No, brass knuckles are classified as prohibited weapons under Belgian law, falling under the 2006 Weapons Act and subsequent 2026 amendments tightening restrictions on “edged or impact weapons.” Possession, manufacture, or trade without explicit authorization risks criminal liability, including fines up to €10,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years. The Federal Police and local parquets (public prosecutor’s offices) enforce compliance, particularly in urban centers like Brussels and Antwerp.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Belgium
- Prohibition Status: Brass knuckles are explicitly listed in Annex 1 of the 2006 Weapons Act as a category 4 weapon, barring civilian ownership without a rare special permit from the Ministry of Justice.
- Permit Exceptions: Only licensed collectors or historical reenactors may apply for exemptions, requiring proof of cultural or professional necessity and rigorous background checks by the Federale Politie (Federal Police).
- Enforcement Priorities: Post-2023, authorities prioritize inspections of online marketplaces and flea markets, with 2026 directives mandating digital tracking of prohibited weapon sales via the Système d’Information Schengen.