Banned by Design: Why Trench Knives & Brass Knuckle Handle Blades Are Illegal in Canada
Short Answer:
No, trench knives and brass knuckle handle knives are not legal in Canada. Both fall under the “prohibited weapon” category as defined in the Criminal Code — and yes, that means serious consequences if you’re caught with one.
The Allure — and the Problem
That rugged trench knife from WWI or the tactical brass knuckle knife making rounds on Instagram? Cool in theory, criminal in Canada. These weapons blur the line between utility and intimidation, and lawmakers have taken notice.
Canada has some of the strictest knife laws in the world — and when it comes to any weapon with brass knuckle-style features, the law isn’t just clear, it’s unforgiving.
What Is a Trench Knife?
A trench knife is a throwback to the brutal combat of the First World War. It’s a hybrid weapon: part stabbing tool, part fist-load. The handle usually has metal loops or rings — brass knuckles, essentially — which is where the legal issue lies.
Why It's Illegal
Canadian law prohibits any item “similar to brass knuckles” — including trench knives with that classic knuckle-duster grip. Under Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada, this type of handle makes it a prohibited weapon. No ifs, ands, or loopholes.
Caught with one? You’re looking at potential criminal charges, fines, and even jail time.
What Is a Brass Knuckle Handle Knife?
A brass knuckle handle knife is exactly what it sounds like — a blade with a handle designed for you to slip your fingers through, increasing both grip and striking force. Functionally, it’s a weapon meant for dual use: stab and smash.
Why It's Illegal
Brass knuckles are already banned across Canada. So when a knife incorporates that same handle style? It inherits the same legal fate. These knives are explicitly prohibited, and even owning one for “display” or “collection” doesn’t grant immunity.
Bottom line: if it walks like a brass knuckle, swings like a brass knuckle, and fits on your fingers — it’s banned.
The Law in Black and White
Here’s what Canadian law says — straight from the source:
🔹 Section 84(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada
Defines prohibited weapons to include:
Brass knuckles
Push daggers
Switchblades
Gravity knives
Anything “similar in design or function” to those items
🔹 No Blade-Length Loophole
Unlike other jurisdictions, Canada doesn’t care whether your knife is 2 inches or 12. If it’s designed to resemble a banned weapon — especially brass knuckles — it’s off-limits.
🔹 Intent Also Matters
Even if you own a legal knife, carrying it for self-defence can still land you in trouble. Canadian law frowns on any weapon being carried with intent to use — period.
Penalties for Possession
If you're caught with a trench knife or a brass knuckle handle knife in Canada, here's what you're risking:
Immediate confiscation
Fines that scale into the thousands
Potential jail time
A criminal record that follows you for life
Yes, even if it’s just sitting in your drawer “for display.”
Myths, Busted
❌ “But I bought it online!”
— Importing prohibited weapons is illegal too. Customs can and will seize it.
❌ “It’s just for my display case.”
— The law doesn’t care about your shelf. Possession alone is illegal.
❌ “I won’t use it. I just want to own it.”
— Still illegal. Still criminal. Still a no-go in Canada.
What Can You Carry Instead?
✅ Multitools with blades
✅ Folding knives that don’t open automatically
✅ Fixed blades with standard handles (non-intimidating designs)
⚠️ Caveat: Even legal knives can get you in trouble if carried for self-defense or used to threaten someone. In Canada, intent is everything.
Final Word: It’s Not Worth the Risk
In the end, trench knives and brass knuckle handle knives are more of a legal headache than they’re worth. The law is clear, the consequences are steep, and the alternatives are plentiful. Don’t let a collector’s whim land you in court.
