No, brass knuckles are classified as dangerous weapons under Minnesota Statutes § 609.02, Subd. 6, making their possession, manufacture, sale, or transfer a gross misdemeanor. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Minneapolis Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit, further prohibit their use in public spaces. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to reclassify them as prohibited offensive weapons, potentially escalating penalties.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Minnesota
- Possession Prohibition: Minnesota law explicitly bans brass knuckles as “dangerous weapons,” with exceptions solely for law enforcement or licensed collectors under Minnesota Department of Public Safety oversight.
- Local Enforcement: Cities like St. Paul and Duluth impose additional restrictions via municipal codes, mandating immediate confiscation during routine patrols or compliance checks.
- Penalties: Violations trigger gross misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to one year imprisonment and $3,000 fines, with federal implications if transported across state lines.
Minnesota’s regulatory framework aligns with broader trends in the Midwest, where states like Wisconsin and Iowa have adopted stricter definitions of “prohibited weapons.” The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s 2025 firearms trafficking report highlights brass knuckles as a recurring item in illegal street transactions, prompting heightened scrutiny. Consultation with the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office is advised for entities navigating potential 2026 statutory amendments.