No, brass knuckles are classified as “prohibited weapons” under Nebraska Revised Statute § 28-1202(1)(d), making their possession, manufacture, or sale a Class III felony. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Omaha Police Department’s Firearms Unit, actively enforce these restrictions. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to expand penalties for concealed carry of such items in urban areas.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Nebraska
- Statutory Prohibition: Nebraska law explicitly bans brass knuckles as “dangerous weapons,” punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment under § 28-1205(1).
- Local Enforcement: Municipal ordinances, such as Lincoln’s Municipal Code § 9.52.030, mirror state restrictions, with additional fines for possession in public spaces.
- Exemptions: Law enforcement, military personnel, and licensed collectors (with prior approval from the Nebraska State Patrol) may possess brass knuckles under strict permitting conditions.
Violations trigger mandatory sentencing guidelines, with aggravating factors (e.g., prior felony convictions) increasing penalties. The Nebraska Crime Commission’s 2025 compliance report highlights a 15% rise in weapons-related arrests, underscoring heightened scrutiny. Consult the NSP’s Firearms Registration Division for pre-purchase legal verification.