My little cousin is wanting to try and get brass knuckles and I am trying to find out if they are illegal to even own here in Montana.

I know that it is illegal to threaten someone with them but can you own them?

I think that if they are sold in the state they must be legal to own.

I hope he wants them only for self-defence and not to show off or cause trouble. For self-defence, I would suggest wearing some large rings or carrying a small hard or sharp object. They are just as effective and less likely to get you into legal trouble than brass knuckles.

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Originally Posted by earl237

I hope he wants them only for self-defence and not to show off or cause trouble. For self-defence, I would suggest wearing some large rings or carrying a small hard or sharp object. They are just as effective and less likely to get you into legal trouble than brass knuckles.

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I disagree 100% but am not going to give you a reddie. Using a sharp object on someone *even in self defense cases* can land him in jail for years. Using a sharp object is considered deadly force and is only a defense if it can be PROVEN that his life, limb or eyesight is in jeopardy.

Here is some better advice: teach the kid how to walk away.

I respect your opinion, but remember the old saying, "it is better to be tried by 12 than carried by six". Juries are usually more understanding than judges and few will send someone to jail for self-defence because they know that they could face the same situation someday if they haven't already.

Actively walking around with a sharp object is never a good idea. Walking around with brass knuckles is never a good idea either.

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Originally Posted by earl237

I respect your opinion, but remember the old saying, "it is better to be tried by 12 than carried by six". Juries are usually more understanding than judges and few will send someone to jail for self-defence because they know that they could face the same situation someday if they haven't already.

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Tell that to the 16 year old high school student in Boston in jail for the next 20 years for stabbing the school bully in the throat with a pocket knife because he tried to push him around.

Im just saying... the best conflict resolution is avoiding the conflict in the first place.

Wanted to add one more point here, I would recommend fighting only if absolutely necessary, it is preferable to run away if possible.

Hello:

In terms of the law, preferable is NOT an option. In some states, if you have an escape you MUST take it. If you don't, you can't declare self defense. In other states, like Texas, you have great latitude. You can even shoot a guy in the back who is breaking into a neighbors house, and claim self defense. Maybe Texas SHOULD secede.

excon