No, brass knuckles are classified as illegal weapons under New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) 2C:39-5d, prohibiting possession without a valid permit. The state’s strict weapons laws, enforced by the New Jersey State Police Firearms Investigation Unit, treat them as “destructive devices,” subject to confiscation and potential felony charges. Local municipalities, such as Newark and Jersey City, have further restricted their sale and transfer through ordinances, aligning with the 2026 statewide compliance framework aimed at curbing firearm-adjacent violence.
Key Regulations for Brass Knuckles in New Jersey
- Prohibited Possession: N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d explicitly bans brass knuckles as “other dangerous weapons,” with no exceptions for antique or ornamental use.
- Permit Requirements: Only law enforcement or individuals with a valid permit under N.J.S.A. 2C:58-4 may possess them, requiring background checks and local approval.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Trenton and Camden have enacted supplementary ordinances, mandating additional inspections and penalties for violations.