1 Min Summary

“No. Under Canadian federal law, brass knuckles made of metal are strictly prohibited weapons—owning, buying, selling, or even importing them can result in criminal charges, fines, and prison time. Plastic knuckles are not banned, but can still lead to legal trouble depending on how they're used. This article breaks down the law, penalties, and common questions Canadians have about brass knuckles.”

What exactly are brass knuckles?
Brass knuckles are compact metal weapons designed to fit snugly over your fingers, amplifying the force of a punch. Think of them as a set of metal rings with an agenda—built not for fashion, but for damage. Slip them on, make a fist, and suddenly your hand is weaponized.

The confusion starts here.
A lot of people assume brass knuckles fall into some kind of legal grey area. After all, you can find them online, sold as belt buckles or paperweights. Some think they’re allowed if used for self-defence, or if they’re just plastic. Others believe certain provinces permit them. But here’s the truth: brass knuckles are banned across Canada—full stop.

So, why this blog?
Because the laws around weapons in Canada aren’t always clearly understood. This article breaks it down: what brass knuckles are, why they’re banned, the consequences if you're caught with them, and what makes plastic knuckles a slightly different (but still risky) story. Whether you’re curious, concerned, or shopping online—this guide gives you the facts you need.

Legality of Brass Knuckles in Canada: The Hard Facts

Canada’s Criminal Code doesn’t mince words.
Under Section 84(1) of the Canadian Criminal Code, brass knuckles are officially classified as prohibited weapons. That means it is illegal to possess, buy, sell, import, or manufacture them—regardless of who you are or what your intent might be.

What does “prohibited” mean?
It means you don’t get to have them. There are no legal workarounds—no licenses, no collector exemptions, no “but it’s just for display” excuses. Whether you’re caught with them in your car, in your home, or on your belt as a “fashion statement,” you’re facing criminal charges.

This isn’t a regional rule—it’s federal.
The ban on brass knuckles applies nationwide. From British Columbia to Newfoundland, the law is exactly the same. Your local bylaws or provincial differences don’t matter here—federal law takes the lead, and it’s crystal clear: brass knuckles are illegal across all of Canada.

Penalties for Possession or Sale of Brass Knuckles

Canada doesn’t just disapprove—it prosecutes.
Getting caught with brass knuckles isn’t just a slap on the wrist. It can lead to criminal charges under the Criminal Code Section 91(2) . The offense can be treated as either a summary conviction (less serious) or an indictable offence (much more serious), depending on how and where the weapon is found, and whether it's tied to other illegal activity.

How bad can it get?
Penalties range from hefty fines to up to five years in prison. Yes, you read that right. Five years. That’s not just for using them—it’s simply for possessing, importing, or selling them. Think you're being discreet by buying online or bringing a pair home from vacation? Border agents and customs don't play around.

Real-world risks, not just legal theory.
People have been charged at airports, during routine traffic stops, or after home searches for unrelated reasons. A pair of brass knuckles found in your drawer could turn a simple encounter with law enforcement into a criminal record.

There are no exceptions.
Not for collectors. Not for martial arts enthusiasts. Not for antique dealers. The law makes no distinction for intent or context—brass knuckles are illegal in all forms, period.

Metal vs Plastic Brass Knuckles

Metal is the dealbreaker.
The prohibition in Canada is specific: metal knuckles are classified as prohibited weapons. If they’re made of brass, steel, aluminum, or any other metal—they're illegal, full stop.

What about plastic knuckles?
This is where things get murky. Plastic knuckles are not classified as prohibited weapons under the Criminal Code Section 44(a). That means you can technically buy, own, and possess them without automatically breaking the law. But don’t get too comfortable.

Legal, but far from safe.
If you're carrying plastic knuckles in public, and police believe you have them to intimidate, threaten, or harm—you can still be charged. The charges might fall under different categories like possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. And if they’re used in a fight? You're looking at the same level of scrutiny as if they were metal.

Intent matters—a lot.
If plastic knuckles are clearly being used as a weapon, or even appear to be used that way, you can be charged. Context is everything. Walking around with a pair at a protest, carrying them into a nightclub, or using them in a street fight will all land you on the wrong side of the law—even if they're made of hard plastic.

Common Questions About Brass Knuckles

1. Are brass knuckles legal anywhere in Canada?

No. Brass knuckles are illegal across all provinces and territories under federal law. There are no regional exceptions.

2. Can I bring brass knuckles into Canada if I bought them legally elsewhere?

No. Importing brass knuckles—even if purchased legally in another country—is illegal and can result in criminal charges at the border.

3. What happens if I get caught with brass knuckles?

You can be charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, which may lead to fines, criminal records, or up to 5 years in prison, depending on the case.

4. Are plastic knuckles completely legal to carry?

Not exactly. While plastic knuckles aren’t prohibited, using or carrying them in a threatening or dangerous way can still result in criminal charges.

5. Can I keep brass knuckles at home just for display or collecting?

No. Collectors, curators, and hobbyists are not exempt from the law. Possession for any reason is a criminal offence.