No, brass knuckles are illegal in Alaska under AS 11.61.200(a)(1), classified as a “prohibited weapon.” Possession, manufacture, or sale constitutes a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and $10,000 fines. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Anchorage Police Department, actively enforce these provisions, with recent 2026 guidance emphasizing stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Alaska
- Statutory Prohibition: Alaska Statutes § 11.61.200 explicitly bans brass knuckles as “prohibited weapons,” with no exceptions for antique or decorative items.
- Penalty Structure: Violations trigger Class A misdemeanor charges, escalating to felony status if used in commission of another crime per AS 11.61.210.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Juneau and Fairbanks have issued 2026 advisories aligning with state law, mandating mandatory reporting for pawnbrokers and firearms dealers.
The Alaska Department of Public Safety’s 2025 Firearms & Weapons Compliance Bulletin confirms no pending legislation to decriminalize possession, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance stance. Travelers transporting brass knuckles through Alaska must declare them to avoid felony charges under AS 11.61.220.