A knuckle duster is a type of weapon that consists of metal plates or “knuckles” worn on the fingers. These knuckles have variously been given different names, including “daggers”, “knuckle dusters”, and “skeletons”. The origin of the term “brass knuckles” is not clear, but one possible derivation is from the description of how they were made — by punching them out in brass molds.
Another theory suggests that it was derived from folk etymology involving pirates and their use of bladed weapons such as cutlasses. It has also been suggested that they are called “brass knuckles” because of the sound one makes when punching someone wearing them.
History of Brass Knuckles
As a melee weapon, it is used most often to strike a blow and break or dislocate a target’s nose — as the name implies, the recipient’s nose resembles the appearance of a knuckle after such abuse. These knuckles are also sometimes used as weapons to give the fist extra weight for punching through glass and in bar fights.
Some persons have been known to put several pairs on one hand so that it can be used as an effective weapon without losing any contact with an opponent during hand-to-hand combat situations. These weapons were popular during the Prohibition era, when “cocksuckers” and “sleepers” entered the American criminal underworld. These knuckles are available in varying degrees of protection from weapons-grade to neon pink plastic models with rubber covers for women; they can also be customized with intricate designs.
These knuckles are a legal weapon in some jurisdictions but are banned by martial arts organizations such as the United States’ largest self-defense organization, Florida’s Combative Sports Commission. Police and law enforcement argue that brass knuckles increase the risk of injury by allowing the wearer to apply greater force without directly striking or punching an assailant (as opposed to other types of hand weapons that permit direct strikes on an opponent).
The use of knuckles to kill a human in an assault or fight is rare but possible. In the former Soviet Union, brass knuckle-like instruments called “kofuns” (kofun being Russian for “mound”) were a common weapon used by criminals and by the politotdel (Communist Party’s secret service). In Russia these days they are prohibited.
Benefits of Having Brass Knuckles
Brass Knuckles are a weapon typically associated with the criminal underworld, but they have been found in ancient civilizations like those of African empires. Of course, these knuckles are just as popular today as they were then — if not more so.
Knuckles really are a versatile weapon that can be used both for offense and defense. They’re often worn by bouncers at nightclubs and bars to prevent fights from breaking out or to serve as a conspicuous reminder that violence is not tolerated there. They come in many forms — different sizes, weights, and material types — so you can find the one that best suits your needs. Take a look at their major benefits:
