (possession is prohibited regardless of age). |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
There have been no significant changes to Mississippi's law regarding brass knuckles in the 2023-2026 period.
Enforcement Reality
Mississippi law prohibits carrying concealed brass knuckles. Open carry is not explicitly illegal, but any criminal use is a felony.
A common mistake is to assume that because open carry is not illegal, that they can be carried without consequence. Carrying them concealed is a crime, and any use in an assault will be prosecuted as a felony.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Mississippi. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Brass Knuckles in Mississippi
Can You Fly With Brass Knuckles Out of Mississippi?
Since brass knuckles is illegal in Mississippi, bringing it to the airport compounds your legal exposure. You're now dealing with both state law and federal jurisdiction. Don't do it.
Bottom Line
Brass Knuckles are illegal in Mississippi. 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.
Mississippi 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. Mississippi 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.
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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