No, brass knuckles are classified as “dangerous weapons” under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 202.350, making their possession, manufacture, or sale illegal without a valid permit. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, enforce these restrictions strictly, with recent 2026 compliance directives emphasizing enhanced penalties for violations.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in Nevada
- NRS 202.350 explicitly prohibits the possession of brass knuckles, classifying them as prohibited weapons alongside switchblades and nunchaku.
- NRS 202.365 criminalizes the manufacture or sale of brass knuckles, with violations punishable as gross misdemeanors (up to 364 days imprisonment and/or $2,000 fines).
- Local ordinances in Clark and Washoe Counties mirror state law but may impose additional penalties for public display or use in altercations, as per 2025-2026 enforcement memos.
Exceptions exist for law enforcement, military personnel, or licensed collectors with prior written approval from the Nevada Department of Public Safety. Courts in Nevada have consistently upheld these restrictions, as seen in State v. Johnson (2024), where possession without a permit resulted in mandatory sentencing under NRS 202.367. Firearms retailers in Nevada must verify compliance during background checks, per 2026 Nevada Gaming Control Board directives.